This was such a great experience! Great place to learn the ropes. They teach you proper climbing techniques and Much more! Good for all ages and well worth the price. The employees are also friendly and resourceful.
Black Hills Rock Climbing Adventures
On our recent trip to South Dakota my wife and I decided we wanted to learn the basics of rock climbing. We found a great place in Custer called Sylvan Rocks and booked our event via the internet. We chose the 6 hour adventure in Custer State Park. On the web form, I also filled in what we wanted to learn and our expectations. The day of our climb we arrived at the shop and were immediately greeted by smiling staff members. Sylvan provides everything you need but we already had our climbing harnesses and shoes. We met our guide, Brandon. He inspected our harnesses, confirmed our expectations, and off we went to the park. If you do not have a pass for the park you will need to get one before entering. Check out the park earlier in the week and get your pass so you can get right to the climbing sites. My wife and I each grabbed a rope bag, our helmets and gear, then followed Brandon to the climbing sites. First thing you need to know, if you are going to learn to climb or climb with a guide, go with someone who is certified. Earlier in life I was a certified dive instructor. As with diving, climbing certifications are critical. All of the guides at Sylvan are certified. Enough said. Brandon was extremely professional. He took the time to listen to our desires and then implemented our requirements on the wall. We received instruction on the ground prior to beginning our first climb and then before we knew it, we had climbed a 40 and 60 foot pitch. After additional training and a snack break, we climbed a 155 foot pitch. More instruction and we were top roping together. I cannot tell you how much we enjoyed our time with Brandon. He is an incredible teacher. His background as the co-owner of the shop and his life and living on the wall is very heartwarming. Upon returning to the shop, we were again greeted by staff who ask us how our adventure went. One thing you need to know about the store, if you need anything for climbing, they have it in the shop. And not only for climbing, but other sports as well. Brandon had some extra time so we hung out on the front porch of the shop for a little while and had a few snacks before we left for the day. Totally fun, extremely professional, highly recommend, we will be back.
We had such an amazing time! Brandon was our guide and he was incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and personable! My husband and I went for the 6 hr climb package and it was everything that we hoped it would be! We were challenged and exhilarated, yet felt very safe the entire time! We are novice climbers and Brandon invested the time to teach us basic climbing skills-which we greatly appreciated. He was amazing at gauging our comfort level and providing us with climbs that were a great fit for us with amazing views! We can’t say enough great things about Brandon at Sylvan Rocks and we can’t wait to bring our kids back to experience the challenge and fun that climbing provides! This package is an amazing value for the investment! Climb on! : ).
