Native American Climber John Duran on Free Soloing 5.13

John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China.

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Oct 12, 2026

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Native American Climber John Duran on Free Soloing 5.13

John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China.

In brief

John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China. John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China. Originally reported by Climbing.

John Duran's climbing background

John Duran making the first free solo of Fainting Iman (5.13), Cochiti Mesa, New Mexico, in the mid 1980s.

John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China.

Duran's first free solo

Duran free-soloed Fainting Iman (5.13) at Cochiti Mesa, New Mexico in the mid 1980s.

Duran's family background

Duran's father was a Navajo teacher, mother a Southern Ute and Navajo nurse.

Duran's education journey

Duran's education journey

Duran's parents emphasized education, leading to his teaching career in China.

Climbing for community

Duran created a climbing area in Beijing with village support, attracting 50 people.

Duran's climbing philosophy

Duran used prayer and meditation to build confidence for free soloing.

Duran's community impact

Duran helped teachers on Navajo Reservation get grants and programs.

Duran's personal growth

Duran learned to accept identity and use climbing for community good.

In short

John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China.

Read the original on Climbing

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