What to pack for your South Dakota climbing vacation

The Black Hills forest climbing season, usually mid-April through mid-October, generally has very pleasant weather.  Obviously you should dress for the season, and remember the climbing areas are generally cooler and windier than normal local forecasts may imply.  Sunscreen, SPF lip balm and sunglasses are highly recommended as the sun is quite intense at this elevation. We'll be over a mile high in Custer Park.

To be prepared for possible inclement weather a wind shirt or rain jacket and a warm pullover or fleece are handy... especially if it rains, then hails, then drops the temperature 15 degrees (which can happen on any given sunny summer day here in the Black Hills).  Pay attention to garment fabrics when looking for waterproof jackets...many are only water resistant and you will eventually get soaked.  Even if it is sunny and 70 when you leave the lodge, bring extra clothes on your South Dakota tours!  The weather can quickly change.

Normally though comfortable pants, t-shirts, and sweatshirts work well for summer climbing outdoors.  In the spring and fall it is wise to have polypro tops and bottoms (long underwear) as well as a warm hat and light gloves.  Wear comfortable sturdy shoes (heavy hiking boots are not necessary) but no sandals.  Pick footwear that is made for scrambling over uneven terrain.

Cameras are also great to have along on a climb.  Digital pics are great to share with friends and the Black Hills Forest summits and scenery are truly spectacular.  Rock is hard and good cameras are expensive and fragile so we recommend disposable plastic cameras (especially the panoramic ones) if you are worried about climbing with your camera.  Rigging them with a small loop of cord allows you to clip them to your harness so they're accessible.  For Discover Climbing courses, regular cameras will be just fine.

Feel free to bring your own climbing equipment; if we consider it unacceptable, we may insist you use ours.  Climbing gear is included for all classes at no extra charge: shoes, helmet, harness, pack and necessary hardware.

Bring at least 1.5 liters of water in a personal, plastic water bottle or hydration bag.  Recycled plastic soda bottles re-filled with water work great. Due to our dry climate and the energy expended while climbing, remaining hydrated is very important.  Bring a good sack lunch and some snacks to graze on throughout the day.  Food that can stand up to a squishing fares best.  Energy bars make excellent climbing grub.

 Check List:

• sunscreen & sunglasses
• rain jacket
• long sleeved fleece/pullover
• comfortable, sturdy shoes
• water in plastic bottles
• lunch and snacks
• camera
• personal climbing gear/shoes (optional)