Learn to Lead: Trad Climbing
Trad climbing skills are foundational to any climber who aspires to climb Connecticut's classic routes, multi-pitch lines in the Gunks or alpine rock routes in New Hampshire, the Cascades and beyond.
We'll practice placing protection, building anchors and belay systems for single and multi-pitch terrain. We'll also introduce basic self-rescue skills to help you avoid and escape sticky situations on the cliff. You'll start on low-stress leads with a top rope backup as you develop your skills and progress under the supervision of an AMGA certified instructor.
You'll learn:
Selecting and placing traditional climbing gear
Anchor skills and assessment
Belay systems for the leader and follower
Leader security and station management
Intro to self-rescue, lowering and raising a follower
Prerequisites
Climb 5.8 or higher, extensive top rope belay experience.
Rates
Private (1:1) $385
Semi Private (1:2) $225ea
Small Group (1:3+) $175ea
Locations
Trad climbing courses are typically held in the Ragged Mountain area in central Connecticut. With advanced notice, our guides can arrange other locations around the Northeast.
More Info & Online Booking
Recommended
New Trad Leaders
We recommend booking two days of instruction to give adequate time to learn and practice the many skills we’ll cover.
Experience Leaders
Experienced leaders are welcome to book a single day or refresher course where we build on the skills you already have.
Ratios
We recommend a 1:1 or 2:1 student to guide ratio for lead courses to ensure the best learning outcomes. Max ratio is 4:1.
