Trad Lead School 2020

[Formerly Lead School]


Update - Applications for Trad Lead School ARE still being accepted. If possible, the School will take place. Check this page or email Brett Barna (address below) for updates including a possible change of dates.

Have you been trying out sport leading in the gym and getting an itch to take it outside? Are you getting tired of the same old top-rope routes at Minnehaha or Post Falls, and want to go climb longer routes in the wilderness? Are you ready to go beyond the crag?

 

This course is designed for those who have taken Rock School or Mountain School and have experience with sport leading in the gym or outside. The focus of this course will be an introduction to Traditional, a.k.a. Trad, climbing which focuses on the skills needed to ascend vertical rock while placing and removing protection. Topics will include, but not be limited to, traditional gear use and placements, multi-pitch climbing and efficiency, and building trad anchors.

 

School Director - Brett Barna, brettjbarna@gmail.com

School Assistant Directors - Andrew Ratcliff & Ted Rupp

 

Dates/Times/Locations

Indoor - Wednesday, June 3, 6-8pm, Location TBD

Outdoor - Saturday/Sunday, June 6/7, 8am-4pm, Spokane Area Crags

Outdoor - Saturday/Sunday, June 13/14, Leavenworth Area or Equivalent

 

Cost - $125


Requirements

This is not a basic or introductory climbing course. A certain level of rock climbing proficiency is expected. If you are lacking in any of the areas outlined below, start working now so you are ready for the course. Contact the course directors with any questions. Participants must


    • have successfully completed Rock School, Mountain School, or equivalent
    • be in good physical condition
    • have experience sport leading in the gym or outside in the last year
    • be able to comfortably mock lead a climb rated 5.8 without a "take" or fall
    • be proficient with the following knots & hitches: rewoven figure 8, figure 8 on a bite, clove hitch, munter hitch, bowline, water knot, girth hitch, overhand
    • be able to efficiently and safely rappel using an auto block for back up
    • feel very comfortable with all aspects of Top Rope Climbing. This includes
      • Tying into the Rope
      • Belaying
      • Communication
      • Building a SERENE/ERNEST Top Rope Anchor on bolts and natural anchors

Application Process

Applications will be accepted through Sunday, May 17. Accepted applicants will be notified the following week at the latest. Participants must be 18 or older.  Participant number is limited. All participants must be members of the Spokane Mountaineers. Join now if you are not already a member! Selection criteria considered will include, but not be limited to, date application was submitted, climbing experience, and previous participation with the Spokane Mountaineers.


The application link below will take you to a form. Please fill this out carefully and completely.