WSU Outdoor Program Hosts Region’s Premier Climbing Festival
OGDEN, Utah – The Weber State University Outdoor Program, GEAR:30 and the Front Climbing Club will host the 12th Ogden Climbing Festival (OCF12) April 12-13.
As the premier climbing event in the region, OCF brings together climbers from all disciplines to introduce them to the best of Ogden’s climbing opportunities.
“I believe the different aspects of the festival make it unique and allow people to engage at their own skill level,” said Daniel Turner, WSU Outdoor Program assistant director. “The OCF has something for everyone, from the beginner to the professional. I have met many climbers who got their start at the festival.”
The OCF boasts two days of events from educational climbing clinics, stewardship and service opportunities, equipment demonstrations, competitions and world-renown keynote speaker, Sonnie Trotter.
Trotter, a professional climber from Canada, has been climbing for 24 years. Most of his efforts have focused on first ascents and exploring new terrain. Trotter recently made headlines with a first free ascent of El Capitan’s North America Wall, which he climbed in 13 hours, leading all 26 pitches. He worked with Tommy Caldwell at belay.
“Everyone should come out to the OCF,” Turner said. “Even those who have just seen climbing in the media and want to know more, or those who are looking for a new way to engage in the outdoors. There is truly something for everyone.”
Event Schedule:
April 12
Equipment Demo and Citizens Climbing Competition
5:30-9:30 p.m., The Front Climbing Club (225 20th St., Ogden)
Participants will be able to try equipment from the climbing industry’s leading brands and register for the OCF12 citizens’ climbing competition. Thousands of dollars in prizes and raffles are up for grabs.
April 13
Stewardship Event: Trail Work and Crag Cleanup
8 a.m.-noon, Saint Joseph High School parking lot. (1790 Lake St., Ogden)
Participants will help improve access trails and prevent erosion in the Ogden Boulder Field and Schoolhouse Climbing area. The stewardship event will run rain or shine. Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather and to bring gloves. Free lunch will be provided by Lucky Slice after the cleanup.
Educational Climbing Clinics
1-5 p.m. Lower Ogden Boulder Field. Park and check-in at Saint Joseph High School parking lot. (1790 Lake St., Ogden)
Top educators and professional mountain guides will introduce participants to cutting-edge ideas and techniques. Registration is required as clinics are expected to fill to capacity. Pre-registration is recommended as day-of registration may not be possible. Cost is free - $20. Register at the OCF clinics website.
Sonnie Trotter, OCF12 Keynote Presenter
7:30-9 p.m., Ogden Monarch Building (451-499 25th St., Ogden)
Food and beverage are provided. Trotter’s presentation will be followed by a raffle and prizes. Tickets are required as space is limited. Tickets are $20 general admission/$30 VIP. Price includes raffle ticket. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the OCF website.
Visit weber.edu/ogdenclimbingfestival for more information.
For the poster and photos, visit the following links.
Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
Ross Rosier, Office of Marketing & Communications
801-626-7948 • rossrosier@weber.edu- Contact:
Daniel Turner, Outdoor Program assistant director
801-626-7354 • danielturner1@weber.edu