Best Rock Climbing Gyms & Outdoor Crags for Beginners in the Bay Area

Question
I am planning to go for a beginner's rock climbing lesson the coming weekend. Just wanted to know if you knew any good places to learn for a beginner in Bay Area, California.

Answer
Dear Vishal---the classic crags in the Bay Area are Castle Rock in the South Bay, Indian Rock (?) in Berkeley, and Mt. Diablo in the SE Bay. There are also a few crags in Marin, on the coast.

To find more about the areas, please see www.rockclimbing.com------------go their index of areas.

The best, closest, nearby area is down south at Pinnacles National Monument.

Remember, climbing is a unique melding of gymnastics and craftsmanship. The craft is handling all the gear and the challenges of the natural environment.

For more on climbing safety, please see, my book, "Ultrasafe, A Guide to Safer Rock Climbing," available at Amazon.com.

Good Luck

George Allen