A climbing guide to the Summer Outdoor Retailer Show
Heading to the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market this August? Whether you are a first timer who is new to the show or a veteran who has heard too many clever names for the color blue delivered by a guy in a short-sleeved, plaid shirt, you already know that there is a lot more to the OR show than just wandering the floor. There is also an incredible combination of beauty, access, and quality that makes Salt Lake City one of the best cities for climbing in the U.S.
Getting the most out of your trip while at OR takes some strategizing. If you don’t know where to go, and when, you’ll be missing your 10 am show meetings and still not get any climbing done. Here is our approach and the information that you need to know to get a few pitches in each day, while still having a productive experience on the show floor.
BEFORE THE SHOW
If you can, come in a day or even two early. Giving yourself the time to unwind with some climbing while pre-planning for show meetings can pay off. Showing up at the Salt Palace relaxed and in a good state of mind because you got some time in the vertical is an excellent way to do this. It will also allow you to experience some areas that would be much harder to get to once the show starts. Our suggestion; Cecret Lake at Alta to beat the heat and have a unique alpine cragging experience.
DURING THE SHOW
This is your opportunity to embrace something unique to Salt Lake City, the Dawn Patrol. The idea is often credited to the late Alex Lowe and is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the local outdoor culture. You’ll have to give up a few of the post-show cocktails the night before, and get a 4:30 am start to the day. For the willing, it can be the most rewarding of outdoor experiences. It will feel like cheating when you show up to your 9 am meeting at the show, on time, and having already put away a classic line. Our suggestion; a quick, multi-pitch outing on Steort’s Ridge, or Outside Corner in Big Cottonwood Canyon for a morning you won’t forget.
AFTER THE SHOW
Digesting everything you’ve seen and talked about at OR is going to take a bit. Scheduling yourself a free day after the show helps you organize your thoughts before heading back to a bustling storefront, and an email account bursting at the seams. Leave the show on the last day, jump in the rental car, and drive 2-3 hours to sample some truly unique climbing areas. Our suggestions; City of Rocks National Preserve in Idaho or Maple Canyon, Utah both offer unique climbing experiences in extraordinary settings.
