Red Rocks Climbing Guidebooks
Red Rocks is a world-renowned climbing destination, and there are several excellent guidebooks available to help you plan your trip and navigate the area’s diverse routes. These guidebooks provide comprehensive information on everything from multi-pitch climbs to bouldering areas, offering detailed route descriptions, maps, topos, and photo diagrams.
The Essential Guide⁚ Red Rocks ⎼ A Climbers Guide
Written by Jerry Handren, “Red Rocks ⎯ A Climbers Guide” is considered the definitive guidebook for the area. This comprehensive guide covers thousands of routes, both trad and sport, including many that have never been featured in other guidebooks. The second edition of this book, published in 2007, is the most up-to-date and helpful resource available. It includes detailed information on over 2,300 climbs, using full written descriptions, maps, topos, and photo diagrams.
SuperTopo’s Red Rocks Climbing Guidebook
SuperTopo’s Red Rocks Climbing Guidebook offers a curated selection of the best climbs in the area, focusing primarily on routes in the 5.4 to 5.11 range. While the guidebook highlights classic multi-pitch routes like Crimson Chrysalis and Epinephrine, it also includes cragging routes for a more varied experience. This guidebook features SuperTopos, providing clear and concise visual representations of each route. It’s a great choice for climbers looking for a focused selection of quality climbs in a user-friendly format.
The Red Rocks Bouldering Guidebook
For those seeking a low-to-the-ground challenge, The Red Rocks Bouldering Guidebook is an essential resource. It features over 1600 boulder problems scattered throughout Red Rocks, Nevada. This comprehensive guidebook offers detailed descriptions of each problem, along with clear beta and photographs to help you find your way. Whether you’re a seasoned boulderer or just starting out, this guidebook provides a wealth of information to help you discover the best bouldering spots in Red Rocks.
Southern Nevada Bouldering (SNB)
Southern Nevada Bouldering (SNB) is a highly regarded guidebook that focuses specifically on bouldering areas in and around Las Vegas, Nevada. This book, now in its third edition, is considered the definitive guide for bouldering enthusiasts exploring the region. It covers a wide range of bouldering areas, including Red Rocks, providing detailed descriptions, maps, and photographs to help you locate and navigate the best spots. SNB is a valuable resource for climbers looking to discover new bouldering challenges in Southern Nevada.
Red Rocks Climbing Guidebook by KAYA Climb
The Red Rocks Climbing Guidebook by KAYA Climb is a comprehensive resource for bouldering enthusiasts visiting Red Rocks, Nevada. This KAYA PRO guidebook features over 1600 boulder problems, providing detailed descriptions and beta to help you locate and navigate the diverse bouldering areas in the region. The guidebook’s user-friendly format and extensive coverage make it an essential companion for anyone looking to explore the vast bouldering opportunities in Red Rocks.
Choosing the Right Guidebook
The best guidebook for you depends on your climbing style and the type of routes you plan to tackle.
For Multi-Pitch Climbing⁚ Red Rocks ⎯ A Climbers Guide
If you’re planning to tackle the classic multi-pitch routes that Red Rocks is famous for, “Red Rocks ⎯ A Climbers Guide” by Jerry Handren is the definitive resource. This comprehensive guidebook covers over 2,300 climbs, with detailed descriptions, maps, topos, and photo diagrams. Handren’s book is widely considered the gold standard for Red Rocks climbing, offering in-depth information and insights for both experienced climbers and those new to the area. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about exploring the multi-pitch routes of Red Rocks.
For Bouldering⁚ The Red Rocks Bouldering Guidebook
For those who prefer the ground-level challenge of bouldering, “The Red Rocks Bouldering Guidebook” is essential. This guidebook, created in collaboration with Tom Moulin, author of “Southern Nevada Bouldering II,” provides a comprehensive overview of the area’s diverse bouldering spots. It features detailed information on over 1,600 boulder problems, including GPS coordinates, beta videos, directions, and more. Whether you’re looking to explore the popular areas like Kraft, Gateway, or Calico, or venture off the beaten path, this guidebook is your key to unlocking the bouldering potential of Red Rocks;
For Sport and Trad Routes⁚ SuperTopo’s Red Rocks Climbing Guidebook
SuperTopo’s “Red Rocks Climbing Guidebook” is a great choice for climbers seeking a comprehensive guide to both sport and traditional routes in Red Rocks. This guidebook focuses on classic multi-pitch routes, such as Crimson Chrysalis and Epinephrine, but also includes a selection of cragging routes. It features SuperTopos for the best Red Rocks climbs, mostly in the 5.4 to 5.11 range, making it suitable for climbers of various skill levels. With detailed route descriptions, maps, and topos, this guidebook will help you navigate the diverse landscape of Red Rocks and discover the best climbs for your abilities.
Key Features of Red Rocks Guidebooks
Red Rocks guidebooks offer a range of features to help you plan your climbing trip, including detailed route descriptions, maps, topos, and photo diagrams.
Detailed Route Descriptions
Red Rocks guidebooks are renowned for their detailed route descriptions, providing climbers with all the essential information for a successful ascent. These descriptions typically include⁚
- Grade and Style⁚ The guidebooks clearly state the route’s difficulty rating, whether it’s trad, sport, or aid climbing.
- Approach and Descent⁚ Detailed instructions on how to reach the base of the climb and how to descend safely after the climb.
- Route History⁚ Some guidebooks provide information about the history of the route, including the first ascent and notable ascenders.
- Gear Recommendations⁚ Suggestions for the type and amount of gear needed for the climb, including ropes, anchors, and protection.
- Crux Information⁚ A description of the most challenging section of the climb, helping climbers prepare for the most difficult moves.
These comprehensive descriptions ensure climbers have the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions about their climbs and navigate the Red Rocks landscape with confidence.
Maps and Topos
Red Rocks climbing guidebooks are essential for navigating the vast and complex landscape of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. They provide a range of maps and topos to aid climbers in finding their way to specific routes and understanding the terrain⁚
- Area Maps⁚ Guidebooks often include detailed maps of the entire Red Rock Canyon, showing the location of various climbing areas, trails, and access points.
- Route Topos⁚ These diagrams provide a visual representation of the route, illustrating the sequence of pitches, anchor points, and protection placements.
- Approach Maps⁚ Detailed maps that guide climbers from the trailhead to the base of the climb, indicating trail junctions, landmarks, and potential hazards.
- Elevation Profiles⁚ Some guidebooks include elevation profiles of routes, showing the steepness of the climb and any significant changes in altitude.
These maps and topos are crucial for planning your climb, understanding the terrain, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the Red Rocks.
Photo Diagrams
Red Rocks guidebooks often incorporate photo diagrams to enhance the clarity and accessibility of route descriptions. These visual aids provide a more concrete understanding of the climb’s features, making it easier for climbers to visualize the route and plan their ascent. Here’s how photo diagrams contribute to a better climbing experience⁚
- Key Features⁚ Photo diagrams highlight key features of a route, such as tricky moves, crux sections, and anchor points, which may not be easily discernible from traditional topos.
- Visual Guidance⁚ They offer a visual representation of the climbing sequence, showing how the route traverses the rock face, which can be particularly helpful for navigating complex routes.
- Protection Placement⁚ Photo diagrams often indicate the location of protection placements, making it easier for climbers to plan their gear and ensure a safe ascent.
- Enhanced Understanding⁚ By combining visual and textual descriptions, photo diagrams provide a more comprehensive understanding of the route, allowing climbers to make informed decisions about their approach.
Photo diagrams are a valuable resource for climbers of all levels, particularly for those new to the area or tackling more challenging routes.
Beta Videos and GPS Coordinates
Modern Red Rocks guidebooks are increasingly incorporating beta videos and GPS coordinates to provide climbers with a more comprehensive and interactive experience. These features enhance the user’s ability to access valuable information and navigate the area effectively.
- Beta Videos⁚ These short videos offer real-time demonstrations of specific routes, showcasing the climbing techniques, crux moves, and protection placements. Climbers can visualize the route in action, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and strategies involved.
- GPS Coordinates⁚ The inclusion of GPS coordinates allows climbers to pinpoint the precise location of specific routes, making it easier to find trailheads, approach paths, and starting points. This feature is especially helpful for navigating the extensive network of canyons and trails within Red Rocks.
- Enhanced Navigation⁚ By integrating beta videos and GPS coordinates, guidebooks provide a seamless and interactive way to explore the area, allowing climbers to access information and navigate the terrain with greater ease and confidence.
These features are particularly valuable for climbers who are new to the area or looking to tackle more challenging routes, as they provide a comprehensive and accessible way to understand the terrain and plan their climbing adventures.
Other Resources for Red Rocks Climbing
Beyond guidebooks, Red Rocks offers a wealth of additional resources for climbers, including local climbing shops, online platforms, and visitor centers.
Desert Rock Sports
Desert Rock Sports is a local climbing shop located in Las Vegas, Nevada, that serves as a hub for climbers visiting Red Rocks. They offer a wide selection of climbing gear, including shoes, ropes, harnesses, and other essential equipment. The shop also carries a variety of climbing guidebooks, maps, and other resources specifically tailored to Red Rocks. Their knowledgeable staff can provide valuable advice on routes, conditions, and gear recommendations, making them an invaluable resource for climbers planning their trips. Desert Rock Sports also hosts events, clinics, and guided trips, fostering a strong community of climbers in the area.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Website
The official website for Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers a wealth of information for climbers and visitors alike. You can find details about the park’s regulations, safety guidelines, and permits required for climbing. The website also provides information on camping, hiking trails, and other activities within the park. Additionally, you can access maps and trail descriptions, helping you plan your routes and understand the terrain. The website also features news and announcements about closures, events, and other important updates for climbers, ensuring you stay informed about current conditions and activities.
Mountain Project
Mountain Project is an online resource that serves as a comprehensive database for climbers worldwide. For Red Rocks, it offers a vast collection of route information, including detailed descriptions, ratings, photos, and user-submitted beta. You can search for specific routes, areas, or even climbers who have ascended those routes. The website also features forums where climbers can discuss routes, share tips, and ask questions about the area. Mountain Project is a valuable tool for planning your Red Rocks climbing trip, researching routes, and connecting with other climbers in the community.
Local Climbing Shops
Local climbing shops in the Red Rocks area are invaluable resources for climbers. They often carry a wide selection of guidebooks, maps, and other essential gear, including climbing shoes, ropes, and harnesses. Staff members are typically knowledgeable about the local climbing scene and can provide recommendations for routes, areas, and even local climbing partners. They may also offer gear rentals, guide services, and information on local climbing events and meetups. Visiting a local climbing shop is a great way to get insider tips, learn about new routes, and connect with the local climbing community.
Red Rock Visitor Center
The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area Visitor Center is a great starting point for any climber visiting the area. Located just off the 13-mile scenic drive, the visitor center offers a wealth of information about the park, including its history, geology, and wildlife. You can find maps, brochures, and exhibits showcasing the area’s climbing scene. The visitor center staff can answer your questions about climbing permits, safety regulations, and recommended routes. They can also direct you to local climbing shops, guide services, and other resources that can enhance your climbing experience.