Class Details

Intro to Trad Climbing - Women’s + NB session

$175 | Great Falls, VA or Annapolis Rock, MD | Top rope experience required

Prepare for the sharp end with a comprehensive introduction to trad climbing—a key skill for climbers looking for unique physical and technical challenge and big adventure.

Our signature Intro to Trad class offers both high-level theory and hands-on practice with the gear, systems, and ethics of traditional lead climbing protected by removable active and passive protection (e.g., cams and stoppers) instead of bolts. Trad climbing is a lifetime journey toward freedom and adventure in the alpine, the desert, and in crags around the world—take the first step with the most experienced pro guides in the region.

Our women’s and gender-minority courses are led by the most experienced certified, professional female/non-binary guides in the region and are open to all female-identifying and non-binary students who want to learn new skills in a supportive, inclusive, community-focused space. We also offer Women’s Climbing Clinics, Top Rope Anchors, and Self-Rescue Fundamentals in women’s-only sessions.

This class is also available as an all-gender session and as part of our Coopers Rock Trad Camp

2024 Spring Dates

  • 5/25

  • You’ll learn:

    • To place, assess, and test both passive (nuts and hexes) and active (cams) protection

    • To build bomber multi-point anchors in unique situations using natural protection and gear

    • Hands-on practice placing gear on mock lead with instructor feedback

    • Principles and concepts of safe, successful trad lead climbing

  • What’s included:

    • Any personal gear you need (harness, helmet, shoes, etc.)

    • All class gear, including trad racks

    • Take-home handouts and quick reference guides

    • Group first aid kit