Can't say enough positive things about Sylvan Rocks. Prompt communication, professional, super safety-focused, engaging, fun and easygoing. My only small criticism was that they could have taken a bit more time to ask about our climbing skills, but I would still recommend them as highly as possible.
We booked a lesson and guided climb on our recent trip to the Black Hills, and LOVED it. I'm a solo dad with three kids (14,12,7) with almost no climbing experience. Our guide, Chris, was exceptional in keeping things on a very beginner level for us, but giving the kids a ton of confidence in what they were doing on the climb (Chris mentioned he's been doing this for 21 years!). On the way home my 12-year-old daughter was literally checking out where she can get into rock climbing in the Twin Cities, she enjoyed it so much. Plus, we climbed at Sylvan Lake, which is an incredibly beautiful setting. Booking was easy. Pricing was very reasonable for a half-day experience, and I mean... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ everything in the Black Hills is "tourist pricing," so if you're going to penny pinch, maybe don't come to the Black Hills. Could not have been happier with the experience, and we will definitely be back.
Our climbing outing with Sylvan Rocks was unforgettable! My husband and I did an 8-hour guided tour with Brandon--who was VERY knowledgeable. He designed the day specifically for us: bringing us to routes that fit our needs and ability levels. We climbed a variety of routes that ranged in difficulty, including a multi-pitch climb. It was clear Brandon took safety seriously, so we felt comfortable the entire time. What a wonderful way to see the Black Hills! For context, we had some experience climbing in a gym before our trip and typically climb 5.9-5.10 routes. The climbing in the Black Hills was challenging and fun!
