Embarking on the thrilling adventure of rock climbing is an exciting prospect, but for those starting out, it can also be extremely daunting. In this guide, I’ll give you the 5 best ways to start rock climbing in 2025, offering insights and tips for beginners to confidently start their ascent into the climbing world. So here are the best 5 ways to start rock climbing in 2024!
1.Join A Club
Look out for clubs that may be around your area. If you’re in university then look into joining a climbing society. Here’s a list of the top climbing clubs in Ireland!
- Irish Mountaineering Club
- Dal Riada Climbing Club
- Dublin Cliffhangers (Youth)
- Colmcille Climbers
2. Join Online Groups
I got into the amazing world of rock climbing through an online forum over at climbing.ie. I had seen a trailer for the documentary First Ascent, and I wanted in. I put a post up and within a few hours I someone had responded and within a week I was rock climbing. I still climb with that person today!
The Facebook groups are active, so I reccomend starting here:
- Irish Climbers
- Irish Bouldering
- Colmcille Climbers
BE CAREFUL: Going climbing with some randomer from an
online group can go one of two ways a) You meet a life long time
climbing amigo B) You meet an idiot that has no idea what they’re doing,
pretend they do and almost get you killed.
3.Book A Course
Booking on to a course ensures that you’re in safe hands (remember to check that your guide is qualified). At Wild Summits, we run climbing courses for complete beginners, to gym hardened climbers looking to learn the ropes outside. We also offer mutli-pitch guiding days in the beautiful Glendalough.
4. Join A Climbing Gym
This one is a little trickier and it’s success depends on your personality and confidence. For me, I tend to stick to myself in the gym environment. But approaching people in the climbing wall is a great way to get in with some groups.
