Rock Climbing Courses
Rock Climbing - The Foundation Skill of Alpinism
Once thought of as mere skill-practice for mountaineers, rock climbing has evolved into a sport in its own right, with numerous sub-disciplines such as sport climbing, aid climbing, and bouldering. Our rock climbing courses are designed to provide a solid foundation for anyone who enjoys climbing rock, whether on alpine peaks, desert towers, or your local crag.
Rock Climbing Courses
Rock Climbing - The Foundation Skill of Alpinism
A climber learns rock-climbing fundamentals while protected by a top-rope. Scott SchumannA four-day intensive course that provides beginners and indoor climbers with a foundation in outdoor climbing techniques and the principals of rock climbing technical systems. By the end of the program, climbers will be able to belay, rappel, and set-up their own single-pitch top-rope systems to enable them to climb independently.
- Location:Washington, British Columbia, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and California
- Season:Year-round
- Length:4 days
- Cost:$975
A climber practices taking a lead fall on day three of AAI's Learn to Lead course. AAI CollectionThe objective of the Learn to Lead program is to introduce climbers to the techniques required for leading single-pitch traditional rock climbing routes, while advancing technical and movement skills.
- Location:Washington, British Columbia, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and California
- Season:Year Round
- Length:4 days
- Cost:$1125
It's hard to not be this happy while on an awesome multi-pitch climb in Red Rock Canyon, NV! Szu-ting YiThe four-day Multi-Pitch Skills Course provides climbers with an introduction to multi-pitch climbing systems with a focus on efficiency and movement. This course is ideal for those who are interested in taking basic climbing skills to the next level, to ascend long and beautiful multi-pitch climbs.
- Location:Nevada, Washington
- Season:October - September
- Length:4 days
- Cost:$1195
A climber works up the fantastic North Ridge of Lone Pine Peak (5.5, III). Photo by Mike PowersSome of the most inspirational and beautiful lines in North America may be found on remote, high and wild alpine peaks. The first part of this two-part program introduces climbers to the art of alpine rock climbing. The second part expands on the knowledge presented in the first part and provides climbers with the skills and techniques to lead their own alpine rock routes.
- Location:Sierra Nevada, CA; Rocky Mountain NP, CO
- Season:May - September
- Length:6 or 12 days
- Cost:$1920 ($3600 for Parts 1 and 2)
An aid climber works his way up City Park, a classic aid line at Index, WA. Andy Bourne.This four-day aid climbing and big wall technique seminar is designed for competent leaders who wish to expand their horizons and their climbing ability by exploring advanced aid and free climbing skills.
- Location:Index, Washington; Red Rock, Nevada; also offered in Utah and Colorado
- Season:Year Round
- Length:4 days
- Cost:$1125
Climbing at the limit of one's ability requires a high level of mental discipline. Warrior's WayThis 1-day field seminar, designed by Arno Ilgner, addresses fear of falling and improving commitment. We'll do falling, movement, and resting exercises and apply all learned skills to a challenging route.
- Location:California and Nevada
- Season:Varies
- Length:1 day
- Cost:$450
Staying calm and cool on lead in Joshua Tree. Mark AllenThis two-day, in-depth climbing camp blends the Warriors Way mental training model with instruction in traditional gear placements and skills. This course is taught in Joshua Tree, California and Red Rock, Nevada where there are countless traditional routes to match students' skills.
- Location:California and Nevada
- Season:Spring and Fall
- Length:2 Days
- Cost:$500
Many rescues begin by tying off a belay device. Ben TraxlerThe Technical Self-Rescue for Climbers program is an intensive one to two-day seminar on improvised multi-pitch rock rescue techniques. Participants study a series of haul, lower, rappel and rope-climbing systems and then apply them to a variety of practical scenarios. Individuals who complete this rock-rescue program should be able to apply these skills to a wide array of complex high-angle problems.
- Location:BC, WA, CA, NV and UT
- Season:Year-round
- Length:1 - 2 days
- Cost:$575 (min. of 2 participants)
A student learning to rappel on the Sunset Slabs, Mt. Erie. Jason MartinThe Beginning Rock Climbing course is an introduction designed for people who have little or no experience in rock climbing. The course is ideal for those who are curious and want to experience the thrill of rock climbing in a beautiful natural setting. By the end of the course, participants should feel comfortable climbing with experienced friends and be able to pass a rock gym belayer's test.
- Location:Mt. Erie, WA
- Season:June - September
- Length:1 or 2 Days
- Cost:$215 per day (min. of 3 participants)
A Women's Only Alpinism 1 descending the Easton Glacier on their way back to Bellingham. Lauren SmithWomen interested in climbing with other women are invited to take their rock climbing or mountaineering skills to the next level on a women-specific AAI course. Learn to lead climb or summit a snow-capped peak in a supportive, all-women environment. Our women's programs include rock climbing clinics, mountaineering courses, and custom trips.
- Location:Washington, British Columbia, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and California
- Season:Year-round
- Length:Varies
- Cost:Varies
Rock climbing on the stunning limestone cliffs that surround Laos.Laos is an incredible place to rock climb. Amazing limestone walls rise sharply out of a lush jungle, featuring huge holds and amazing movement. On rest days, you will immerse yourself in a unique culture that has existed for thousands of years. You will enjoy delicious food, explore soaring temples, and meet welcoming local people. Join us for the rock climbing trip of a lifetime!
- Location:Thakhek, Laos or Vang Vieng, Laos
- Season:October - May
- Length:14 days or 21 days
- Cost:$5950 for Thakhek 14-day; $7995 for Vang Vieng 21-day
Program Finder