Gunks Rock Climbing

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Climb the iconic cliff band in North America with a certified guide. The Shawangunks—AKA “the Gunks”—offers classic routes, steep rock, and rewarding climbing movement that will make you feel like a hero. Whether it’s your first day outside or you’re chasing the classics, you’ll get a focused, professional experience tailored to your goals. All Gunks programs are guided by Paul Rachele, AMGA/IFMGA Mountain Guide.

    • Professional certification: Certified by the American Mountain Guides Association and internationally accredited through the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations

    • Instructional experience: Paul’s background as an educator informs his clear, efficient coaching that builds skills you’ll actually use

    • Local knowledge: Route selection, timing, and tactics that maximize your day

    • Technical knowledge: Simple and strong anchors, efficient transitions on the up and down, and the ability to scaffold skills so that you learn more without being overloaded

  • Intro to Outdoor Climbing
    New to the Gunks or outdoor climbing? Learn movement on real rock, top-rope systems, belaying, and basic anchor concepts.
    Perfect for: first-timers or gym climbers going outside

    Classic Gunks Multi-Pitch Day
    Climb the routes you’ve heard about—moderate classics with incredible exposure. Learn movement, stance management, and efficient transitions.
    Perfect for: climbers comfortable on 5.6–5.9 looking to go higher

    Lead Climbing & Trad Skills
    Dial in gear placement, route reading, and risk management. Build confidence leading or refine your trad systems.
    Perfect for: aspiring leaders or trad climbers wanting sharper systems

    Advanced Movement & Efficiency
    Climb harder routes, or linkup a bunch of classics. Focus on footwork, body positioning, and conserving energy on steep terrain.
    Perfect for: climbers pushing into 5.10 and beyond

    Private Objectives
    Have a specific route or skill in mind? Let’s design the day around your objective.

  • CLICK HERE to download or print this gear list.

    CLOTHING

    • Synthetic/ Wool Sun Hoody

    • Synthetic T-shirt

    • Insulating Layer (weather dependent)

    • Rain Jacket

    • Shorts

    • Climbing Pants

    FOOTWEAR

    • Approach or Hiking Shoes

    • Rock Shoes

    ACCESSORIES

    • Belay / Rappel Gloves - Leather palms work best

    • Backpack (15-25L capacity)

    • Water Bottles (1.5-2 quart capacity)

    • Sunglasses

    • Extra Pair Contact Lens (if you wear them)

    • Sunscreen & Lip Balm

    • Insect Repellent

    • Lunch and Snacks

    • Camera

    TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT (Let me know if you need any of these items)

    • Harness UIAA / CE Certified, fewer than 10 years old and in good condition

    • Helmet UIAA / CE Certified, fewer than 10 years old and in good condition

    • 2 Locking Carabiners

    • Belay Device

  • Season: April–November

    Location: Shawangunks (New Paltz, NY)

    Maximum Ratio: 3:1 for multi-pitch climbing, 4:1 for clinics.

    Sample Agenda:

    • 8 AM meet at trailhead, gear check, plan objectives

    • Approach and warm-up pitches

    • Guided climbing with coaching tailored to your goals

    • Midday skills session (anchors, gear, or movement)

    • Afternoon classic route or progression objective

    • Debrief and takeaways for your next day out

    Length: Full- (7 hours) and half-day (4 hours) trips available.

Rates

Multi-Pitch

  • 1:1 - $547 / person

  • 2:1 - $352 / person

  • 3:1 - $292 / person

Clinics

  • 1:1 - $547 / person

  • 2:1 - $352 / person

  • 3:1 - $292 / person

  • 4:1 - $267 / person

Rates are for full days. Contact Core for bigger groups or half-day rates.