How to Climb a Chimney in Rock Climbing

Introduction
Chimney climbing is often required on longer traditional climbs. It’s a valuable skill to have for classics and big walls.

Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate

Steps

Step One
Climb into the chimney and face one of the side walls (put your back against the wall with the lowest angle).

Step Two
Place a foot on the wall in front of you (about knee high if possible).

Step Three
Position your other foot flat against the back wall underneath your rear.

Step Four
Place your hands on opposite walls, palms against the rock, with your thumbs down in a mantle position.

Step Five
Push up with your legs and arms at the same time until you’re fully extended.

Step Six
Switch feet - place your back foot on the forward wall about knee high, and place your forward foot on the back wall under your rear.

Step Seven
Move your hands up.

Step Eight
Push up again.

Step Nine
Repeat the procedure and continue alternating feet and hands as you ascend.

Tips & Warnings

Practice climbing an easy chimney first. The chimney-climbing technique isn’t difficult but it can be awkward at first, and chimneys can be difficult to protect.
If the chimney is tight (3 feet wide or less), it helps to use both hands in front of you, thumbs down.
It may help to wear long sleeves and long pants when you’re learning how to climb chimneys.
Look for foot- and handholds as you ascend the chimney. This may offer additional purchase and needed rest.
It may be possible to rest without using your arms. If your feet are secure, your weight will rest mostly on the back foot.
Protection can be difficult in chimneys, but consider the back of the chimney (use long runners), and around trees and chock stones inside the chimney.
Beware of wearing a backpack or hydration pack while climbing a chimney. Additional bulk on your back may prevent you from getting up the pitch.
Climbing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.