There are many opportunities to rock climb in New Mexico you just have to know who to go with to show you where to go.
Our past governor Gary Johnson was after all one of the elite who climbed Mount Everest last year. He was led by another New Mexico resident Dave Hahn from Taos on that trek.
There are a number of clubs and schools that can get you to the right climb. If you are coming to the area as a tourist and would like to have a professional and experienced New Mexican climber there is an international school that has a branch in Taos.
The organization Mountain Skills. To get information go to www.climbingschoolusa.com or call 505 776 2222.
This school and others like it have the three levels of classes and climbs.
Beginners’ level where you learn hands on instruction including: Basic Knots, Belay and Rappel techniques, climbing communication, safety procedures, and moving on the rock. First time climbers will be gradually introduced to varying degrees of height and difficulty as each climber comfort level allows.
Intermediate level is where you After a review of the basics, you will be given an introduction to basic advanced techniques including lead climbing, assessing potential dangers, alternative belay and rappel procedures, anchor building, multiple-pitch climbing, and free-climbing techniques. And in advanced Hands-on practice in lead climbing (gear placement and sport), anchor building, multi-pitch climbing, alternative belay and rappel procedures, assessing potential dangers, basic aid climbing and rescue techniques including Jumars and Prusiks. Route finding, descending, and advanced free-climbing skills are covered.
Some of the climbing areas in the state are the Sandias Mountains just outside of Albuquerque, Questa dome near Taos, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Santa Fe, and in the southern part of the state the Organ Mountains.
Hueco Tanks Hueco Tanks, and other SW NM areas Enchanted Tower-Enchanted Tower, near Datil, NM, Percha Creek -Percha Creek, Hillsboro, NM, Palomas Peak -Palomas Peak, El Rito - El Rito , and Las Conchas - Las Conchas. are some other areas that you can go to the sites to check out.
There is a rock climbing Gym in Santa Fe that offers the experience and knowledge of the area with their guides. Santa Fe Climbing Gym 825 Early Street 505 986 8944.
So whether you are a first timer and wanted a little adventure while visiting the Santa Fe area, or an experienced climber, New Mexico has something for everyone if you like to rock climb.
Eileen Richardson
