SHELF ROAD CRAGGIN' CLASSIC

October 11-13, 2024



Tie in with the AAC and Tenaya for the infamous Shelf Road Craggin’ Classic! Together we will celebrate camaraderie and our shared love for Shelf—the land of limestone pocket pulling, crimp crushing, and bolt clipping.

For 2023 we have an incredible weekend in store: up your game with stellar clinics taught by professional climbers and local guides; inspiring films and speakers like Marcus Garcia & Brittany Goris; local food trucks with tasty grub; free beer abounds; and multiple stewardship projects! Bring your dancing shoes and Halloween costumes for the live Montucky DJ dance party and costume contest! Plus you can win top end gear in our raffles, games, and silent auctions.

Do some fabulous bolt clipping in the sun, get inspired, learn new techniques to up your game, and give some love to this amazing community, that’s the Shelf Road Craggin’ Classic in a nutshell.

Space is limited and THIS EVENT WILL SELL OUT!


American Alpine Club Members Receive Discounted Craggin’ Tickets!

Join or renew your membership with the AAC—the biggest community of climbers in the country—and help protect the heart of climbing. We’re fighting for the quiet and wild climbing landscapes, and the most popular crags too. Join us in this fight today and get this limited edition t-shirt!


2023 Schedule

Check out last year’s schedule for a glimpse into the fun!

  • 9 AM: Paradox Sports Clinic

    12:40 PM: Meet at the Vendor Village for Clinics
    Come prepared for the day with plenty of water, personal climbing gear, lunch, sunscreen, and a thirst for knowledge! ! Your clinic will meet at the sponsors’ booth in the vendor village.

    1 PM - 5 PM: Friday Clinics
    You asked, we answered! Because demand has been so high, we’ve added a second day of clinics. There are a limited number of half day clinics. You can sign up for both a Friday and Saturday clinic. See clinic details below.

    4 PM: Check In Opens

    Participants must check in at the AAC Registration Table in the Vendor Village at the base of the Banks Roads (corral area). Have your ID ready.

    4:30 PM: Food Trucks Open for Business
    Fiesta Grill, Wings on Wheels, and Mystic Mushroom food trucks will have tasty food available for purchase!

    5 PM: Weekend Kickoff Party and Games Start
    Stop by Vendor Village for fun contests, cold beverages, and to win stuff! Buy raffle tickets at the AAC booth and win even more stuff!

    5:15 PM: Silent Auction Opens
    Thanks to our generous sponsors and community members, we have a bunch of amazing prizes lined up for you to win! Proceeds benefit your American Alpine Club’s work protecting wild places, educating climbers, and building community, so be sure to bid on some amazing items. Silent Auction located by the main event tent. Auction closes at 7pm on Saturday!

    5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Signups for Stewardship Project & Slackline Comps
    If you wish to be part of the Shelf Road Stewardship Projects or Slackline Competition registration is required.

    Head to the Leave No Trace tent to ask for a bag to pick up trash throughout your festival weekend that you find at the crag or around camp (even better – bring your own reusable trash bags/grocery bags from home as well your own work gloves/gardening gloves if you have them). Return Saturday evening with your stash to the LNT booth to be entered in a raffle for some sweet prizes! Using the power of science, education and stewardship, Leave No Trace is on a mission to ensure a sustainable future for the outdoors and the planet. This includes disposing of waste properly and leaving places better than you found them.

    Head to the Rocky Mountain Field Institute tent to sign up for the stewardship projects and be entered in a special raffle!

    Head to the Project Send It tent to register for the slackline competition.

    5:30 PM - 6 PM: A Fine Line: Searching for Balance Among Mountains by AAC Board President Graham Zimmerman
    Join award-winning alpinist Graham Zimmerman for a discussion of his memoir A Fine Line: Searching for Balance Among Mountains. Learn how Graham reconciles the love of outdoor adventure with the inevitability of loss in high-risk sports and his social responsibilities as a husband, climate advocate, and community leader.

    As a professional climber, Graham Zimmerman is one of the most acclaimed alpinists of his generation. After graduating from Otago University in 2007 with a degree in geography, he focused on alpinism, a pursuit that has taken him on expeditions to Alaska, Patagonia, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, and all over the lower 48 and Canada. His awards include the 2020 Piolet d’Or, 2016 Cutting Edge Award for Excellence in Alpine Climbing, 2014 Piolet d’Or Top 5 Finalist, and 2010 New Zealand Alpinist of the Year. Dedicated to using his platform for good, he holds leadership roles in a range of nonprofits and outdoor companies, including the American Alpine Club and Protect Our Winters. He lives in Bend, Oregon with his wife, Shannon, and their dog, Pebble.

    6 PM - 7 PM: “Let’s Climb Together” presentation by Marcus Garcia sponsored by RAB/Sterling Ropes

    Listen to Marcus Garcia talk about his journey to Kenya with The Global Climbing Initiative to bring about an empowerment & mentorship program that showed local climbers the best practices of our sport. This initiative will allow the Kenyan climbing community to thrive independently in climbing, in self-discovery, & in life.

    7 PM: Raffle #1
    We want everyone to have a chance at winning something this weekend so we have MORE amazing prizes lined up for you, so help support the American Alpine Club by buying some raffle tickets! Raffle winners will be announced & prizes distributed in the main event tent.

    7:10 PM - 9:20 PM: "Professional Dirtbag: From Dumpster Hauls to Big Walls" Film Featuring Brittany Goris
    The feature film follows Brittany Goris’ journey to climb her first ever big wall - attempting to free climb the storied Salathé Wall of El Capitan - alongside the journeys of her heroes, while exploring connection to purpose, place, identity, community, and history. Through this, the film explores Brittany’s inspiration from, and honors the life and legacy of, Todd Skinner — who, alongside Paul Piana, made the first free ascent of El Capitan via the Salathé Wall in 1988.

    9:30 PM: Mountain Hardwear Film Features
    Our partners at Mountain Hardwear have given us not 1, not 2, but 3 whole short films to play that are sure to be crowd pleasers. We will be playing “Letting Go of the Grade,” “Both & Neither'' and “DSCVRY.”

    Letting Go of the Grade is a film about climbers, not the climbing, following four women as they make their way up Las Agujas (The Spires) of El Potrero Chico.

    MHW climber Caleb Robinson and filmmaker Trevor Riley were drawn to one another’s passion for seeing and documenting Black climbers. Together, they went to Red Rock with big ambitions and came home with something else. Their film, DSCVRY, is about the things you don’t find at the top of any boulder.

    As a Mexican-American, Natalie Connell spent her life balancing two cultural identities, with neither fitting quite right on its own, but through art and climbing, she’s found her rightful place as a bridge between the two.

    10 PM: The Party Continues …
    Be sure to check out any remaining vendors in our village, they might have a firepit and s’mores to roast!

    If you came in late, the Registration Booth will be closed for the night but be sure to come back in the morning before clinics to get checked in!

  • 7 AM: Coffee by First Ascent

    We’ve got all your morning beverage needs covered thanks to coffee from First Ascent! Just bring your mug as this is part of our no waste initiative.

    7:15 AM - 8:15 AM: Stewardship Breakfast hosted by PPCA
    Early Bird breakfast, sponsored by the Pikes Peak Climbers Alliance, at the PPCA tent for registered stewardship project volunteers! To register for a stewardship project, visit the RMFI booth all weekend long.

    7:30 AM - 9 AM: Breakfast for All hosted by Climbers for Christ
    Climbers for Christ is volunteering their time and resources to provide breakfast to all Shelf Road Craggin’ Classic guests. Stop by the main event tent to fuel up for the day!

    7:30 AM - 8:30 AM | Sunrise Yoga for Climbers with Bri Leonard presented by Arc’Teryx
    Bri was born and raised in Denver Colorado, and has always been rooted in movement. Growing up Bri was a competitive dancer and cheerleader; craving community and connection she found yoga a few years after moving to Boulder in 2014 and has taught professionally for 7 years. Bri is certified in Vinyasa, Hot, Rocket and Sculpt/Fit. Within the past few years Bri has leaned into her passion to teach and share the gift of yoga with the world, in 2020 she started her own podcast called Haunting House and is now certified in Reiki I & II. In Bri's class you will experience a heart pumping vibration that will strengthen your mind, soul and body.

    8:30 AM – 3 PM: Stewardship Project with the Rocky Mountain Field Institute and Pikes Peak Climbers Alliance
    Giving back to Shelf is cool! The Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI) is leading a stewardship and conservation project with support from Pikes Peak Climbers Alliance (PPCA). Trail work will be focused on improving the Cactus Cliff approach trail by installing rock steps, tread armoring, and enhancing drainage. Registration required and available on the AAC website and at the RMFI booth all weekend long. Prize giveaways will be provided for volunteering. Get involved and give back!

    8:40 AM | Meet at the Vendor Village for Clinics
    Come prepared for the day with plenty of water, personal climbing gear, lunch, sunscreen, and a thirst for knowledge! Your clinic will meet at the sponsors’ booth in the vendor village.

    9 AM - 10 AM: “Find a Climbing Partner” with TINCUP Mountain Whiskey
    Why risk your life free-soloing when you have a plethora of partners to choose from? Stop by the TINCUP Mountain Whiskey tent Friday night and sign your name to find a like-minded partner to adventure with for the day on Saturday! *Please note that they TINCUP tent will not have any staff, so this is a freeform meet & greet*

    Don’t forget to stop by the TINCUP & LNT tents with your new friends when you get back for happy hour!

    9 AM - 4 PM: Climb United Meet-Up
    Grab your climbing shoes and meet some of your fellow climbers during the first ever Shelf Road Climb United Meet-up facilitated by Paradox Sports, Front Range Area Queer Climbers, Cruxing in Color, & Latino Outdoors! This meet-up is for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Adaptive, Plus Size climbers, and self-selected allies. Online registration is required. More info below. Meet at the Cruxing in Color Tent.

    *Please note that this meetup takes place at the same time as clinics*

    9 AM - 4 PM: Ladies Climbing Coalition Meet-Up

    Join Ladies Climbing Coalition for a day of climbing, empowerment and friendship! LCC is a nonprofit organization that works to connect and empower women and nonbinary folks through climbing. They work to break down barriers to entry and foster community and positivity. This is a meetup, NOT a guided day. Bring your own gear and lots of stoke!

    Registration required. Meet at the AAC Tent.

    *Please note that this meetup takes place at the same time as clinics*

    9 AM - 4 PM: Climbing Clinics with Pros and Local Guides
    Learning from those that are masters at their craft can seriously benefit your climbing. Sign up for a climbing clinic taught by professional climbing athletes and local climbing guides and up your game. Clinics descriptions will indicate any prerequisite skills. Clinics presented by Denver Mountain Guiding, She Sends Collective, Golden Mountain Guides, and athletes from our generous sponsors!

    Clinic descriptions and details below. Your clinic will meet at the sponsors’ booth in the vendor village.

    10 AM - 4 PM: “Families Who Send Together…” Meet-Up hosted by Project Send It & NewTreks

    Grab your shoes and your kids and get ready to climb with other families during the Family Meet-up supported by a partnership between New Treks and Project Send It.

    This is a meetup, NOT a guided day. Registration required. More info below. Meet at the Project Send It & NewTreks Tent.

    *Please note that this meetup takes place at the same time as clinics*

    4:30 PM: Food Trucks Open for Business
    Fiesta Grill, Wings on Wheels, and Mystic Mushroom food trucks will have tasty food & dessert available for purchase!

    5 PM Onward: Dirtbag Climber Throwdown Extravaganza Party
    Gather the crew and howl at the moon! Enjoy some local brews and beverages, Vendor Village, Silent Auction and raffle, climbing games, and the sixth annual costume contest! It's the climber party to end all climber parties. Dress up. Drink beers. Act weird.

    5 PM: Silent Auction Opens (again)
    We believe in second chances, so if you missed yesterday’s silent auction biddings now’s your time to shine! Thanks to our generous sponsors and community members, we have a bunch of amazing prizes lined up for you to win! Proceeds benefit your American Alpine Club’s work protecting wild places, educating climbers, and building community, so be sure to bid on some amazing items.

    5 PM - 6 PM: TINCUP Whiskey Happy Hour + Leave No Trace Workshop
    Stop by the Leave No Trace and Rocky Mountain Field Institute tents for tasty cocktails provided by TINCUP Whiskey and test your knowledge and learn about LNT best practices. Learn the rotten truth about trash, and find out how long it takes for common trash items to break down, facts and stats about recycling, and why we should pack it in, pack it out and Leave No Trash! Be sure to bring your Craggin’ Classic cup for the cocktails!

    6 PM - 7 PM: “Struggling, Stress, and Success” presented by the AAC’s Climbing Grief Fund
    The Climbing Grief Fund is an essential part of the American Alpine Club, providing education, resources, and mental health clinicians to the greater climbing community. Come join for an hour of discussion and presentation, learning more about what they do and who they support. The program will be facilitated by three licensed mental health providers covering topics of discussion including, how to identify signs and symptoms of stress in the mountaineering community and how to recognize when a climbing partner is struggling.

    7:30 PM: Silent Auction Closes (for good) Climbing gear, art, and more! Winners will be announced over the PA system to come pick up their merchandise at the main event tent.

    7:30 PM: Raffle #2

    We want everyone to have a chance at winning something this weekend so we have MORE amazing prizes lined up for you, so help support the American Alpine Club by buying some raffle tickets! Raffle winners will be announced & prizes distributed in the main event tent.

    7 :30PM - 8:30 PM: Slackline Competition at the Corrals hosted by Project Send It, Chrissy Vadovszki, & Mark Koh
    Come show off your balance and tricks on the corral slackline, winners take home a Gibbon slackline of their very own.

    8:15 PM: Silent Auction Closes (for good)
    Climbing gear, art, and more! Winners will be announced over the PA system to come pick up their merchandise at the main event tent.

    9 PM: Costume Contest
    The Annual Halloween Costume Contest in the main event tent; Strut your stuff to warm up for the holiday and win prizes!

    9:30 PM: Montucky Dance Party with DJ Dan Dasana
    Combining DJ Dan Dasana & Joshua Tree Skin Care’s sound system means even more dancing! The party continues including a bonfire, s’mores, music and shenanigans.

  • 7 AM: Coffee by First Ascent

    We’ve got all your morning beverage needs covered thanks to coffee from First Ascent! Just bring your mug as this is part of our no waste initiative.

    7:15 AM - 8:15 AM: Stewardship Breakfast hosted by PPCA
    Early Bird breakfast, sponsored by the Pikes Peak Climbers Alliance, at the PPCA tent for registered stewardship project volunteers! To register for a stewardship project, visit the RMFI booth all weekend long.

    7:30 AM - 9 AM: Breakfast for All hosted by Climbers for Christ
    Climbers for Christ is volunteering their time and resources to provide breakfast to all Shelf Road Craggin’ Classic guests. Stop by the main event tent to fuel up for the day!

    8 AM - 9 AM | Sunrise Yoga for Climbers with Bri Leonard presented by Arc’Teryx
    Bri was born and raised in Denver Colorado, and has always been rooted in movement. Growing up Bri was a competitive dancer and cheerleader; craving community and connection she found yoga a few years after moving to Boulder in 2014 and has taught professionally for 7 years. Bri is certified in Vinyasa, Hot, Rocket and Sculpt/Fit. Within the past few years Bri has leaned into her passion to teach and share the gift of yoga with the world, in 2020 she started her own podcast called Haunting House and is now certified in Reiki I & II. In Bri's class you will experience a heart pumping vibration that will strengthen your mind, soul and body.

    8:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Stewardship Project with the Rocky Mountain Field Institute and Pikes Peak Climbers Alliance
    Giving back to Shelf is cool! The Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI) is leading a stewardship and conservation project with support from Pikes Peak Climbers Alliance (PPCA). Trail work will be focused on improving the Cactus Cliff approach trail by installing rock steps, tread armoring, and enhancing drainage. Registration required and available on the AAC website and at the RMFI booth all weekend long. Prize giveaways will be provided for volunteering. Get involved and give back!

    9 AM - 10 AM: Resilience with the Climbing Grief Fund & Marcus Garcia

    Resilience is the ability to face adversity with flexibility and grace. Hosted by a mental health professional with the AAC’s Climbing Grief Fund and Marcus Garcia, this workshop offers concepts and language regarding resilience and grief and its connection to climbing and the natural world. Registration is required.

    10 AM - 2 PM: ON THE ROCK CLIMBING Meet-Up
    Get a local’s perspective and hospitality! ON THE ROCK CLIMBING is a Colorado Springs based group that frequents the many crags of Shelf throughout each year and loves to introduce beginner to intermediate climbers to the limestone beauty of Shelf! More info below. Meet at the Main Event Tent.

    *Please note that this meet-up takes place at the same time as clinics*


2023 CLINIC OFFERINGS

Take your climbing to a new level by signing up for a climbing clinic taught by professional climbers and local guides! Climbers of all abilities are welcome. Registration is required and spaces fill up quickly.

Meet at the Vendor Village at your designated meeting time. Please be on time! Please bring comfy shoes for walking, plenty of water, snacks and/or lunch, sunscreen, extra layer, your personal climbing gear, helmet, climbing rope and gear if you have it, any additional equipment listed below for your specific clinic, and a thirst for knowledge.


2 DAY CLINICS

  • Learn how to replace bolts in this two-day clinic. You'll learn the skills needed to safely and ethically replace aging hardware. On day one, you'll learn the tools and skills needed to place, remove, and replace a variety of bolts, as well as systems to anchor, rebelay and ascend fixed lines. On day two, you'll apply all these skills, by helping to replace bolts in Sand Gulch.

    Prerequisites: We'd like participants to know basic knots, and to be comfortable ascending and descending fixed ropes (ascender and grigri).

    Equipment Needed: Participants should have a harness, helmet, Grigri (or similar abd), closed toe shoes, long pants, belay/work gloves. Ideally they will also have an ascender, aider, and a couple aid hooks. BCC will provide all the needed tools.

  • Day 1: Participants will learn the necessary skills to help adaptive athletes have a successful day craggin. Please note this is a FULL DAY friday unlike other 2-day clinics

    Day 2: Participants will but their newfound skills into practice during our Climb United Meetup, helping adaptive athletes join our other affinity spaces for a day of craggin and fun. As a thank you for helping making our sport more accessible and inclusive, we will give you a free weekend pass to the Shelf Craggin! You must still purchase a parking pass, but if you are in need of financial assistance, please email [email protected].

    PLEASE NOTE*: This clinic is $100 total. $15 of your registration fee for this course will be donated back to Paradox Sports. After registration, we will connect you with the folxs at Paradox Sports so you can register on their site as well

  • Using only the gear climbers normally carry, this clinic presents the skills that can be combined for retreats and rescues on multipitch climbs. The skills will be taught and practiced so participants should expect to be hands on and engaged.

    Participants will receive a Sterling Hollowblock and Nano 22 carabiner for this clinic. PLEASE NOTE*: This clinic is $10 more than other 2 day clinics (Total: $150)

    Prerequisites: Minimum 1-2 years of climbing experience. Experience or desire to climb multipitch climbs. Familiarity with belaying from above.

    Equipment Needed: 3 locking carabiners. 3 non-locking carabiners. 1 auto-blocking belay device (CAMP Piu, etc). 1 120cm sewn sling (Dyneema, Nylon, etc), 1 Sterling Hollowblock (or similar 13-15 inch loop for tying friction hitches).

FRIDAY 1/2 DAY CLINICS

  • There is a lot of complicated information out there about anchor systems. Learn to spot the good from the bad, and what is important in your system. In this clinic, Marcus will talk and explain basic anchors system, what really matters in building anchors and keeping a team secure on climbs. This clinic focuses on the simplicity of anchors and help to answer questions about the use of different anchor set ups. Students will walk away with new knowledge of anchors.

    Sterling will provide gear, but if you would like to bring your own gear, we will be using: Personal Anchor System, 2 D-shape locking carabiners, 3 Pear or HMS locking carabiners, 4 non-locking carabiners, 20" Cordelette, 13” Prusik, Double-length Shoulder Sling and a Quad-length Sewn Sling

SATURDAY CLINICS

  • Sport Climbing is the most accessible style of climbing to challenge yourself but that doesn't mean doing it well is easy! In this clinic we will work on the small things you can do to minimize the struggle and maximize your effort to make the most of a day at the crag.

    Prerequisites: Leading 5.9 Sport-Routes Outside

    Equipment needed: Participants will need a will need to bring an open mind, a willingness to try new things and above all else a desire to have fun! Also, please bring all of the essential personal climbing equipment needed for a day of sport climbing: Food and Water, Harness, Helmet, Chalk bag, Shoes, Grigri, Quickdraws, Rope, and a stick clip if you have one.

  • Want to learn how to project a route? OR want to learn better projecting skills so you can take on your next project with more confidence? Projecting is a process that involves a lot of patience, strategy, successm and failure. In this clinic, you will learn how to take on a project by breaking down the big goal of sending into smaller, more manageable steps. You will learn that failure is just a parrt of the process, and what really matters is that you have aplan for how to fail better.. and to have fun along the way!

    Prerequisites: Leading 5.9 Sport-Routes Outside

    Equipment needed: Harness, helmet, shoes, belay device, brush.

    Optional: draws, rope

  • Make the most of your climbing day! Onsighting is the ability to complete a climb with no previous beta or research. Attempt more routes throughout the day instead of getting stuck on one project.

    Prerequisites: All abilities are welcome, however climbers who feel confident on at least 5.10 will get the most out of this clinic.

    Equipment needed: Please bring all of the essential personal climbing equipment needed for a day of sport climbing: Food and Water, Harness, Helmet, Chalk bag, Shoes, Grigri, Quickdraws, Rope, and a stick clip if you have one.

  • There is a lot of complicated information out there about anchor systems. Learn to spot the good from the bad, and what is important in your system. In this clinic, Marcus will talk and explain basic anchors system, what really matters in building anchors and keeping a team secure on climbs. This clinic focuses on the simplicity of anchors and help to answer questions about the use of different anchor set ups. Students will walk away with new knowledge of anchors.

    Sterling will provide gear, but if you would like to bring your own gear, we will be using: Personal Anchor System, 2 D-shape locking carabiners, 3 Pear or HMS locking carabiners, 4 non-locking carabiners, 20" Cordelette, 13” Prusik, Double-length Shoulder Sling and a Quad-length Sewn Sling

  • What do you do when things go wrong and you have to descend a route without a rappel device? What are the different ways to deal with such a situation? Can you improvise a descent system with whatever is on your harness? This hands-on clinic will go over different solutions, comparing their pros and cons, and give you guidance and time to practice a number of techniques.

    Prerequisites: Prior outdoor climbing and rappelling experience

    Equipment needed: Bring a harness and personal gear; (optional): Gri-gri, guide mode device, prusik cord/hollow block, single and double length alpine draws, quick draws, some locking carabiners.

  • Ever wonder how to get into highlining? This clinic offers an introduction into highlining where attendees will learn about skills necessary to cross from slacklining into highlining and have an opportunity to help rig and get on their very first highline.

    Prerequisites: Slackliners who have a working knowledge of longer parklines and have mastered the fundamentals of standing and walking will benefit the most from this clinic, but all levels are welcome.

    Equipment needed: Personal equipment (shoes, gloves, hangover or rollex (optional)). *Please notify clinic leaders if you need any equipment and arrangements can be made. Additional equipment such as personal anchor/tether, anchor building material, and lead climbing gear is optional.

  • Learn the basics of multi-pitch sport climbing. We will cover how to belay from above, building anchors, lead climbing and belaying considerations, efficient transitions, stance management, rappelling, and even a few self-rescue techniques.

    Prerequisites: Experience leading sport climbs. Experience lead belaying.

    Equipment Needed: Harness, helmet, rock shoes, personal anchor system (can be a double length sling), ATC guide, gri gri (or other ABD), prusik, 4x locking carabiners, anchor material (quad or triple length sling and/or cordelette). We will have extra equipment for participants if needed (not including harness, helmet, and shoes).

  • This clinic is perfect for climbers leading multi-pitch routes and are looking to take their rescue knowledge and skills to the next level. In this course, La Sportiva athlete and Denver Mountain Guiding owner, Kevin Capps, will take you through the basics of multi-pitch rescue. Topics covered include belaying techniques, lowering and hauling from above, belay escapes and transitions from above, pick-offs in multi-pitch terrain, and rappelling with counterbalanced and tandem rappels. Participants will receive a list of necessary gear to bring for the day as well as a list of knots and hitches to practice before the course. We will also be covering the required knots and hitches in the first part of the course.

    Prerequisites: Introductory knowledge of multi-pitch climbing or have taken an intro to multi-pitch course. There is no minimum climbing ability since this course is ground school, at the crag.

  • We have a relationship between ourselves and rock climbing. Some aren't very strong, some are toxic and mean, and others are beautiful. This clinic helps participants develop a stronger and healthier relationship to climbing, while we explore mindset as an athlete, self talk, and fear management skills as it relates to falling, commitment and of the unknown. This isn't your typical fear of falling clinic, as we go beyond just the fear of falling, while establishing safe spaces of exploration and is taught in a trauma informed manner. During this one-day clinic you can expect to climb, receive journal prompts, be invited to explore comfort zones boundaries, and have lots of fun.

    PREREQUISITES: All abilities are welcome.

    GEAR REQUIRED: Personal climbing equipment (harness, helmet, shoes)

  • This class will go over the skills necessary to photograph and video active climbers while suspended from the wall. Tricks and tips for setting fixed lines and the skills necessary to ascend, descend and to anchor yourself safely while shooting with a camera.

    Prerequisites: Climbers should be able to lead climb 5.9+ sport routes, know basic climbing knots, how to use a Grigri, how to rappel, how to clean sport routes, and how to use a camera.

    Equipment Required: Helmet, Harness, Climbing shoes, Chalk bag, Guide ATC, Grigri, Ascender, 4 locking carabiners, 10 quick draws, 4 alpine draws, 120cm sling, Connect adjust or PAS

    **Note: do not let the required gear list dissuade you from this course. Please reach out to Xavier at [email protected] to coordinate borrowing any needed gear.

    Optional (makes it way easier!): Camera (should be able to attach camera to harness or person for shooting above the ground), 24-70 and/or 70-200 zoom lenses. Metolius or Petzl easy aider or etrier. Sterling Hollow block, Small backpack or camera bag/backpack for carrying on the wall, Petzl Rollclip carabiner, Walkie Talkies

2023 WORKSHOPS + MEET-UPS

  • Grab your climbing shoes and meet some of your fellow climbers during the Climb United Meet-up! Join Cruxing in Color, Latino Outdoors, Front Range Area Queer Climbers, Paradox Sports, and the Lockwood Foundation for a FREE day of climbing and community. Supported by our Climb United partners; REI, Eddie Bauer, Mountain Hardwear, Patagonia, Mammut, Adidas, and The North Face.

    To be mindful of individuals’ needs, we may subdivide into smaller groups the day of to best accommodate personal needs and obstacles while maintaining an appropriate group size. Please note that this is not a guided session, and no climbing instruction will be provided. Bring your own climbing gear if you have it!

    Who is this for: We encourage participation from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Adaptive, Plus Size climbers and self-selected allies.

    When: Saturday, 10am-4pm

    Cost: FREE, registration required

  • Join Ladies Climbing Coalition for a day of climbing, empowerment and friendship! LCC is a nonprofit organization that works to connect and empower women and nonbinary folks through climbing. They work to break down barriers to entry and foster community and positivity. This is a meetup, NOT a guided day. Bring your own gear and lots of stoke!

    Who is this for: Women and nonbinary climbers and anyone comfortable in spaces that center the experience of women.

    When: Saturday, 10am-4pm

    Cost: FREE, registration required

  • Grab your shoes and your kids and get ready to climb with other families during the Family Meet-up supported by a partnership between New Treks and Project Send It.

    Please note that this is not a guided session, and no climbing instruction will be provided. We may subdivide into smaller groups to maintain appropriate group size. Bring your own climbing gear if you have it!

    Who is this for: We encourage participation from climbers attending with their entire family, including children.

    When: Saturday, 10am-4pm

    Cost: FREE

  • Why risk your life free-soloing when you have a plethora of partners to choose from? Stop by the TINCUP Mountain Whiskey tent Friday night and sign your name to find a like-minded partner to adventure with for the day on Saturday! *Please note that they TINCUP tent will not have any staff, so this is a freeform meet & greet*

    Who is this for: Anyone looking for a climbing partner

    When: Saturday, 10am-4pm

    Cost: FREE, sign up at the TINCUP Booth on Friday night, show up saturday morning at the TINCUP Booth

  • Get a local’s perspective and hospitality! ON THE ROCK CLIMBING is a Colorado Springs based group that frequents the many crags of Shelf throughout each year and loves to introduce beginner to intermediate climbers to the limestone beauty of Shelf! [This is not a guided session, and no climbing instruction will be provided.

    More about us: Facebook Group

    Who is this for: Beginner to Intermediate Climbers

    When: Sunday, 10am-2pm

    Cost: FREE, registration required


PARTNER HIGHLIGHT: PIKES PEAK CLIMBERS ALLIANCE

PPCA Logo.jpeg

The PPCA is a nonprofit climbing stewardship organization based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Their mission is to promote sustainable use of local climbing areas, protect access, and engage the climbing community through events and educational opportunities.

They are named after Pikes Peak, but their stewardship work extends to many crags across the Southern Front Range of Colorado. Their main areas of focus include  Shelf Road, Garden of the Gods, and the South Platte. Learn more and get involved!


VOLUNTEERING

We would love your help to make this community event a success! If you would like to volunteer to help with setup the day before, parking and check-in the day of, and/or clean up and breakdown the day after, we'll have something special to offer you in thanks!

ACCESSIBILITY

Access to area, Trails, & Crag Features: Mountain Project Link

  • The Banks and Cactus Cliffs area may be access via a high-clearance car for ADA-accomodations only (others must approach as normal). Access to the base of these cliffs may require more assistance for mobility-impaired folxs.

  • Trails are moderate (rocks & roots present) and can range from a 15 min approach to over an hour depending on the crag.

  • Shelf Road is home to many sport routes on quality, vertical limestone. It is known for its technical pockets and crimps, but overhanging routes can still be found if searched hard enough.

  • Google Maps Pin

  • Event Map

  • There will be 1 ADA Porta-Potty available near the vendor village.

CAMPING

  • Walk-in camping is included with your event ticket and is located at the base of The Bank road in a large flat area that includes cactus and other desert plants. There is plenty of tent space, however, please consider wearing close-toed shoes, and bring a ground cover. You will not be allowed to park next to your tent.

  • Limited car camping parking will be available as well. Be sure to pay for a parking pass to reserve your space. Expect to park close to others - space is extremely limited. There are no paved roads near the corrals/main event space, only dirt & gravel roads.

  • Off-site camping is by reservation only at nearby Sand Gulch CG and The Bank CG ($7). The Craggin Classic does not manage these reservations and must be made through the BLM. Additionally, there are several lodging options including hotels and a KOA campground in nearby Canon City.

  • Dogs are allowed at this event but must be leashed and attached to you at all times. You know your dog best, if it is anxious or territorial, please leave them at your campsite or car. If your dog starts fights, we will kindly ask for you to remove your dog from the vendor village. Dogs are not allowed at clinics without prior permission from the instructor. 

  • PLEASE RESPECT THESE RULES as you may be asked to leave if disrespected!

FOOD + WATER

  • Food trucks will be available Friday & Saturday evening, with some vegetarian and gluten free options.

  • There is NO WATER onsite! Please plan ahead and bring enough water for everyone in your party for the weekend! (2 Gallons per person per day at minimum)

  • Registered stewardship volunteers will have free breakfast provided by the Pikes Peak Climbers Alliance

  • Climbers for Christ will have free breakfast for all Saturday and Sunday mornings.

ADDITIONAL INFO

  • There may be limited or no cell service at Shelf depending on your carrier.

  • The Vendor Village is built from the ground up. Limited lighting is available in the vendor village at night. Please plan to bring your own headlamp/light device to travel from your car/campground/bathrooms/etc. to the vendor village safely.

  • Our evening entertainment pieces will happen in the vendor village in the main event tent. It is a canopy-only tent and freely entered from 3 sides. Limited seating is available (~150 guests) with unlimited standing room.

  • The vendor village will only be able to be entered through the designated entrance on the northwest corner.

  • NO FIRES are allowed at the free camping area - only at the designated campground sites and the fire rings on Saturday night near the main tent. Cooking stoves are ok.

  • Please respect the dog guidelines listed above. Don’t ruin it for everyone because you think your dog is the exception.

  • Shelf Road is a high desert climate - temperatures can be near freezing at night this time of year, but warm during the day. Please plan and pack accordingly.

  • There are pit toilets at each of the campgrounds. Porta-potties and trash/recycling receptacles will be on site at Vendor Village/free camping area. 

  • We encourage you to carpool to save the environment and limited parking space!

DIRECTIONS

From the North: Take I-25 South through Colorado Springs, to the Tejon/Nevada exit for Highway 115. Go straight through the stoplight (Tejon St) and turn right at the second light, Nevada Ave, which is the same as Highway 115. Follow 115 south to the town of Penrose, about 30 miles. Just south of Penrose is the junction with Highway 50- take this West toward Canon City, another 6 miles. 

Once you come into Canon City, look for the Wal-Mart on your right. Turn right at Dozier Ave, just after the Wal-Mart, then again at the roundabout, heading north. Dozier winds around to the west and changes names to Central Ave. At the first stop sign, turn right (north) onto Field Ave, also called Co Rd 9 or Shelf Rd on various maps. Field heads north for another 9 miles. Just before the pavement ends, you’ll see a brown sign marked Sand Gulch, and another one marked The Bank, both with turns to the left. Take the second left toward The Bank, and look for Craggin Classic signs and/or volunteers! 

*PLEASE NOTE: A mapping program may misdirect you. DO NOT drive Shelf Road proper in the vicinity of Cripple Creek. Go through Canon City following the above directions!

From the South: Take I-25 North to Highway 50 toward Canon City, and follow the above directions from there.

Contact Information

Xavier Bravo, AAC Shelf Road Event Coordinator
Phone: (720) 263-1751
Email: [email protected]

Karyn Perdue, AAC Events Manager
Email:
[email protected]


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