Alpenbock Film Premiere - Industry SLC
EXPERIENCE THE HISTORY OF CLIMBING IN LITTLE COTTONWOOD CANYON
The SLCA and Headlamp Studios are excited to present the Alpenbock Film.
A story that brings the history of Little Cottonwood Canyon to life through the voices of those who lived it, University of Utah first ascensionists in the 1960s and the respective group they formed– The Alpenbock Club. This is a story of passion, grit, culture, and climbing ethics.
As climbing continues to grow in numbers and evolve, the routes and the passion for where we climb remain the same. We have a challenge and responsibility to preserve and protect these iconic climbing landscapes, rich with historical value. Because we can save a place a thousand times, but lose it only once.
It’s more than just climbing, it’s our legacy.
monday, july 6 at industry slc
thank you for a successful first premiere of the alpenbock film
A Night to Remember: Celebrating Alpenbock and the Legacy of Wasatch Climbing
The premiere of Alpenbock at Industry SLC on Monday, July 6th was nothing short of extraordinary. Both screenings sold out, with more than 250 guests filling the room across the evening—an unmistakable testament to the deep love our community holds for climbing in the Wasatch and for the stories and people that shaped it.
The night felt like a reunion of legends. Original Alpenbock Club members—including Ralph Tingey and Milt Hokanson—joined longtime partners and iconic figures in Utah climbing history such as Peter Metcalf, Dave Smith, George Lowe, Bob Springmeyer, and many more. Their presence brought an electric sense of heritage to the room; you could feel decades of shared adventure, mentorship, and grit woven into every conversation.
We were honored to welcome Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, Ted Wilson’s daughter, and her family whose attendance underscored the long-standing connection between local leadership and the stewardship of our outdoor spaces.
The film itself landed beautifully—equal parts history, humor, and heart. Guests laughed, cheered, and reflected together, celebrating not only the Alpenbock Club’s pioneering spirit but also the enduring culture of community-led advocacy that continues today.
Most importantly, the overwhelming support for the film and the SLCA throughout the night reaffirmed something essential: our collective commitment to protecting, maintaining, and celebrating climbing in the Wasatch is stronger than ever. This momentum fuels the work ahead—advocacy, stewardship, and the ongoing effort to ensure that our climbing areas remain accessible, sustainable, and cared for. It was a night of gratitude, connection, and inspiration.
Find photos by Steph Dunn (Basin and Range Photography) below.
Alpenbock film tralier
Want to learn more about the progress & making of the film?
This has been several years in the making and many contributions and efforts have been put in to the creation of this film. Check out the button below to see behind the scenes progress of the film before joining us for the premiere on July 6th or September 3rd.
ALPENBOCK HISTORIC TRAIL & CLIMBING AREA
On August 5th, 2024, Little Cottonwood Canyon (LCC) became America’s first recreational climbing area to be listed in the National Register of Historical Places. The Alpenbock Climbing Club established routes in the historical area and beyond. The Little Cottonwood Canyon Climbing Area holds statewide significance as an excellent representation of a culturally important district in the areas of Recreation and Social History in Salt Lake County, Utah.
