Trad Climbing

DESCRIPTION: Intrigued by leading traditional rock climbs but intimidated by knowing how to safely protect climbs?  Do you lead sport routes in the gym or outside and want to open up the doors to more options?  Join one of MAGs professional guides to learn the right and safest way to protect traditional rock climbs and gain the confidence needed to safely go out on your own.

OVERVIEW:  This course is for those who have experience leading sport climbs and want to tap in to the multitude of classic traditional routes and or alpine objectives abound. Topics covered include:

• Risk assessments and crags hazards
• Gear placements and removal, protection evaluation (cams, nuts, other)
• Multi-point/multi-directional anchor construction
• Fall factors and forces created
• Technique and lead-climbing strategy
• Mock leading scenarios
• Lead belays
• Equipment selection and use
• Constructive teaching and review of all gear placement by professional guides.

PREREQUISITES:  Climbers enrolling in our Traditional Rock Course should have a background in lead climbing sport climbs, basic belay skills, and knots.  Contact us about options if you feel you need to gain these skills.

RATIO: Max 6:1

INCLUDED:

• Professional climbing guide
• Personal Climbing Gear (rock climbing shoes, harness, helmet)
• Group Gear: Ropes, carabiners, climbing protection, slings, cordelettes, etc.

EXCLUDED:

• Food, transport, lodging
• Technical clothing, backpack, etc.
• Rescue insurance
• Trip insurance
• Guide gratuity
• Unforeseen expenses from circumstances outside of Montana Alpine Guides’ control