Lead Climbing

Lead Climbing

This advanced climbing course is designed for competent climbers who want to better understand the skills, systems and decision-making involved in lead climbing. The course places a strong emphasis on multi-pitch trad climbing while also addressing the broader principles that apply to both traditional and sport leading.

Topics include equipment selection, lead-fall dynamics, protection placement, rope management, anchor systems, belaying, communication and the mental and physical demands of leading. We will also look closely at how a lead climber evaluates terrain, manages risk and makes decisions while moving through a route.

This course is valuable even if you do not plan to become a lead climber. Understanding the systems and challenges involved in leading will make you a more capable climbing partner, belayer and second. All lead-climbing practice during the course is backed up with a top-rope system, allowing students to develop and practice lead skills in a controlled environment.

We will spend 1-2 days together reviewing core concepts and then applying those skills outdoors. Most of the course is hands-on, with an emphasis on practical experience, repetition and developing the confidence and judgment needed to progress as a climber.

Basic skills covered

• Keeping an organized rope stack

• Hanging belays

• Belay station management

• What to carry on route

• Efficient racking and gear exchange

• Appropriate rope selction

• Use of a tag line

• Belaying from the anchor vs. harness

• Retreating safely

• Descent following the route

Typical Cost: Variable

Duration: 1-2 Days

Please check our calendar of events for a current list of scheduled training sessions.

Custom Training 

Training can also be customized and scheduled based on your availability. Feel free to contact us any time to inquire about your desired topic and we can discuss available dates and participant minimums.