Intro to Drytooling

Field trip: Intermediate Climbing Course

Intro to Drytooling - Exit 38/Drytool Crag

This two-part course introduces and develops dry tooling techniques for climbers transitioning from rock and alpine ice to mixed terrain.

  • Easy
  • 4 (9 capacity)
  • FULL (3 capacity)
  • Fri, Nov 14, 2025 at 5:00 PM
  • Fri, Nov 14, 2025 at 5:00 PM
  • Cancellation & Refund Policy
  • iCal Google

🎯 Course Overview

This two-part course introduces and develops dry tooling techniques for climbers transitioning from rock and alpine ice to mixed terrain. The evening session focuses on tool mechanics and movement indoors, while the field session applies those skills in a real outdoor setting.

🧠 Learning Objectives

Evening Session

  • Understand the purpose and types of dry tooling equipment
  • Learn and practice basic tool placement and movement mechanics
  • Explore the 3 axes of rotation and their application in dry tooling
  • Differentiate between stein pulls, camming, and leveraging techniques
  • Begin developing body awareness and positioning with tools
  • Practice hand swaps, matching, and tool management

Field Session

  • Apply indoor skills to outdoor terrain
  • Practice movement with tools, boots, and crampons
  • Learn to manage pump and fatigue while using crampons on rock
  • Refine body positioning and footwork on natural features
  • Develop route strategy and tool placement decision-making

🛠️ Skills Developed

Skill Area

Evening Session

Field Session

Tool Placement

Horizontal & Vertical Movement

3 Axes of Rotation

Stein Pulls vs Cam/Levers

Body Positioning

Hand Swaps & Matching

Crampon Technique

Pump Management

Details by email

Route/Place
Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

  • Dry tooling tools with metal picks
  • Rock shoes or mountaineering boots
  • Helmet, eye protection, mouth guard
  • Gloves (golf gloves recommended)
  • Harness, carabiners, belay device
  • Weather-appropriate outdoor gear
  • First aid kit
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