In recent years, climbing has gained significant popularity as a sport, thanks in part to the buzz around “Free Solo,” the Oscar-winning documentary about Alex Honnold’s daring ascent up El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. This year’s Summer Olympics in Tokyo will showcase sport climbing for the first time, featuring three exciting events: speed, boulder, and lead climbing.
The American Alpine Club’s 2019 State of Climbing Report revealed that most outdoor climbers are male, with 67 percent being men and 33 percent women. This sets the stage for my personal experience with rock climbing.
A few weeks back, I received an invitation from 57Hours, a platform that connects adventure-seekers with certified guides. They invited me to join an upcoming All Women’s Climbing Camp in Colorado. Though I had climbed indoors a few times, outdoor sport climbing was new to me, but I was immediately intrigued by the opportunity. I always enjoy trying new activities, especially in iconic locations. I’ve previously been coasteering in Wales, surfing in Montauk, and paragliding in Switzerland. So, the chance to climb near Boulder, Colorado—a well-known destination for climbers worldwide—was irresistible.
57Hours was launched to make outdoor experiences more accessible. The founder struggled with booking a climbing trip in Jackson, Wyoming, which required exchanging 20 emails just to secure a single day. This led to the birth of the company in 2019, aiming to facilitate outdoor adventures over a weekend. They named the company 57Hours, symbolizing the time available from Friday at 3 p.m. until midnight on Sunday.
The platform functions like Airbnb, connecting adventurers with local guides. Users can search by activity or location, review available courses, and book directly through the app, whether they want a private lesson or join a group.
Part of 57Hours’ commitment to diversity and inclusion is their recent introduction of All Women’s Camps. They started these with a deep powder ski camp in Jackson in March 2021, which received enthusiastic feedback, prompting more female-led camps.
Intrigued by the women-focused initiative, I explored their camp details. It was a “Gym to Crag” camp, perfect for those transitioning from indoor gym climbing to the great outdoors—ideal for me! After checking the FAQs about what I’d need and what to expect, I signed up.
When the day arrived, I was up early, ready for the drive to Eldorado Canyon. With coffee in hand at 6:30 a.m., I met the group. My climbing partner, Tess, had more experience than I did but was keen to refine her skills. Our instructor, Jess, from Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, brought impressive climbing credentials and a warm, supportive demeanor that immediately set us at ease.
We started with introductions, sharing our objectives and questions. It turned out Tess had recently moved from New York City, so we had common ground. Jess, studying for her master’s in social work, aims to use climbing as therapy for those with mental health challenges, teaching individuals to conquer fear in controlled environments—a fascinating concept.
We covered essential climbing gear requirements: a harness, helmet, ropes, chalk, technical rock shoes, carabiners, and a GriGri (which we would learn about later). Jess taught us fundamental skills like tying knots, performing safety checks, and proper body positioning against the rock.
After mastering the basics, Jess demonstrated lead climbing, where she attached herself to one end of the rope while Tess belayed. She placed cams in the rock as protection in case of a fall. Once she reached the top, she set a permanent anchor for us to practice top roping, a safer style since the rope was already secured at the top.
Faced with the challenge of climbing Play Time on Supremacy Rock (yes, climbing routes are named!), I noticed the absence of clear, colorful holds found in gyms. Yet, despite the seemingly smooth surface, I learned to trust my rock shoes. They provided excellent grip, even when it seemed I might slip. Jess and Tess provided helpful advice from below, boosting my confidence.
To my delight, I made it to the top quicker than I expected. Reflecting on my skepticism, Jess remarked that women in her climbing camps often doubt their abilities compared to men. Her observations resonated with me, highlighting the importance of all women’s camps in fostering confidence among female adventurers.
These camps tap into mental aspects of climbing—confidence, quick decision-making, focus, and judgment. Jess recommended the book “The Rock Warrior’s Way: Mental Training for Climbers,” emphasizing the role of mental fitness. Doubting my abilities before starting wouldn’t help my performance.
Over two days, we tackled increasingly challenging climbs, encouraging one another throughout. The support from Tess and Jess was instrumental, assuring me to rest when needed, suspended in mid-air while they held me from below. Their encouragement fueled my progress and made the experience truly enjoyable.
Although I’ve joined co-ed sports camps before, I appreciated the unique dynamic in this all-women’s setting. Without the potential for intimidation, I was free to climb at my own pace.
Sharing my experience with a male acquaintance, though, highlighted how women’s challenges in male-dominated sports often go overlooked. Dismissive comments deflated me momentarily, but reflecting on the supportive environment reinforced the value of all-women’s camps.
Women exchanged stories during the camp about times when men undervalued their abilities or made them feel uncomfortable during outdoor activities. Jess shared that even as an experienced guide, she faced assumptions about her competence. Tess recounted uncomfortable experiences with male climbers displaying condescending behavior.
Our stories weren’t all negative. Humor and camaraderie added joy to the learning experience. The camp was filled with smiles, supportive comments, and the phrase “Rock on, b*tch!” echoing as we climbed, bonding us further.
57Hours’ testimonials mirrored my experience, showcasing the positive impact of these camps. Elyse, who attended the Women’s Weekend Rock Climbing Clinic, praised the inspiring energy and enjoyed the guides’ motivating words. Another reviewer appreciated the safe space to test personal skills and receive constructive feedback.
While the empowerment I felt isn’t exclusive to climbing, mastering new challenges is undoubtedly rewarding—akin to my first successful surf, snowboard jump, or soccer goal. Yet, this climbing camp felt particularly powerful, and I suspect sharing it with amazing women made it all the more special. Rest assured, this won’t be my last all-women adventure!
