Rock climbing instruction is offered in a beginner and intermediate course each spring as well as a lead climbing workshop offered in the fall. Ice climbing instruction is offered in February to climbers experienced in rock climbing belaying and technique. All course participants must be at least 18-years old or 15-years old if accompanied by a parent/guardian and will be required to sign this Acknowledgement of Risks, Assumption of Risks, and Release Agreement for AMC Volunteer-Led Activities. Anyone wishing to participate in the classes must contact the class leaders in advance to register. These classes fill up quickly so it is recommended that you apply early.
Intermediate Rock Climbing Course - May 1, 8, 15, 9 AM–5 PM
This course consists of three
progressive Saturday classes and is intended for intermediate level climbers.
Preference is given to members of the Beginner course. Climbers starting
at this level will be asked to demonstrate some basic climbing and safety
techniques before acceptance into the course. The goal of the course is to produce "seconds" who can
safely belay and follow an experienced leader on a traditional-style multi-pitch climb.
Graduates of the course are
invited on the AMC climbing trips scheduled each month where they are matched with experienced climbers.
Instruction will include learning how to tie and use various climbing knots,
belaying, rappelling, ascending, seconding and learning the basics of placing
protection.
It is required that you have a harness, rock shoes, belay device, three locking carabiners, a nut tool, two 2 ft and 1 4 ft nylon sewn slings, and two prusiks. (See the Recommended Gear below for specifics.) All classes are held outdoors so bring adequate clothing, lunch, snacks, and water. In the case of extreme weather the classes may be held on Sunday instead of Saturday.
Lead Climbing Mentoring Course
Potential leaders are
invited to participate in this course. This course is designed for experienced trad seconds or experienced sport climbers who want to learn to trad lead climb. You must have at least a season’s worth of experience seconding trad climbs or leading sport climbs. You will be expected to have at least the start of a trad rack. It may be supplemented with the instructor’s rack if needed. You will climb one-on-one with an experienced leader who will access your proficiency and adjust the instruction accordingly. Sessions will be of indeterminate duration until you are confident that you are ready to lead trad climbs without instruction. Sessions will be scheduled to coincide with the Beginning and Intermediate AMC classes held each Spring and/or at the convenience of the instructor and student throughout the climbing season. There will be no fee for the course but no costs shall be incurred by the instructor so all trips to climbing destinations shall be covered by the student including: transportation (gas or drive) and lodging.
Contact: Brian Phillips, 401-783-0133