# 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.
- Title: Native American Climber John Duran on Free Soloing 5.13
- Summary: John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China. john duran, southern ute, free soloing · reported by Climbing.
- Keywords: john duran, southern ute, free soloing, 5.13, cochiti mesa, beijing, montessori, climbing community, sports, travel, Native, American
- Source: Climbing — https://climbing.com/culture-climbing/native-american-john-duran-on-free-soloing-5-13-and-using-climbing-for-communal-good
- Author: John Duran
- Published: 2026-10-12T13:09:16+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: john duran, southern ute, free soloing, 5.13, cochiti mesa, beijing, montessori, climbing community, sports, travel
## John Duran's climbing background
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 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.
## Key takeaway

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