Black Hills Rock Climbing Adventures

5 stars

My 8 year old daughter and I had never been climbing before and we’re looking for a fun challenge. I was a little apprehensive about this because I wanted to help my daughter overcome her fear of heights and also have a good time. The whole experience was first class from start to finish. Jeff, the co-owner, was friendly, easy to get ahold of, patiently answered my many questions, and was even flexible with a last minute schedule change. He was also great with kids! Ryan and Chris were our guides over two days and both went above and beyond to make sure we had a good experience. Every step of the way, they thoroughly followed safety precautions which made our first time climbing much more enjoyable. They also were great with kids and pleasant to work with. It was rewarding as a parent to see our child build confidence! All in all, our first experience was excellent and my daughter and I have now found a new hobby we can enjoy together. I would highly recommend Sylvan Rocks Climbing to any parent looking to enjoy the outdoors with their kids or anyone looking for a new challenge. Thank you Sylvan for a great time!

5 stars

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.

5 stars

As a group of a 7 y/o who proved to be a bit afraid of climbing very high, an adult female who was afraid of heights, and 2 adult males (with slightly varying fitness abilities), all 4 of us had a great time. Our guide Brandon was extremely patient and able to challenge all of us and make us all feel like we really accomplished something! The area we climbed was challenging enough without being too challenging, and offered great views. None of us had ever rock climbed on real rocks before, but yet we felt extremely safe the whole time. As a company, they were extremely flexible with us making a last minute reservation. This is easily my number 1 suggestion for a thing to do while in the area!