As autumn falls across the pristine desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, the dropping temperatures and shorter days signify the start of another new season: climbing season. And the unofficial kickoff to that season, which lasts roughly from October-April each year, is Climb Smart, Friends of Joshua Tree’s annual long weekend filled with education, conservation, community, food, and fun.

Now in its 16th year, Climb Smart, presented by adidas Outdoor and Gear Coop, will take place October 17-19 at the Joshua Tree Lakes Campground and inside Joshua Tree National Park. This year’s event costs $139 for an all-access pass that includes clinics, camping, two dinners, and admission to the Reel Rock 9 screening (presented by The North Face and Gear Coop). Other select tickets are available at lower prices.

All proceeds from Climb Smart will benefit nonprofits devoted to conservation, climber education, and climbing access, including Friends of Joshua Tree (FOJT), Joshua Tree’s volunteer Search and Rescue team (JOSAR), Access Fund, and the American Alpine Club.

The three-day event features clinics focused on a distinctly old-school discipline: traditional climbing. According to rock-climbing resource Mountain Project, Joshua Tree National Park has a staggering 4,100 roped climbs. Of these, 3,387 are trad—and more than half of those are graded 5.10 and above.

“It’s a benchmark event for all Joshua Tree climbers, both aspiring and seasoned,” remarked Dave Pylman, executive director of FOJT and co-captain of JOSAR. “It’s crucial for all climbers to understand both the fundamentals of trad climbing and how to climb safely across all disciplines—bouldering, sport, and trad—in order to enjoy all the incredible, challenging routes Joshua Tree has to offer.”

Climb Smart 2014 is open to climbers of all levels looking to brush up their climbing skills, from proper movement technique to anchor system assessment, as well as network with other climbers and have fun—all while giving back to Joshua Tree National Park. And, of course, there will be plenty of open climbing opportunities to put those new or newly-polished skills to the test. Alongside the clinics, there will be a screening of Reel Rock 9’s highly anticipated documentary feature Valley Uprising at the Joshua Tree Astronomy Arts Theater, dinners on Friday and Saturday night, and special athlete appearances throughout the weekend.

“Not only is Climb Smart a fantastic event promoting education and stewardship, it’s also a truly communal gathering,” added Pylman. “To have hundreds of climbers come together to celebrate the natural beauty of Joshua Tree, support JOSAR’s dedicated volunteers, and build relationships with fellow climbers is a wholly unique opportunity. It’s an event that has to be experienced to be appreciated.”

More information—including ticket links and the final clinic schedule—is available on Climb Smart’s Facebook page, accessible at www.facebook.com/fojtclimbsmart. Visit www.friendsofjosh.org for more information and news about FOJT, JOSAR, and their efforts within Joshua Tree National Park.

Contact

David Pylman
Executive Director, Friends of Joshua Tree
714-747-5057
purpledave21@gmail.com

Logo courtesy Friends of Joshua Tree