Lone Vegas

Sometimes we have to climb alone (or with a guide)

In December I found myself on a business trip in Las Vegas. None of my colleagues climb and I only had my shoes, harness and a chalk bag! This is where just calling a guide in can be super handy. The American Alpine Institute are professional and efficient, they returned my call within minutes and had someone free on Friday, a brilliant chap called Alex

Alex recommended the Red Riding Hood area as I had to get to the airport after climbing and I couldn’t risk missing my flight. This area was less than 15 minutes walk in

We started the day on Big Bad Wolf (5.9). Alex offered me the second pitch to lead.

After red riding hood Alex took me up physical graffiti (5.6) which gave the most comfortable jamming I’ve ever experienced. Friction was amazing but without the sharp crystals of Grit.

We then did woodsman (5.9) which I thought was brilliant before moving onto a ‘boulder’ where we did a number of sports routes going from 5.8 – 5.10

It’s always better to climb with friends but when that isn’t possible a guide can provide a perfect partner. Alex was brilliant and whilst I could have just climbed with someone off the internet I knew Alex would be safe and have all of the gear