Gunks Rock Climbing Instruction

Gunks Rock Climbing Instruction:
Learn from the Experts:
Learning to climb by trial and error is not the best option. Reading a book and setting out on your own is not likely to prepare you for the realities of rock climbing. Our guides will show you what to do and what NOT to do.... Show more

Gunks Rock Climbing Instruction:
Learn from the Experts:
Learning to climb by trial and error is not the best option. Reading a book and setting out on your own is not likely to prepare you for the realities of rock climbing. Our guides will show you what to do and what NOT to do. Our approach is a comprehensive method that will prepare you for whatever challenge you may face in the vertical environment.

Intro to Rock Climbing:
For aspiring climbers with little or no experience, we will show you the ropes (literally!) and much more. Your first day on the rocks will include belaying, rappelling, and basic climbing techniques. We will ensure that you understand the fundamentals of climbing, then we will focus on movement and having fun. We will provide you with all the equipment you will need and put you on as many routes as time permits.

Top Rope Anchor Building Course:
Knowing how to set up a top rope is one of the first steps towards becoming a self-sufficent climber. We will introduce you to the fundamentals of setting efficient and secure top ropes. The course includes selecting anchors, choosing routes, accessing the tops of climbs, protecting edges and vegetation. Setting up a directional and rappelling with friction hitch back ups will also be covered in this comprehensive course. This course is a great place for an aspiring leader to begin.

Learning to Lead Climb Course:

If you've been on the rock for a while; top roping and following, sport climbing or coming out of a gym, we'll introduce you to the art of traditional leading. You will learn to use stoppers, cams, slings and carabiners correctly and efficiently. We'll start your day by introducing you to each piece of equipment, it's functions and limitations. Next we'll teach you how to place each piece of gear properly and build solid two point and three point anchors. You will also learn how to belay in a multi-pitch setting off the anchor with a Gri-Gri, Guide ATC or Reverso 3. Finally, you'll hone your skills on the sharp end by doing mock leads; you'll be protected by a top rope while you lead. You and your instructor will then simultaneously rappel your route and critique each gear placement. This comprehensive approach to traditional climbing can be taught in a block of simultaneous days, or stretched out over several days throughout the season.

Multi-Pitch Anchor Transitions Course:
Now that you can lead climb your next step to becoming more fluid is learning multi-pitch anchor transitions. Belaying off the anchor with a Guide ATC or Reverso 3 type device, efficiently passing gear to your partner, rope stacking or rope coiling, pancake flipping, visually coaching the second while on belay, appropriate anchor tie ins and rappel extensions with hands free back-ups. This course coupled with the Learn to Lead Course will help you become a quicker and more well rounded climber.

Self Rescue Course:
Have you ever wondered how to escape the belay from the ground or from a multi-pitch anchor? How about passing a knot while rappelling or lowering an injured partner down the cliff from anchor to anchor? Maybe you need to set up an improvised hauling system without mechanical devices or pick off a stuck climber on the cliff while on belay. Maybe you are just a climbing information geek seeking more knowledge. In this two day course you will learn the concepts of using non mechanical devices and a normal belay plate to get out of situations that can arise while climbing.

Kids Rock Climbing Programs:
Our climbing programs are for kids of all ages. We love taking kids out to our favorite climbing spots in the Gunks for a fun-filled day of rock climbing. These days are structured around climbing movement, tying in with the figure eight knot, proper cliff etiquette, learning correct belay commands and rappelling techniques. During the summer months we also have Gunks Kids Rock Climbing Camps for children looking for something a little different out of a camp. Our guides also like to instill the Leave No Trace principals into the day to teach kids the importance of preserving our precious natural areas. Parents are more than welcome to come along and climb for the day.

Group Rock Climbing Programs:
Many schools, camps, Boy Scout / Girl Scout groups, and corporations know that Mountain Skills Climbing Guides is the one to call when they want a fun, exciting, memorable and synergetic day. Our experience with groups ranging in size from 8 to 80 has prepared us for anything you might have in mind. Our sensitivity to your group's particular needs, combined with our access to unique locations, creates an atmosphere that will lift everyone to higher ground. The sky is the limit with our group programs. At Mountain Skills Climbing Guides we custom tailor each climbing experience to meet our client's needs and desires. Please call us so we can discuss your objectives and create the perfect outing for you.