This event is by registration only, weather permitting, and open for all queer climbers of any experience and skill levels. 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.
Climbing Gear
Climbing shoes are optional, but strongly recommended to get full enjoyment from the event. Each climber will need to have a Harness and Helmet. We have limited numbers of harnesses and helmets to lend to climbers.
Shoes, harnesses and helmets can be rented from sources in the city such as the University of Minnesota, or REI. Please reserve items in advance and pay attention to the hours the rental centers are open.
What to bring
Pack for a day hike, and bring all your climbing stuff (chalk, shoes, harness, helmet, quickdraws, rope, etc.). Bring a large water bottle and lunch. We suggest bringing at least 2L for a single person, a refilled 2L soda bottle could work well for this. Other recommendations include Sunglasses that you can get dirty, a sweat towel/bandana, hand sanitizer, insect repellant, sunscreen, extra snacks, and sandals to lounge in.
Carpool
If you plan on participating in the car pool we will meet at 6:45am, as it is a 2 hour drive. The carpool meets at the Park & Ride at 1559 Eustis in St Paul. (approx. Hwy 280 and Como Ave)
A Final Note
This is a very popular and large climbing area. We will be moving wherever we can to find open routes and won't leave ropes on the wall any longer than we have to. Do your best to get there at 9:00am if you want to have an easy time finding us and climb all the routes we set up. Otherwise please inform us if you plan on arriving late so we can try to keep our phones on.
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.
Registration
Event is full.