How to Climb a Chimney in Rock Climbing

Chimney climbing is often required on longer traditional climbs. It's a valuable skill to have for classics and big walls.

Things You'll Need

  • Climbing Gear
  • Climbing Harnesses
  • Climbing Helmets
  • Climbing Ropes
  • Climbing Shoes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Climb into the chimney and face one of the side walls (put your back against the wall with the lowest angle).

    • 2

      Place a foot on the wall in front of you (about knee high if possible).

    • 3

      Position your other foot flat against the back wall underneath your rear.

    • 4

      Place your hands on opposite walls, palms against the rock, with your thumbs down in a mantle position.

    • 5

      Push up with your legs and arms at the same time until you're fully extended.

    • 6

      Switch feet - place your back foot on the forward wall about knee high, and place your forward foot on the back wall under your rear.

    • 7

      Move your hands up.

    • 8

      Push up again.

    • 9

      Repeat the procedure and continue alternating feet and hands as you ascend.