Introduction To the Vertical WorldSM

Students Per Instructor: 1, 2 or 3
Course Length: 2 Days (approx. 8 hours per day)
Seasons Offered: Spring, Summer, Fall
Alpine Mastery Method: Rock Mastery - Level I
Prerequisites: None

Course Summary: This fast-paced course teaches you the basics of technical rock climbing. It lays the solid foundation required for building more advanced skills in a traditional climbing environment.

Reservations

Course Description:
In this course we present the fundamentals of technical climbing in a logical, easy-to-understand progression. We start out with a brief overview of modern rock climbing, introducing equipment, jargon and the attitudes that will help you become a safe climber. Next, we’re off to the rock so you can learn essential skills.

Starting with anchoring, we carefully explain the equipment and systems that will keep you safe while you climb. Next, we introduce and practice basic techniques for body belaying, mechanical belaying and rappelling. Climbing in a top-roped setting, you will hone your new skills on easy to moderate rock climbs.

The second day starts with a bouldering session; an opportunity for you to build your movement technique repertoire. Next, we introduce and practice techniques for placement and removal of “clean” protection. Afterwards, you’ll have a chance to further practice these skills while learning to follow more challenging one-pitch climbs. Your instructor will place protection while leading these routes, then you will follow, removing equipment as you climb. This leading/following sequence is fundamental to all technical rock and ice climbing and opens the door to bigger climbs.

This comprehensive introduction to climbing provides the solid foundation of understanding needed to build more advanced climbing skills. In development since 1985, our fast-paced course is the best introduction to traditional rock climbing you’ll find anywhere.

We provide all technical equipment, including climbing shoes, for your use during this course.

No prior climbing experience is required for this course. Climbers with experience limited to indoor walls, or group top-roping, will also find this course is an ideal step into the world of alpinism.

Reservations