Learn to Lead Sport Climb Outdoors

Climbers who want to move beyond toproping or may have lead indoors but realize it’s much different outdoors will gain some important knowledge during a sport leading class. In addition to clipping bolts outside participants will learn:

• How to provide a solid lead belay that makes you a sought after climbing partner.
• What equipment is needed to move from toproping or indoor climbing to outdoor leading on fixed gear.
• How to correctly lead bolt protected routes and minimize safety risks to the lead climber.
• How to properly communicate as well as assess safety systems and perform safety checks for lead climbing.
• How to clean a route after the last climber including the choice of when to lower or rappel.
• Outdoor climbing etiquette and ethics for new outdoor leaders.

After taking this climbing course participants should feel capable of leading bolt protected climbs at local sport climbing areas.

Participants should be capable of the following prior to participating in this course:

• Basic outdoor self care. What to wear, how much water and snacks, etc.
• Putting on a regular climbing harness, shoes, and helmet without assistance.
• Toprope belaying with a tube style belay device (eg. ATC or reverso type device).
• Indoor lead experience is helpful but not required.

Participants without the required skills may be asked to book additional days to ensure the best learning experience.