Frequently asked questions
How Fit Do I Need To Be To Climb?
Rock Climbing is a great activity for people of all fitness levels. People often think that if they can’t do a pull-up, they can’t rock climb. While climbing is a full-body workout, it’s actually more about using your feet and legs, than your arms and fingers. It also involves some problem-solving skills, so it engages the mind as well!
You’ll learn different climbing techniques throughout the day and your guide will choose climbs appropriate for each individual’s skill and fitness level.
Is Rock Climbing A Good Activity For The Whole Family?
Absolutely! Rock Climbing can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, making it the perfect adventure for the whole family to share. You’ll learn team work, good communication skills, and gain confidence as you work together to reach new heights!
What Is The Minimum Age To Participate?
Climbing is a great activity for kids. We welcome children 8 years and older to participate in private and group climbing trips. For children 10 years and up, be sure to check out our Rock Climbing Summer Camps in July.
If I Book A Class For My Kids, Can I Go Along To Watch And Take Pictures?
Yes. You are welcome to come along to watch and take pictures. However, we do require everyone, even spectators, to sign a waiver prior to departure and to wear a helmet while at the base of an active climbing site.
Can You Accommodate Large Groups?
Yes. We work on a 6:1 guide-to-client ratio, so let us know in advance if you have more than 6 people in your group, so we can schedule the appropriate number of guides for your trip.
Do I Need To Have My Own Equipment?
No. We provide all of the technical equipment needed for your trip.
For Rock Climbing, this includes helmets, harnesses, and rock climbing shoes.
For Ice Climbing, this includes mountain boots, crampons, helmets, harnesses, and ice tools.
If you have your own gear, you are welcome to bring it along. (Your guide will need to inspect any personal gear prior to departure.)
How Far Will We Have To Hike?
Most of the climbing sites we visit on half-day or full-day climbing trips are within a 15 to 30 minute hike from our meeting spot. That said, some parts of the trail may be steep and rocky, so you’ll want to wear close-toed, supportive sneakers or hiking shoes with good traction. Flip-flops and crocs are not recommended.
What If There Is Rain Or Bad Weather?
In the event that your trip is canceled due to rain or bad weather, you will have the option to reschedule for a different day, within the same climbing season.
Where and When Do We Meet?
Camden Hills Climbing Trips:
Barrett’s Cove Public Beach
104 Beaucaire Ave, Camden Maine, 04843
Morning Half-Day Trips (4 hours): 8:00 am
Afternoon Half-Day Trips (4 hours): 1:00 pm
Full Day Trips (8 hours): 8:00 am
Rock Climbing Summer Camps
Barrett’s Cove Public Beach
104 Beaucaire Ave, Camden Maine, 04843
Drop Off: 9:00 am
Pick Up: 4:00 pm
Acadia National Park Trips
Hulls cove visitors center
25 Visitor Center Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Graphton Notch
Moose Caves
ME-26, Newry, ME 04261
Morning Half-Day Trips (4 hours): 8:00 am
Afternoon Half-Day Trips (4 hours): 1:00 pm
Full Day Trips (8 hours): 8:00 am
Are The Park Entrance Fees Included In The Cost Of The Trip?
Climbing permit fees for Acadia National Park are included in the cost of your trip, however, you will need to purchase a vehicle pass. We highly recommend purchasing and printing your vehicle pass in advance, so you can head straight to your meeting spot. .
There are no fees to visit or climb in Camden Hills State Park.
Should I Tip My Guide?
As a service based industry, tipping your guide is a great way to show your appreciation. They’ll work hard to help you achieve your goals for the day and make sure that you have a fun and memorable climbing experience. If you enjoy your time with them, you are welcome to tip your guide whatever you feel is appropriate.
What Should I Bring For A Day Of Rock Climbing?
You’ll want to wear weather-appropriate clothing depending on the season. It’s a good idea to dress in layers and bring along a light rain jacket just in case.
Loose fitting, or stretchy athletic attire works well. In warmer weather, some people prefer to wear shorts, though this will leave your knees and shins exposed to possible scrapes and bumps on the rock. Capris or three-quarter length pants will offer a bit more protection.
The rock climbing shoes we provide are designed to be worn only while you’re actually climbing. You’ll want to wear close-toed, supportive sneakers or hiking shoes with good traction for hinking in and when you’re belaying or resting between climbs.
Here is a list of some other personal items you’ll want to bring along.
Water (2 liters)
A sac lunch for full-day trips/plenty of hearty snacks
Bug repellent
Sunscreen
Camera or phone to take pictures (do it for the gram)
A backpack large enough to carry your personal items as well as your harness, helmet, and climbing shoes. (You’ll want your hands free while hiking)
What Should I Bring For A Day Of Ice Climbing?
Proper clothing will make or break your day of ice climbing. You’ll most likely be quite warm while you’re actively climbing, but when you’re belaying or taking a break between climbs it can get cold fast, so be sure to layer up.
Base layer: Midweight synthetic or merino wool long underwear. Avoid cotton at all costs!
Mid Layer: Light to midweight fleece or thin synthetic down jacket.
Outer Layer: Hard of soft shell jacket and pants. They should be waterproof, windproof or resistant, and easy to move around in. When choosing a jacket, make sure the hood has enough room to go over your helmet.
Head and hands: A lightweight beanie that you can wear under your helmet, along with a buff will keep your head and neck warm. You’ll want a pair of lightweight, waterproof gloves that allow for dexterity and a good grip while you’re climbing. Bring along a pair of cozy mittens or gloves to keep those digits warm in between climbs.
Feet: Your ice climbing boots will provide a good amount of insulation for your feet, however, you’ll still want a pair of warm socks. Like with your base layer, stick to synthetic or wool, and avoid cotton. The thickness should be based on how cold your feet get and personal preference, but midweight hiking crew socks with a bit of padding tend to work well for most people.
In addition to your clothing considerations, here are some other things to bring along for your day of ice climbing.
Water (2 liters)
A thermos of hot tea or coffee
A sac lunch for full-day trips/plenty of hearty snacks
Handwarmers
Sunscreen
Camera or phone to take pictures (do it for the gram)
A backpack large enough to carry your personal items as well as your harness, helmet, and climbing shoes. (You’ll want your hands free while hiking)
