If I could give this experience 6/5 stars, I absolutely would! I attended the Chillino Sessions at Mission trails San Diego this past weekend, and it was everything I hoped for and more. While I have indoor climbing experience, I wanted a safe and structured environment to transition to outdoor climbing and develop new skills--and this session delivered.
The 15-minute hike up is definitely a challenge, but our guides made sure we took plenty of breaks. Our instructors, Fabi (the owner) and Kyle, were phenomenal. From the start, Fabi asked each of us what we wanted to learn and tailored the session accordingly. I was eager to learn how to set up an anchor, so he took a small group aside to teach us in detail, while Kyle worked with those ready to start climbing.
Fabi's instruction was incredibly thorough, and safety was always the top priority--which I really appreciated. On top of anchor-building, I also learned how to rappel safely and execute a proper hand jam in a crack. Both Fabi and Kyle were patient, knowledgeable, and super encouraging. I felt completely safe the entire time, and they were more than happy to answer any questions we had.
Now, I'm feeling that satisfying post-climb soreness, and I can't wait to come back! This experience was worth every penny for the skills, confidence, and safety knowledge I gained. Even with a two-hour drive from OC, I'll definitely be back when I get another free weekend.
If you're considering booking--do it! And don't forget to tip your guides--they truly deserve it for the incredible experience...
Read moreThis was SO MUCH FUN!!! A friend of ours put together a trip to Joshua Tree for a climbing adventure for 7 of us. This would be my first time climbing outdoors, and only my 3rd time climbing, at all. My boyfriend and I would definitely be ranked as beginners. Upon our arrival, Fabi and Mike greeted us warmly in the parking lot Nd let us to the spot where everything was already set up and ready to go. They outfitted us with harnesses and shoes and made sure we were comfortable and properly fitted. They gave us a lesson in proper knot tying and quickly answered any questions we threw their way. Prior to climbing, they also made sure the belayer was properly trained, and able to handle the task of making sure their climber could climb up and that they could also lower them safely back to the ground. There were 7 of us, and 2 guides, and I felt like the attention was one on one. Whenever a question or concern would arise, we could easily ask either Fabi or Mike, and they were right there to help! They helped any way they could, and even took on the task of belaying us on occasion. They were quick to offer the climbers tips on handholds and where to put our feet to help us succeed in getting to the top. We also got a surprise lesson in rappelling which was terrifying, fun and unexpected!
In summary, this was a fabulously planned and well put together adventure. I don't think there is anything they could do to improve...
Read moreUNBELIEVABLE!! With Fabi, you will get the best instruction, the best challenge, the safest environment, and a love and appreciation for rock climbing! My friend and I booked a day of rock climbing in Joshua Tree. Both of us are athletic, but neither of us had that much experience with climbing. We wanted to learn about climbing as well as having just a great day on the rocks, and Fabi gave us that! At our request, he taught us some of the history and ethics of rock climbing, the rating system, how to read about different routes, and how we might one day be able to do climbs on our own (but was also very realistic that this would not happen immediately!). His explanation of how to climb, how to belay, how to rappel, and how to achieve complicated sections was precise, explained simply but with detail, and gave us all the information we needed to do it. He also DEFINITELY challenged us! Never did we think we would be doing the climbs that we did during our day, but it was because he's a great teacher and is able to know what the students are capable of. He also provides all the gear you need (multiple sizes so you can have the right shoes), and gives you the FULL day experience that you sign up for! You will not be disappointed to book a day with Fabi, and we can't wait to book our next adventure with him (probably in...
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