Testimonials
As of January 2024, In Stone has joined with Vertical Adventures Rock Climbing School. Since 1983, Vertical Adventures has been Joshua Tree’s leading rock climbing school and was ranked #1 in America by Outside Magazine in their list of America’s top adventure schools.
Please visit us at Vertical Adventures Climbing School for current pricing and information »
"Climbing under the tutelage of Chris Baumann has been one of the finest experiences in my life. He is patient and kind, an expert in the sport of rock climbing and a safety nut. But more than that, he has the innate ability to identify one's strengths and method of learning - even for us dyslexic types! Chris then creates a perfectly tailored climb for you. This experience has given me exhilaration, a no fear attitude, a stillness and frame of mind that keeps me "in the moment" where life is most enjoyed."
"Rock climbing lessons with Chris Baumann were fabulous. It was an exhilarating experience for all of us first time outdoor climbers. He was kind, knowledgeable and most importantly, patient! We couldn't have hoped for a better experience. We are already planning our next climb with Chris!"
"The rock climbing guide, Chris Baumann, was outstanding. We have been on several other rock climbing trips, and Chris was hands down the best guide we have had (and we liked the others.) His relaxed, low-key approach was great for our group, but at the same time he was obviously very safety oriented. One of the members of our group, a 4th grader, became very frightened about halfway up the rock face. Without any fuss or drama, Chris mounted a rescue, and his cheerful, encouraging approach soon had the boy climbing again, with great enjoyment. We all had a great day."
"Spending time on the rock with Chris was the highlight of my trip. He provided confidence, reassurance and above all else, fun! Chris is a terrific climber and guide. Memories are bliss!"
"I spent three full days rock climbing with Chris, one by myself and two with my kids, ages 9 and 12. Chris was a great instructor. He listened to what climbing I had done in the past and what I really wanted to focus on learning. His absolute concern for safety impressed me the most, especially having two young climbers. His emphasis on the personal "touch" towards guiding was very comforting especially on our multi-pitch climb and other tense moments. My kids were especially relaxed around Chris, which I think helped them learn at an accelerated rate. Chris has a special gift when relating to kids. I would recommend Chris to anyone interested in learning to rock climb correctly."
"I liked climbing with Chris. I learned how to go up really steep cliffs. I liked rappelling. His dog Bean was really nice. I hope I can go rock climbing again."
"Together with my husband, his teenage daughter and her friend, we learned to scale rock at Donner Summit. What an exciting day we had! Our instructor, Chris Baumann, taught us necessary safety skills and gave us the confidence to climb a wall over 60ft high and rappel down. We felt so safe we even learned to climb blindfolded! He is skilled, knowledgeable, patient and filled with encouragement. We can’t wait to learn more and climb with “In Stone” again. Thanks Chris for providing our family with a really thrilling day!"
"With a friend, both of us first-time climbers, we met Chris at a rock face at Donner Summit and had an absolutely fantastic time - and hooked us on climbing. It was much more than I expected for a first time out, trying different types of climbing, learned a lot and left me excited to learn more. Chris was a great instructor and I look forward to future climbing adventures."
"Chris was a great rock climbing instructor. He was friendly and taught me a lot. He showed me how to climb up a 5.9 face with almost nothing to hold on to. It was very cool. I want to learn a lot more next time. His dog Bean was friendly too."
