Structured & Certified Programs

Intro to Rock Climbing

If the sport of rock climbing has you curious but you're not sure how to get started, this is a good option. After introductions and a briefing for the day, we'll head out to one of the many excellent cliffs in the High Peaks. Options include: King Phillips Spring Wall, Chapel Pond Canyon, and Tilman's Arete. Once at the site, we will go over climbing movement, belaying and tying in, with the day focused on experiencing different styles of climbing and creating a solid basis of understanding for the vertical world.

Outdoor Rock Anchors & Systems

A two day course designed to help participants construct anchors using natural, fixed, and removable protection. All participants should have experience climbing routes of varying styles. Anchor options covered include single, two, and three or more point anchors utilizing the rope and commonly carried materials like slings, cord, and carabiners. Placing removable protection will be addressed as well as incorporating natural and fixed components.

Time will be spent in the field at a location with many options for anchor construction, with the instructor demonstrating techniques followed by guided practice, including potentially climbing on participant anchors.

Lead & Self-Rescue Course

Designed for climbers with experience on traditional single and multi-pitch routes looking to refine gear placement and anchor construction, and expand their skill-set for "what-if" scenarios.

The days will mix leading (always with some form of backup) and rescue skills, with an emphasis on discussion, demonstration, and guided practice. The goal is that all participants leave feeling more aware of the responsibilities of the leader role and empowered to manage them.

Backcountry Primer

A one day program aimed at helping people understand the many considerations and options that go into planning and executing a backcountry rock climb. All participants should be able to confidently follow 5.6 while removing traditional protection, and hike approximately 2 miles with 1,500' of elevation gain.

The first part of the day will be spent discussing the above topics and more. After that, we'll pack for and execute a climb to put what was discussed into practice.

Open Climbing Day

This one day program is focused on people with little or no ice climbing experience looking to improve their technique and enjoy the sport. Participants should have prior experience with belaying and tying-in to the rope. All technical climbing equipment is included with the exception of boots, which can be rented for $25.

Learn to Lead

This three day course is focused on building a solid foundation for aspiring ice climbing leaders. Skills developed will include: strong movement and climbing ability, clipping ability, ice screw placement and assessment, anchor construction and rope management, transitions from up to down and options for retreat. Participants should be capable of climbing WI 3-3+ confidently and be competent belayers.

Mountaineering Seminar

This two day program is built for those with an interest in winter mountaineering in the northeast or aspirations for bigger peaks such as Mt. Rainier, Mt. Baker and even Denali. The first day focuses on gaining familiarity and comfort with steep snow and ice up to WI 3, as well as belaying, tying-in, and potentially rappelling. The second day involves a mountaineering or peak ascent depending on conditions. Possible objectives include: Cascade Slide to Summit, Algonquin, Eagle Slide on Giant Mtn, the Trap Dike on Mt. Colden, or Gothic via Cables Route or the North Face. Many of these objectives are well-suited for camping, which can be accommodated for an additional $100 per night — great preparation for bigger objectives.

AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course

The SPI program is a three day (27 hour) course representing the benchmark for professional climbing instruction in the United States. For current, active rock climbers with a desire to teach climbing in the single pitch setting who have been climbing for at least 12 months. The program is focused on teaching candidates to proficiently facilitate rock climbing experiences and provide professional level instruction and care.

AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Assessment

A two day program. Candidates are required to have completed the SPI course within two years before the Assessment. Upon successful completion, candidates gain certification as an SPI for a period of three years. This credential is increasingly required to gain employment as a climbing instructor.