Intro to Trad Climbing Course

Day 1: Gear Placements + Mock Leading

Learn about different types of gear, how to judge rock quality and what a proper gear placement looks like. Practice placing gear on the ground and during mock leads (on toprope).

Day 2: Anchors, Belaying from Above, Rappelling, Mock Leading

Build anchors from gear, trees and rocks. Learn and practice the clove hitch, belaying from above and rappelling. Either lead or mock lead an easy pitch to put these skills to practice!

Day 3: Lead your First Trad Pitch(es)

This day is focused on building your confidence and competence in leading trad for real!

Day 4: First Trad Multi-Pitch, Communication, Rappel Practice

Now that you can lead trad, it's time to integrate it into multi-pitch systems. Hone in on your process, practice clear communication and dial in important skills like rappelling and transitions.

Optional Day 5: Alpine Experience (Add-On)

Climb a multi-pitch in Rocky Mountain National Park! While you (likely) won't have the opportunity to lead, you'll get a motivating glimpse into the beautiful places trad climbing can take you. Offered at a discounted rate.

*Daily Outline Subject to Change

This progression series is a great fit if you:

• Have outdoor sport climbing experience and want to transition into trad

• Understand basic climbing systems (belaying, knots, movement)

• Want a structured, supportive and progressive approach to learning trad skills

• Confidence placing gear and building anchors

• Experience leading trad

• Basic understanding of multi-pitch systems and communication

• A strong foundation to be a competent trad partner