Designed for climbers who want to become competent leading natural routes. Trad (traditional) climbing leaves little or no trace of human presence, preserving the natural environment of the cliff face. It’s an essential skill for mountaineering, rescue, desert and big wall climbing. It’s time to get on the sharp-end! Must have three or more participants. Participants must have taken a basic anchors course and have the ability to set a 3-point anchor with gear, as well as knowledge of basic climbing knots.
During this course we’ll use “mock-leads” on a top-rope system for security. This allows you to learn the intricacies of placing gear on lead, while being under the watchful eye of a professional climbing guide.
Skills and techniques taught include:
– Efficient and attentive lead belaying and “short-roping”
– Gear selection and how to rack your gear
– Where and how to place passive and active protection
– Finding stances for placing protection
– Climbing tips for leading different styles of terrain
– Building anchors utilizing natural protection
– Tips and tricks for route finding and future practice
So, what if the dates don’t fit in my schedule!?!?
If our trad course dates don’t fit in your schedule, please let us know and we’ll discuss a custom option for you. Most of our courses can be booked as a custom outing, so please just ask!
All gear is provided if necessary.
If you have your own gear for trad climbing (cams, slings, nuts, hexes etc) bring them!
It’s always best to practice on your own gear.