GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Stand on a Corkscrew: Multipitch Climbs of Terma, Ancient Art and Abraxis
A guided, half‑day set of desert tower multipitch climbs led by Elevate Outdoors — this guide explains routes, requirements and what to expect.
Stand on a Corkscrew: Multipitch Climbs of Terma, Ancient Art and Abraxis.
These are desert tower multipitch climbs that range from face‑climbing to sustained crack routes: Terma is a three‑pitch face route that finishes on the rim; Ancient Art is a corkscrew summit in the Fisher Towers area with a signature “diving board” feature; and Abraxis is a four‑pitch crack line mixing hand cracks, off‑width and chimney. Trips run roughly four to six hours and are best undertaken with some prior climbing experience.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Fisher Towers and Desert Towers
The climbs sit on unusually sculpted desert towers — Ancient Art’s corkscrew summit and the sandy, faceable rock of Terma make for an arresting desert‑tower experience.
Three Distinct Multipitch Experiences
Choose Terma for an almost entirely face‑climbing three‑pitch route that finishes on the rim; Ancient Art for a unique summit and the infamous diving board; or Abraxis for a four‑pitch crack sequence featuring hand crack, off‑width and chimney climbing.
Grades, Approach and Technical Support
Trips require prior climbing experience: most climbs expect comfortable gym climbing at about 5.8, while Abraxis is aimed at climbers comfortable around 5.9+; there is also a steep ~30‑minute approach on some routes. All technical climbing equipment is provided by the operator.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Expect a compact, focused outing: a steep ~30‑minute approach deposits you at the tower base, then a succession of pitched climbs — three pitches for Terma, a multipitch ascent and exposed summit experience on Ancient Art, or four crack pitches on Abraxis — before a descent. The climbing mixes sustained face moves on sandy rock and traditional crack techniques depending on the route; guide support and provided technical gear keep the outing efficient within a four‑to‑six‑hour window.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who these climbs suit — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Water, snacks, sunscreen, a small backpack, hiking shoes, sunglasses, chapstick and a hat are recommended. All technical climbing equipment is provided by the operator; indicate which climb you are booking when prompted.
Trips run approximately four to six hours; expect a steep approach of roughly 30 minutes to reach some tower bases.
Elevate Outdoors provides technical climbing gear and guides; customers should note which specific tower (Terma, Ancient Art or Abraxis) they are booking.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the climb take?
Guided outings typically run four to six hours from approach to return.
What climbing experience do I need?
Some previous climbing experience is required; most routes expect participants to be able to climb 5.8 comfortably in a gym, while Abraxis targets climbers comfortable at about 5.9+.
What is the minimum age?
Terma accepts ages 10 and up; Ancient Art and Abraxis require participants to be at least 12 years old.
Do I need to bring climbing gear?
No technical climbing gear is required from participants: the operator provides all technical climbing equipment. Bring personal items like water, snacks and sun protection.
How strenuous is the approach?
Expect a steep approach of about 30 minutes to reach some tower bases before the multipitch climbing begins.