Looking for something a little more intense than your average hike or bike ride? We'd highly recommend the Sylvan Rocks Climbing School and Guides. Since 1989, Sylvan Rocks has been teaching beginning climbers the right and proper form. They even take experienced guests to some of the best summits that Black Hills rock climbing has to offer. Sylvan Rocks provides Black Hills rock climbing for families and individuals and there's no experience needed to take a class. In fact, Sylvan Rocks encourages people with no experience in order to share their love of Black Hills rock climbing with others.
Sylvan Rocks takes guests to different Black Hills rock climbing spots in Custer State Park. Not only is Custer State Park their playground, they also provide guided climbing tours at Devils Tower and near Mount Rushmore.
Sylvan Rocks is the only climbing guide service accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association operating in the Black Hills and at Devils Tower National Monument. In fact, they were chosen to work on the film National Treasure 2, and on location in the Black Hills with survivalist Bear Grylls. Sylvan Rocks is full service guide school that can host groups from 1 to 80+ people. Your family and friends will never forget rock climbing in the Black Hills.
Rock Climbing Course Policies
Sylvan Rocks suggests making reservations in advance. Since their climbing courses generally begin at 8 AM, same day courses can be difficult to arrange. They operate on a first-come-first-serve basis and only have a limited amount of days and slots available.
Sylvan Rocks will meet you at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park, Devils Tower, Mt Rushmore, or the Palisades with all the rock climbing equipment needed for the day. Before climbing, liability waivers must be read and signed. Minors must have a parent or guardian available to sign the waivers at that time, or make prior arrangements. Clients under 16 years of age must have a parent or guardian attend the course with them. Parents or guardians need not take the course with them, but must be present.
Finally, one of the best features of Sylvan Rocks is that they provide all the needed rock climbing/mountain climbing equipment. You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own. If you do bring your own equipment, it's up to you store it correctly and to know its history, as there can be flaws that are not visible that can have devastating results.