Yes, we recommend that participants have some prior outdoor climbing experience or feel comfortable following a guide on multiple pitches. While the Stolen Chimney route is well-protected and moderately graded, it is still a committing climb with significant exposure.

The Stolen Chimney route is considered a moderate desert trad climb (rated around 5.8). Climbers will encounter chimneys, face climbing, and traverses. While not technically difficult, it does involve multiple pitches, exposure, and the unique corkscrew summit finish.

Ancient Art is unlike any other climb in the desert. Its corkscrew summit is one of the most photographed climbing objectives in the world. While our half-day climbing trips introduce you to local walls and single-pitch routes, the Ancient Art climb is a full-day, big-objective adventure that rewards climbers with one of the most exciting summits anywhere.

The approach to the tower takes about 30–45 minutes on a well-marked trail, followed by a steeper climber’s path to the base.

Stolen Chimney is a very popular climb. Your guide will manage timing and strategy to minimize delays, but wait times are sometimes part of the experience. Patience is key—and the reward is absolutely worth it.

Here’s how our classic Moab-area multi-pitch climbs compare, from most approachable to most challenging:

• Looking Glass Arch: A great intro to multi-pitch climbing. This moderate climb tops out on a massive sandstone arch, followed by a thrilling rappel through the span—perfect for beginners or those new to desert towers.
• Ancient Art: Famous for its wild corkscrew summit. Shorter and less committing than the bigger towers, but with a dramatic and unforgettable finish. A great next step up from Looking Glass.
• Independence Monument: A historic desert tower in Colorado National Monument. This is a longer, full-day climb with more pitches, offering a mix of history, scenery, and adventure for climbers ready for a bigger objective.
• Castleton Tower: One of the most iconic desert climbs in the world. More physically demanding and committing than the others, it’s best suited for climbers with prior outdoor experience looking for a true bucket-list achievement.