Black Canyon

Rock Climbing

“The Black” as it is known colloquially has long stood as a bastion of traditional climbing ethics and held an intimidating allure to those climbers wishing to test their mettle on its steep and foreboding walls. Most climbers know The Black for its long and committing routes and awe-inspiring setting where the fastest way out is to go up. It’s a fantastic venue for building speed and efficiency for those who have aspirations to travel to places like the Alaska Range. While The Black hosts countless high quality and adventurous routes for experienced climbers to enjoy, for more intermediate-level climbers, a handful of classic routes in the 5.8-5.9 range exist and are excellent outings. However, The Black truly shines in the grades 5.10 and above. Once you’ve climbed with us and honed your skills in the Moab area or Unaweep Canyon, come join us to test yourself in one of the truly great climbing venues of The West!

Prerequisites:

  • Comfortable following 5.9 crack and face climbing

  • Experience with multipitch rock climbing

Pricing:

$600pp per day for 1:1

$400pp per day for 2:1

Some of our favorite Black Canyon classics:

  • Casual Route 5.8+, 8 pitches

  • Maiden Voyage 5.9, 5 pitches

  • Escape Artist 5.10a, 7 pitches

  • Comic Relief 5.10, 8 pitches

  • Russian Arete 5.9+, 10 pitches

  • Scenic Cruise 5.10d, 13 pitches

  • Astrodog 5.11+, 14 pitches

  • Many more…

Western Climbing Guides operates under a Commercial Use Authorization within the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.