I'll be in the Saint George area with my family and am looking at taking the kids cragging. What kid friendly crags or routes would you recommend for this age group? I suppose somewhere with a safe base area and minimum of loose rock would be best.
I've previously climbed in Snow Canyon and the Prophecy Wall many years ago, so the memory is hazy as too how suitable those would be. I've been climbing for over 20 years and am trying to get the kids (ages 5 and 8) interested and not turn them off with a route that may be too difficult or have a treacherous base, and am not adverse to leading and then TRing off of the anchors (using my own gear, naturally) but would probably be limited to a 60m top-rope since I have been told in no uncertain terms that this is NOT a climbing trip, just a trip that may include climbing.
So long as your trip is before the March 15 closure, Black Rocks will be your best bet down there. Short moderate climbs, easy approach, level base area.
Green Valley Gap is another great place for kids. The wall with Brazilian Ninja is a great intro wall that can made a bit harder or easier depending on the route taken. If they do well at that, a little ways up canyon is route called The Offering that is good for kids. It's in the guidebook but not here on MP, it's just to the left of Hairy Virgin and to the right of Washington's Wig. The first move of Hairy Virgin is too long for my kids, but otherwise it's also good.
If you have decent clearance on your car you can park literally 5 feet from the top of Brazilian Ninja.
I live within walking distance of the Gap and am happy to show you the climbs when you're down here if you are interested. May also drag my little ones along.
Thanks for the tips every one. We'll be there the between the 8th and the 14th so I'll definitely take a look at black rocks before any closures and perhaps the green valley gap as well.