The first time I went rock climbing, it wasn’t love at first sight. My brother and his friend invited me to join them at a slippery limestone quarry. While the day itself was fun—hanging out with my brother and experiencing something new—the climbing itself wasn’t particularly memorable. I remember thinking, “This would be really cool if it weren’t on a broken quarry wall but out in the mountains.”
At that point, I didn’t realize how deeply connected climbing and the mountains truly were. That thought planted a seed that would change my life.
Dalton rock climbing in Yosemite National Park with views of Half Dome. Photo by Dalton Johnson
What Is Rock Climbing?
Rock climbing is the art of ascending vertical or near-vertical rock faces using physical strength, technical skill, and problem-solving ability. For some, it’s a casual hobby. For others, like me, it becomes an obsession.
Rock climbing in Teton National Park with Beau Martino. Photo by Dalton Johnson
How I Fell in Love With Rock Climbing
My real introduction to climbing came later when I attended a NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) course. There, I learned the foundational skills of both sport and trad climbing. Trad climbing, short for traditional climbing, involves placing your own gear into the rock to protect against falls. It’s as adventurous as it sounds—and it instantly appealed to me.
Armed with new knowledge and a passion for exploration, I bought my first climbing rack. This gear marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. I hit the road, living out of my car and chasing rock climbing destinations across the western United States.
I climbed iconic routes in Yosemite, tested my limits on Joshua Tree’s slabs, explored the Tetons, reveled in the granite of the High Sierra, and tackled hidden gems around Lake Tahoe. Every destination brought fresh challenges, incredible views, and a deeper appreciation for the sport.
Rock climbing became more than a pastime—it became my identity. The mountains became my playground, and climbing was my way of connecting with them. Each new summit and harder grade fueled my addiction to the sport.
Bouldering with friends is a great way to get strong and laugh with friends. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why I Keep Climbing
Today, climbing is as central to my life as it was during those road trip days. I balance time between training in the gym and climbing outdoors, typically four or five days a week. I’d climb more if I could! Life’s responsibilities can get in the way, but even a single day out on the rock leaves me smiling, laughing, and grateful.
The beauty of climbing lies in its endless variety. Each route is a puzzle. Each climb challenges not only your body but also your mind. Whether I’m trying to push my grades or simply enjoying the journey to a summit, climbing never fails to bring me joy.
Kristin soaking in the Alaskan sunset after an afternoon of climbing over the Turnagain Arm. Photo by Dalton Johnson
What Rock Climbing Means to Me
To me, rock climbing is freedom. It’s a way to explore breathtaking landscapes, test my limits, and connect with nature. It’s an activity that brings out the best in me—focus, determination, and a sense of wonder. If you’ve ever thought about trying rock climbing, do it. Whether you’re scaling a gym wall or exploring your first outdoor crag, you might discover something more than a new hobby. You might just find a lifelong passion, as I did.
