Reet talks with Jayci Ferrimani, founder of Arizona Climbing Guides and AMGA Certified Rock Guide, about the vast array of outdoor adventures available in southern Arizona. Jayci shares his journey from growing up exploring the mountains of Colorado to becoming a professional rock climbing and canyoneering guide.
They discuss the underrated and surprisingly rugged wilderness found in Arizona's mountains, canyons, and deserts. Jayci highlights how despite its desert reputation, Arizona is teeming with untapped outdoor treasures waiting to be explored.
The conversation dives into the various trips offered by Arizona Climbing Guides:
Canyoneering Tours:
- Tanque Verde Canyon - half-day with 3 rappels up to 90 feet
- Seven Cataracts/Willow Canyon - full day, 5 rappels up to 200 feet
Rock Climbing Areas:
- Cochise Stronghold - granite domes, moderate to hard routes
- Mount Lemmon - year-round sport and trad climbing at 2,000-9,000 feet
- Queen Creek - popular sport crag near Phoenix
- McDowell Mountain Preserve - adventurous trad climbing near Scottsdale
JC also provides an overview of the three main rock climbing disciplines:
- Bouldering
- Sport Climbing
- Traditional (Trad) Climbing
He offers advice for beginners looking to transition from indoor climbing to roping up outside, emphasizing the low-consequence way to start with top-roping.
Jayci and Reet chat about the unique advantages of Tucson - a city surrounded by a multitude of outdoor playgrounds, allowing visitors to combine urban amenities with morning canyoneering, afternoon hiking, and evening breweries all in one day. JC also highlights other local activities like mountain biking and backpacking right from Tucson's doorstep.
Throughout the show, Jayci shares his profound passion for exploring Arizona's wilderness and connecting others to the thrill of adventuring in these rugged landscapes. The episode provides inspiration for visitors and locals alike to get out and experience Arizona's great outdoors.
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