ATS Traditional Lead Climbing Course

This is a full-on lead climbing class. The purpose of this course is to educate and instruct a climber on how to safely step into the world of lead climbing. Topics covered include route finding and topo map reading, rope management, gear selection and racking methods, how to protect a climb, proper placement techniques, establishing a belay stance, proper belay techniques, and how to follow and clean a leader.

Click here to find a date & book your trip now!

Lead Climbing Course Locations & Times

Our Lead Climbing courses take place at various climbing areas in the Western United States depending on season and desired location. The locations vary from Idyllwild to Joshua Tree to Red Rocks and more. Please visit out course schedule page for specific locations.

Unless indicated otherwise, all courses are full day courses, usually meeting at 8AM and going until sunset.

To-Bring List for All Lead Climbing Classes

-a detailed course to-bring list will be emailed upon registration-

Clothes that can be layered for cold mornings, and warm afternoons
Small day pack to carry personal belongings
Climbing harness
Climbing shoes (available for rent from Sport Chalet)
Any personal technical gear on which you would like to train
Sunglasses/Hat
3 liters of water
Lunch
A day use adventure pass when applicable (National Forest only)

Lead Climbing Course Prerequisites

Anchor building skills equivalent to Anchor I & II. Climber must be able to comfortably climb 5.6 on a top rope belay. Students must be comfortable placing protection in an anchor building environment. Students must have the ability to tie into a climbing harness correctly and belay a climber using standard belay devices. Gri-gri for top rope, ATC for lead belays.

Please visit our course schedules page to book your trip now!

We look forward to sharing a rock climbing adventure with you!

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!