Climbers from around the world flock to Utah for our wide variety of rocks (hello, "Mission Impossible"). And Salt Lake City's own Brooke Raboutou just made history by being the first U.S. woman in the U.S. to win an Olympic medal in climbing.
Despite my fear of heights, I’ve always had a curiosity about climbing, since it’s so ingrained in our culture here, but found it intimidating to start. Lately, I’ve discovered a number of affinity groups that are playing a vital role in making climbing feel more accessible and inclusive. Here are just a few.
Fat Senders first started as a blog post and has since bloomed into a nonprofit organization with chapters in Salt Lake City and San Diego. It offers a safe space for folks with bigger bodies to feel comfortable climbing, no matter their experience.
- Related: Recs for plus size climbing gear.
CTW is helping break down systemic barriers to make climbing more inclusive for people of color. This includes eliminating financial hurdles and hosting climb nights. They’re currently accepting donations to cover climbing passes, gear, and supplies for events.
- Watch this video: On reclaiming the outdoors by Ashley Cleveland.
SLAQC brings together LGBTQIA+ climbers across the Wasatch Front. They often host joint climb nights with Color the Wasatch to meet the needs of members in the community with intersecting identities.
- Good read: A profile on the organizers of SLAQC on SLUG Mag.
A designated space for women and non-binary folks with chapters nationwide. The closest one is the Wasatch Chapter which hosts events throughout the year.
- Related listening: Ground rules for a more inclusive climbing gym. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]
