Rock Climbing

Sites by Program

Rock Climbing

Our climbing program introduces students to this challenging and exciting life-long sport.

Challenge and initiative games complement the Naturalists at Large rock climbing instruction. Taken together as a whole, the three activities foster greater group interaction.

The cornerstone to our climbing program is an organized "ground school" where the techniques of climbing are introduced.

Climbing on Naturalists at Large trips is a success-oriented challenge activity.

In addition to learning safe climbing techniques, students learn to work together toward a common goal.

Trust in fellow students, cooperation, greater ability to focus and increased self-esteem are the lessons learned at Naturalists at Large climbing programs. Our climbing programs are focused on a safe, yet challenging experience. The pre-activity of "ground school" and the climbing sites are designed with this philosophy in mind.

Our primary objective is a safe and positive rock-climbing experience.

Pinnacles National Monument — Challenging climbing in the coast range. Students stay in tents in a National Park Service campground with pool and showers. It's a one- to two-mile walk or van shuttle to the climbing sites. Suitable for middle school ages and up. For more information on Pinnacles National Monument, please read about our outdoor learning program sites.

Whitsett, Southern Sierra — Various climbing options are in the vicinity; most involve a one- or two-mile walk, with some shorter climbs nearby. Dome Rock offers superb southern Sierra climbing opportunities. In-season lake-swimming is an option. For more information on Whitsett, please read about our outdoor learning program sites.

Joshua Tree National Park — offers numerous climbing options with basic camping facilities. Great access for all southern California schools. For more information on Joshua Tree National Park, please read about our deserts sites.