rock climbing outdoors Page 7

Thinking of rock climbing outdoors? Grand idea—just treat it with the respect you’d give a drop bear with biceps.

Start with a qualified course or guide; gym grades don’t magically translate to a sunny cliff. Bring the basics: helmet, harness, belay device, a 60 m rope, proper shoes, and a rack suited to the route; double-check anchors and always do partner checks.

Top Aussie crags include the Blue Mountains (NSW), Mt Arapiles and the Grampians/Gariwerd (VIC), the Glass House Mountains (QLD) and Kalbarri (WA)—each with access rules and occasional closures.

Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and leave‑no‑trace manners; brush holds, stay on tracks, and please don’t turn the cliff into a nightclub with your speaker. If in doubt, hire a local guide and build skills steadily—gravity is patient, and the rock isn’t going anywhere.