One Weekend a Year, Lander Becomes the Epicenter of the Rock Climbing World

Each July, the quaint town of Lander, Wyoming, transforms into a bustling hub for climbers worldwide during the International Climbers' Festival.

Established in 1994, this festival has grown into the longest-running event of its kind in the United States, drawing enthusiasts from across the globe.

In 2024, the festival celebrated its 32nd year, continuing its tradition of fostering community and adventure.

The festival's success is deeply rooted in Lander's unique climbing terrain.

The area boasts over 1,000 established sport-climbing routes, particularly in Sinks Canyon and Wild Iris, renowned for their pocketed limestone cliffs.

These formations offer challenges suitable for climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

One of the festival's standout events is the Limestone Rodeo, an all-day partner competition that spans various climbing routes around Lander.

Participants have eight hours to climb as many pitches as possible, with points awarded based on difficulty and other unique challenges.

This event not only tests physical endurance but also strategic planning and teamwork.

Beyond the climbs, the festival offers a rich tapestry of activities.

The Central Bank & Trust Art Crawl showcases local artists and artisans along Main Street, blending the worlds of art and climbing culture.

Workshops, film screenings, and keynote speeches by climbing luminaries provide both education and inspiration.

In 2024, speakers included renowned figures like Volker Schoffl, a senior physician specializing in climbing injuries, and Kitty Calhoun, one of the top female mountaineers globally.

The festival's impact extends beyond recreation.

Climbers contribute significantly to Lander's economy, with an estimated $4.5 million injected annually.

Local businesses thrive during the festival, catering to the influx of visitors seeking gear, food, and lodging.

Moreover, the event emphasizes stewardship and community engagement, with proceeds supporting local non-profits like the Central Wyoming Climbers' Alliance, dedicated to protecting and developing climbing resources.

For many attendees, the festival is more than just an event; it's a homecoming.

Climbers from various backgrounds converge, sharing stories, techniques, and a mutual passion for the sport.

As one participant noted, "My favorite thing about the festival is the people.

And it doesn't matter whether it's friends that I've known for 30 years, 40 years, or the people I [just] met."

As the sun sets over the Wind River Range, the echoes of climbers' laughter and the clinking of gear fade, but the spirit of the International Climbers' Festival lingers, a testament to Lander's enduring place in the heart of the climbing community.