Climber Story: Cierra Heiser

To start, tell us a little bit about yourself

I'm a 22 year old fun lovin', colored haired, super smiley rock climber! I am also a farmer/gardener by trade, but lately I’ve been up to all sorts of other money making activities (bartending/babysitting/barista/etc).

How did you start climbing?

I started bouldering in a gym when I was 17. I tore my ACL when I was 18 which hucked me into the deep end of rope climbing if I wanted to keep climbing without getting surgery. When I was 19, I started doing tons of weekend trips to Yosemite for multipitches. At 20, I moved into my van to climb full time :)

What impact has climbing had on your life?

Welp, it’s taught me a ton about risk assessment, working well under pressure, and how to be a responsible role model/mentor for others. Rock climbing helps me release my emotions and has shown me how to take good care of myself as well as how to show up for others. It’s also guided me to live in a vehicle and be happy with little money 😂

I could probably go on forever about how it’s changed my life, but to sum it up — I suppose it is endlessly teaching me how to be present with every moment.

What are some other things you do that you find most fulfilling?

I love running long distances! I love cuddling up with a good book! I love spending quality time with my partners, friends, and parents! I love cooking and sharing great meals! I love growing my own food! I love working hard at everything I do! I love human interaction! I love love!

If you could tell the world one thing, what would it be?

Always respond with love. Humans are flawed, so we ought to give everyone the space to make mistakes (yourself included!) and know that forgiveness and kindness will go a looooong way in the end.

Favorite thing about Dynamite Starfish?

I’ve been digging the community representation that y’all have been doing. It’s rad to see real, every-day climbers getting a little spotlight. We can’t all be professionals, so it’s sweet to see some real folks getting attention.

Is there something you're working on that you'd like to tell our community about? We love a good story.

I've just been working a lot on myself honestly. By focusing a lot of energy on growing and healing, I can be the best me for others.

You can find Cierra on Instagram at @cierrarockmama.

Want to get to know more of the climbers in the amazing Dynamite Starfish community? Check out our archive of Climber Stories here.

We hope you have enjoyed these sneak peeks into climbers' lives. We're on a mission to share diverse stories about rock climbing. Let's push the boundaries of who we know as climbers. Let's use our energy and passion for the outdoors to love our environment and inspire one another.

Have someone you think we should feature? Send us a message and let us know!

Until next time!