The Salt Lake Climbers Alliance is gearing up for its 12th annual climbing festival, scheduled for next Saturday at The Notch Pub in Samak. This event not only promises a day of celebration but also serves a greater cause for Utah’s climbing community.
Originally a volunteer-driven gathering in the picturesque Cottonwood Canyons, this festival has evolved into a hallmark event for climbers across the region. Over the years, the festival has moved venues from locations like Alta, Brighton, and Solitude to Camp Steiner and Camp Rogers, inviting climbers to unite. This summer, the festive spirit returns to The Notch, aptly described as ‘your last stop before the Uintas.’
This year’s festival introduces a notable change; it will be condensed into a single day rather than a weekend-long event. Sarah Allen, the events and sponsorship coordinator for Salt Lake Climbers Alliance, explained that the decision stems from an increase in monthly events throughout the year, which now includes a film festival, speaker series, and a winter soiree fundraiser among others.
The shift in focus aims to offer variety and adapt to the evolving needs of the climbing community. With The Notch acting as the day’s basecamp, festival ticket holders will enjoy a range of activities. Every ticket comes with access to a morning climbers’ meet-up and breakfast, courtesy of Alpha Coffee, along with gear demonstrations from leading outdoor brands.
The Vendor Village will showcase prominent companies such as Backcountry, REI, Scarpa, Petzl, and Momentum Climbing. This setup will allow attendees to engage with industry experts, test out new gear, and connect with potential climbing partners.
A standout feature of the festival will be the guided climbing clinics offered by local and statewide outfitters. Participants can choose from a range of clinics tailored to various skill levels, from those transitioning from gym to outdoor climbing to advanced techniques like multi-pitch and traditional climbing.
Spaces in these clinics are limited, and attendees must purchase a festival ticket before registering for a clinic. Francis Kopp, a climbing guide and winter store manager at White Pine Touring, highlighted the advantage of learning from professional guides who can tailor their instruction to each climber’s experience and learning style, all while imparting essential safety standards.
One of the clinics led by White Pine Touring will focus on anchor cleaning and rappelling, both crucial topics in climbing safety. Kopp noted that these skills are vital, as they often factor into outdoor recreation accidents. He emphasized that even experienced climbers can benefit from a review of their techniques to enhance safety and efficiency, particularly highlighting the importance of effective communication between climbers and their belayers.
Clinics will occur at various crags in the Uintas, selected by guides based on the skills being taught. Festival-goers not enrolled in clinics can participate in leisurely activities before returning to The Notch for the evening festivities.
The highlight of the festival will culminate in dinner, drinks, and live music at The Notch, transforming the gathering into a lively party atmosphere. Special guests at the event will include professional climbers, among them Rab athlete Hayden Jamieson and renowned big-wall climber Tommy Caldwell.
To extend the experience, White Pine Touring will also host a ‘Let’s Go Climbing’ clinic on Sunday, encouraging visitors to partake in additional climbing opportunities. Kopp noted that this added activity allows attendees to maximize their time, especially for those camping nearby on Saturday night.
Festival attendees will receive a 50% discount on White Pine Touring climbing clinics by using the code WPTSLCA2025 during registration. While the festival is an occasion to celebrate, it also serves as a significant fundraiser for the Salt Lake Climbers Alliance’s mission. Proceeds will support initiatives aimed at protecting Utah climbing areas through advocacy, hardware maintenance, and trail stewardship.
The alliance works extensively across northern Utah, from the Cottonwood Canyons to Echo Canyon, Maple Canyon, and American Fork. Notably, their paid anchor replacement team—unique in the nation—spends nearly ten weeks each year upgrading climbing hardware and improving access to climbing areas.
Additionally, the organization keeps its members informed about land-use issues and conservation efforts via monthly newsletters and partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service, Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, and various land managers. Attendees are encouraged to engage by volunteering, signing petitions, or participating in stewardship days.
With a focus on both celebration and community impact, this year’s festival promises to be a memorable event for climbers and supporters alike.
image source from：parkrecord
