Introduction to Single Pitch Trad

Applications and registration open to intermediate climbing students only starting Jan 1 (opens to public Feb 1).  Applications received prior to Jan 1st 2017 will NOT be reviewed. A Leading on Bolts Badge OR Equivalency, which is, know how to lead climb at 5.7 on bolts, build a top rope anchor, clean an anchor and rappel)

Click here to fill out an application

This course is designed to teach the skills required to lead climb single-pitch trad routes. Students will be given time and education to safely and efficiently place gear and develop new climbing skills that will help the break into a new type of climbing.  Applicants MUST be able to proficiently lead bolted routes at a minimum of 5.7.

Skills Covered

* Proper and efficient trad gear placement techniques

* Proper gear spacing

* Leading single-pitch climbs on trad gear

* Knowledge of fall factors

Graduation Criteria

* Safely lead 2 single-pitch trad routes 5.5 or above

Prerequisites

* Sport climbing course or equivalency equals proficiently leading at 5.7 on bolts, building a sport anchor, and cleaning and repelling from said anchor.

o Ability to lead on bolts up to 5.7 proficiently

o Ability to rappel safely

o Able to build a top-rope anchor on bolts

Summary of Activities

* 1 evening kickoff session

* 2 evenings for skills review

* 2 weekend days of outdoor mock leading on trad gear

* 1 weekend day of outdoor leading on trad gear

Student Gear

 We will be discussing gear during our Kick Off session so waiting to purchase gear will ensure that all students purchase the proper gear the first time.  However if you have already purchased gear and would like it evaluated you are welcome to bring it to this Kick off meeting.  See the complete gear list in Course materials.