Learn How to Trad Climb

Location

Fayetteville, West Virginia

Group Size

4 people per guide

Duration

24 hours

Learn how to climb single-pitch trad climbs in a progression of skills that will prepare you for single-pitch climbing and being a safe and competent multi-pitch partner.

First, you'll start out learning crack-specific movement and jamming skills on a top rope, and progress to following a lead climber while removing gear. You'll learn how to assess a trad gear anchor and how to build them.

On day 2, you'll learn strategies on how to rack up for a lead climb and practice placing gear while mock leading (with a loose top rope backup). You'll mock-lead a variety of trad routes and get feedback on your gear placements as you go. Finally, you'll learn best practices for rappelling and retreating off a climb.

Other learning objectives include:

  • Crack climbing technique
  • Following a trad leader and removing gear
  • Gear placement
  • Anchor building principles
  • Rope management
  • Rappelling best practices

Suggested Prerequisites:

  • 12 months of climbing experience
  • Lead certified at your local gym (or equivalent)
  • Lead belay certified
  • Able to top rope up to 5.8 sport with no falls/hangs

All necessary equipment will be provided, but feel free to bring any trad gear you may own.

**This course must reach a minimum enrollment of 4 students 14 days in advance in order to run. If we do not reach 4 students, we will cancel the course and provide a full refund. If you have any friends or colleagues interested in joining us, please let them know about the course!