Talus Scrambling

Channel Your Inner Mountain Goat to Move Through Massive Boulder Fields with Grace and Precision

Talus Scrambling

If you’re excited to spend time on rocks but your group is not quite ready for vertical rock climbing, talus scrambling might be a great activity for you.

“Talus” refers to the 450’ tall slopes of massive, jumbled boulders that adorn the East, West and South Bluffs at Devil’s Lake State Park. “Scrambling” is a mixture of hiking, climbing, balancing, problem-solving, experimenting and cavorting that kids of any age will enjoy.

We recommend a half-day talus scramble for families with young kids, adventuresome hikers looking for the “next level,” and folks who are interested in climbing but nervous to be high above the ground on vertical rock. Talus scrambling involves solving a series of small problems, most only 2-4 steps long, where you can consider your options, watch others before you, take your time, and follow your own path. All the while, the scenery is gorgeous and your team is there to support you.

Talus scrambles are a true guided adventures. While we follow established trails at times, we are usually off-trail, finding our own way. We are usually within sight and sound of popular trails, but the terrain we explore is very rough and evacuation in case of injury would be slow and difficult.

Half Day
(3.5 Hours)

  • GROUP SIZE | PRICE
  • Solo | $325/person
  • 2 pp | $170/person
  • 3 pp | $140/person
  • 4 pp | $115/person
  • 5 pp | $105/person
  • 6 pp | $100/person

EXPERIENCE

  • Hike and scramble a scenic loop, anywhere from 1 to 4 miles

  • Travel a combination of trails and open, cross-country routes

  • Use hands, feet, eyes, and teamwork to navigate rocky, difficult terrain

  • Follow your own path, but also move collectively as a group

  • Visit difficult-to-reach places off the beaten path - we rarely experience crowds and sometimes see no other Park visitors

LOGISTICS

WHEN: March through November, weather permitting. Private course only.

PREREQUISITES: Excitement about athletic movement and embrace of the unknown.

BRING YOUR OWN: Food, water, athletic clothing appropriate for weather, sturdy footwear, camera (optional), sunscreen. We will supply helmets and any other necessary technical equipment.

GROUP SIZE: 1 to 5. Larger groups possible by custom request.