This event is weather permitting, and open for queer climbers that have registered for the skills share only. We will notify registered climbers as early as possible of any changes.

About Sugar Loaf Bluff

Sugar Loaf is an iconic place in Winona, MN. Sitting approx 600 ft above Winona, the Sugarloaf is a unique man-made tower; a result from quarrying in the 1800s. It offers routes on all aspects of the tower ranging from 5.3- 5.11 in difficulty. The majority of routes are in the 5.6-5.9 range.

Getting there

At the intersection of Mankato Ave and Highway 61 in Winona, head south on 43 to a quick right hand turn to E Lake Blvd to a parking area with signs for" Sugarloaf Trailhead parking". The trailhead is behind edina reality. Please DO NOT park in the Treasure Under Sugarloaf parking lot or Edina Reality's lot. All parking is on the side of the road.<p>Once on the trail here is a steep approach that is 1/2 mile long. This can be strenuous so feel free to take breaks. At the fork turn left at the sign following the yellow arrow towards Sugarloaf, not the Ice Park. Then you'll pass some sandstone, this is not where we will be climbing so stop to look at the view and keep climbing.

Gear

• Required

  • Sturdy Hiking Shoes

  • Climbing Shoes

  • Harness

  • Belay Device with Locking Carabiner

  • Helmet

  • Single Length (60cm 24") Nylon sling with Locking Carabiner

  • Additional locking Carabiner

• Optional

  • Petzel Grigri or Edelrid Jul or similar assited belay device with Carabiner

  • Personal Anchor System such as Petzl Connect or Metolius Pas with Locking Carabiner

  • Climbers with out shoes are recommended to rent from the University of Minnesota or REI.

  • Helmets will be required when belaying, and otherwise highly recommended at the base of the climb, including when tying in. Helmets can also be rented from the the University of Minnesota or REI.

  • Belay devices will be used in the skills share and during climbing. If you own a tube style belay device please bring it even if you have a GriGri or other belay device.

Any climbers that cannot get the required gear should reach out to leadership via help@outclimb.gay

What to Bring

Pack for a day hike, and bring all your climbing stuff (chalk, shoes, harness, helmet, etc.). Bring a large water bottle and lunch. We suggest bringing at least 2L for a single person, a 2L soda bottle works well for this. Other recommendations include sunglasses that you can get dirty, a sweat towel/bandana, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, extra snacks, and sandles to lounge in.

Carpool

If you plan on participating in the car pool we will meet at 7am, as it is a 2 hour drive. The carpool meets at the Park & Ride at 1559 Eustis in St Paul. (appox Hwy 280 and Como Ave)