Black Hills Rock Climbing Adventures

5 stars

My son and I did an introductory climbing day a couple of years ago with Sylvan Rocks. That day made my son fall in love with climbing. Last week, we returned for a three-day climbing session, and it was even better than the first. Our guide Shankar gave us three amazing days that culminated in my son's ascent of Spires 2 and 3 of the Cathedral Spires in Custer State Park. He was patient, good-humored, and laser-focused on safety while dealing both with my beginner's mistakes, and with my son's need for technical training. While he pushed me to stretch my limits, there was never any point at which I felt it was inappropriate. And, we got to the top of the "Aquarium." On top of all that, Shankar's just a really cool guy. I feel that we got more than our money's worth out of this experience, and we will be back to climb again with Sylvan Rocks.

5 stars

My family took Sylvan's beginning rock climbing class and I would recommend it 100%! We have an 11 and 14 year old and my husband and I felt assured that safety was Sylvan's priority. Our instructor, Ryan did a terrific job explaining techniques at an understandable pace and was very patient. He made sure we mastered each progression before moving on so we didn't feel rushed into the next level. We were all confidently climbing 50 feet by the end of our class. You couldn't ask for a more picturesque, safe, well-organized, and fun experience for the whole family. Thanks, Ryan and Sylvan Climbing School!

5 stars

Our first "outdoor" climbing adventure - Custer State Park in the Black Hills. Brandon matched us to routes that were challenging but not so difficult we couldn't finish. His knowledge of the sport and the area are second to none. We summited 4 routes - and I was even able to "try" a 5th route graded at 5.11 a/b that was awesome. We are planning on returning next summer - hopefully with a few friends from our indoor gym. Haven and I recommend Sylvan Rocks without question!