Introduction to Rock Climbing Course

The Introduction to Rock Climbing course is designed for those who have little to no outdoor rock climbing experience but who want to gain the skills to confidently climb and belay at the local crags. 

Description

In this course you will learn the basics of top-roped outdoor climbing. This includes learning basic climbing knots, belaying skills, climbing techniques, cleaning top rope anchors, and rappelling. At the end of this course, you will be able to safely follow a lead climber on single-pitch sport/crag climbs.  To get the most out of this course, you should plan on practicing at a climbing gym once per week in addition to the regular course meetings.

Required Gear

• Climbing helmet
• Harness
• Rock climbing shoes
• Tube-style belay device (e.g. Black Diamond ATC or Petzel Verso)
• Three locking carabiners (one larger carabiner to use with your belay device and two smaller carabiners)
• A personal anchor (e.g. a Metolius PAS or similar personal anchor OR one 5/8" nylon double sling)
• A four-foot length of 5 or 6mm nylon accessory cord

 We will discuss required gear at the first class, and the instructor will provide details on what gear is required for which class sessions.  

If you have any questions about gear before then, contact the course leader before making a purchase.  Most climbing gear is non-returnable. 

Skills You'll Learn

• Basic knots
• Climbing on top rope
• Belaying a climber on top rope
• Belaying a lead climber
• Cleaning anchors
• Rappelling
• Climbing etiquette
• Rope management
• Basic climbing technique

This course is a top-rope and sport follower course only, providing foundational climbing skills. It does not prepare you for leading sport pitches or climbing in an alpine environment. 

Registration details

Intro to Rock has a capacity of 12 students.  Spots in the course will first be offered to people on the wait list from the previous Intro to Rock class.  After that, remaining spots will be filled by randomly selecting individuals from among those that register in the first week registration is open.

NOTE: ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED FOR ALL DATES.  PLEASE DO NOT REQUEST AN EXCEPTION.