How to Plan Your First Outdoor Climbing Trip: 5 Essential Steps

Heading outside for the first time is exciting — and a little intimidating. The rock feels different, the routes are longer, and there’s no front desk to ask about conditions. I remember my first trip outdoors: I packed way too much, hiked to the wrong crag, and ended up climbing two easy routes all day. Fun? Yes. Efficient? Not really.

If you’re new to outdoor climbing, planning ahead will help you avoid those mistakes and get the most out of your day. Here are five steps I wish someone had told me before I left the gym and clipped my first bolts outside.

Step 1: Pick the Right Zone

Not all crags are beginner-friendly. Look for areas with a good spread of grades in your group's ability level, short approaches, and safe landings or well-bolted sport routes. Avoid cliffs that only have hard projects or sketchy trad climbs unless you’re going with a mentor.

If it's your first time visiting the area, it's a good idea to purchase a guidebook from your local climbing shop. Not only do they contain all of the information you need in one place (remember, cell service might be limited at the crag), they are also a great way to support local developers. Sometimes, proceeds from the guidebook even go towards helping conserve the crag. Apps like Mountain Project and 27 Crags can also be helpful resources.

Step 2: Dial in the Logistics

Outdoor climbing trips aren’t just about the climbing. Think through the basics:

• Budget for gas, food, and maybe a crash pad rental.

• Accommodation — campgrounds, a cheap hostel, or maybe car camping if it’s allowed. Make sure to check local guidelines before camping outside of established campgrounds.

• Approach — a 30-minute hike with a heavy pack feels a lot longer than it sounds.

• Beta — bring a guidebook or offline app; don’t rely on cell service.

Good logistics = more time climbing, less time wandering lost with heavy gear.

Step 3: Check Weather and Conditions

Outdoors, conditions matter. That slab you’re psyched on? Impossible if it’s wet. That sunny wall? Miserable in July. Always check the forecast, sun/shade, and seasonal closures. Spring melt, summer heat, or winter storms can change the plan fast.

If it's too early to see a forecast, check the average temperature for the area during the time of year you're planning on going.  

Pro move: Bring a layer and a headlamp even if you think you won’t need them. You will, eventually.

Step 4: Plan for Safety and Respect Access

Safety is more complex than simply throwing your gym bag in the car. Climbing outside is inherently more dangerous than indoor climbing – wear a helmet, bring a first aid kit, and know your systems (belaying, anchors, spotting). Don't be ashamed to back off of a route or boulder if it feels sketchy or above your limit – it's better to regroup and come back with more experience or more protection. Always tell someone where you’re going.

Equally important: respect access. Some crags are on private land, others have seasonal closures for nesting raptors. Pack out your trash, brush tick marks, and follow Leave No Trace. The more we respect the rock, the longer we’ll get to climb on it. Especially if it's your first time climbing in the area, ask experienced climbers about the crag's etiquette.

Possible ethical considerations include:

• Is it possible to climb after rain? In most sandstone areas, you need to wait a couple of days. 
• Can I bring my dog? In some areas, animals are not allowed, and in all areas, they can be an annoyance or hazard to other climbers if not well-trained. 
• Is it ok to play music? ALWAYS ask for other climbers' permission before blasting your tunes. 

Step 5: Pick Your Goals

This is the fun part! Going outside isn’t just about chasing grades. Decide what kind of day you want:

• Mileage on easy routes?

• Trying your first outdoor lead?

• Working on a project?

• Just hanging out with friends in a beautiful spot?

Setting goals makes the trip feel intentional — and it keeps expectations realistic. Remember, sending outside often feels harder than in the gym. That’s normal.

After you set your goal, decide what you need to do to make it a reality. Training in the gym? Watching beta videos? Getting more comfortable lead climbing? Packing the best crag snacks? All of these can help you have a better experience. 

Final Thoughts

Your first outdoor climbing trip won’t be perfect — and that’s part of the fun. What matters is that you’re safe, respectful, and open to the experience. With the right planning, you’ll come home tired, happy, and ready for the next adventure.

Save this guide, share it with your climbing partners, and start planning your first outdoor send! And stay tuned for more guides like this, for both experienced and new climbers alike.

 

Beginner Outdoor Climbing FAQ

Do I need a helmet for outdoor climbing?
Yes. Unlike the gym, rock outdoors can break, and people above you can knock things down. A helmet is one of the simplest ways to keep yourself safe.

How is outdoor climbing different from climbing in the gym?
Outdoors, the routes aren’t color-coded, the rock can be sharp or dirty, and bolts or anchors might be spaced farther apart than you expect. Expect the grades to feel harder, and plan to spend more time finding routes and setting up.

Do I need special gear for my first outdoor climbing trip?
At minimum: harness, shoes, chalk, helmet, and whatever’s needed for the style of climbing (rope and draws for sport, crash pad for bouldering). A guidebook or app is just as essential — knowing where to go is half the battle.

Can I go outdoor climbing without an experienced partner?
It’s best not to. If you’ve only climbed indoors, find a mentor, hire a guide, or join a local climbing club. Outdoor systems (anchors, belays, spotting) require extra knowledge that the gym doesn’t teach.

What if the weather looks bad?
Don’t push it. Wet rock can break, and sandstone especially is fragile when damp. Be flexible — choose another zone, switch to a hiking day, or reschedule. The rock will still be there.