Your first climb starts here

New to climbing? You do not need to arrive knowing all the terms or with a big goal in mind. Start by getting familiar with the space, asking questions, and finding a climb you want to try. Here is how to prepare for your first visit to BaseCamp at Whitney Peak Hotel in downtown Reno.

Choose how you want to climb

Bouldering means climbing shorter routes without a rope, above padded flooring. It is a chance to work through a few moves at a time, rest, and try a different approach. BaseCamp’s indoor boulders offer options for beginners and experienced climbers. Explore our boulders to get a feel for the space.

Roped climbing uses a harness and a belay system on taller walls. BaseCamp’s outdoor climbing area offers auto-belay, top-rope, and lead-climbing options. These are different systems with different skills and checks. Ask our staff which options fit your experience, and get the required instruction and approval before using any equipment.

Curious about the Big Wall? Read about our outdoor walls and check the separate Climb to the Top booking for that experience. Outdoor climbing can be affected by weather, so confirm availability before planning your visit around it.

Before you leave home

Review pricing and pass options, then use our official booking portal to check the details of the option you choose. Look at the rental terms as well as admission so you know what you are purchasing.

Complete your liability waiver ahead of time to help check-in go more smoothly. For participants under 18, the waiver must be signed by a parent or court-appointed legal guardian. A friend, relative, or group leader cannot sign in their place.

What to bring

• Comfortable clothes that let you reach, bend, and step freely.
• A water bottle and time to take breaks.
• Your climbing gear if you already have it. If not, rental gear is available; check the current rental options with your pass.
• Any confirmation or eligibility information associated with the pass or booking you selected.

Start at the front desk

You will find BaseCamp on the second floor of Whitney Peak Hotel. Stop at the front desk before heading to the walls and let us know this is your first visit. Have your waiver and pass or reservation details ready, and ask about the rental gear you need.

Give yourself room to get settled rather than rushing straight into a climb. This is a good time to ask where to put your belongings, which areas are open, and where to begin.

Ask about orientation before you climb

At check-in, ask which orientation, equipment instruction, and proficiency checks apply to the climbing you want to do. Before starting, make sure you understand the gym’s rules, how the route labels work, and how to use the relevant climbing and landing areas. Ask staff to explain anything that is unfamiliar.

If you want more structured instruction, check our booking portal for the current options and dates, or contact the front desk before you come. Do not assume that a lesson is included with admission or available as a walk-in.

Make the first session your own

You do not have to climb the biggest wall on day one. Ask for a suitable starting climb, take your time, and rest between attempts. Stay out of other climbers’ landing areas and follow staff instructions. Learning how to move, trying a new hold, or getting comfortable in the gym can be enough for a first session.

If you are bringing children, check supervision requirements with the front desk before your visit. Completing a waiver does not replace supervision or the instructions given at the gym.

Ready to plan your visit?

Start with pricing and pass options, complete your waiver, and head to the official booking portal to choose your next step. Questions before you arrive? Call (775) 398-5443 or email basecampsales@whitneypeakhotel.com.