Could someone tell me a good place for a beginner to start outdoor climbing in the SF Bay Area? Thanks.

-- Mike Dahlquist (westiebob7@aol.com), December 18, 1998

Answers

I always liked Mt. Diablo (near Walnut Creek), although the slippery sandstone may be scary to a beginner. But there are a lot of easy routes there (5.5-5.7).

Castle Rock (~SW of Palo Alto) is also a nice place with quite a few easy climbs.

A bit farther south but also with plenty of easier routes is Pinnacles National Monument.

-George

-- George Bell (bell@advtech.uswest.com), December 18, 1998.

Within 30 mins of SF is Castle Rock State Park. There are nearly 30 plus large sandstone rocks, routes up to 5.13. It is very developed, a great place to climb. It also has a large bouldering complex. A topo book is out there. Most routes can be top roped or lead, what ever you want to do. My fav area is called the underworld. Not to much traffic, and cool formations. Also, try out a route called "Farewell to arms" on the formation called castle rock. Very cool, and quite a pumper

-- WIlliam Tyler (wtyler@inhale.com), November 09, 2000.