Dates: Saturday, May 2nd & Sunday, May 3rd
This course is designed to help you become an independent, competent, and confident outdoor sport climber. Over two full days, we’ll explore the key differences between indoor and outdoor leading, break down decision-making and risk management calculations, and take a deep dive into the technical systems you need to climb safely and efficiently on your own.
While there are a lot of options out there for a one-day version of this program, we have found that two days really encourages meaningful skill development. With more time to practice, refine techniques, and build muscle memory, you'll leave with stronger habits and a deeper understanding of the systems and skills that matter most.
This course is a great fit if you:
Are ready to transition from indoor to outdoor leading
Have climbed outdoors with others but don't yet feel confident with all the skills and decision-making to be truly independent in your climbing
Dream about traveling and sport climbing on your own
Value learning from professional guides who are also dedicated climbers
As always, we continue to focus on the lower ratio settings so that we can continue to deliver the personalized coaching that we value so much. As such, this program is limited to just 4 participants.
Prerequisites:
Solid TR belay skills
Ability to comfortably climb 5.8 indoors
At least 6 months of climbing experience
Rumney is widely considered to be the premier sport climbing destination in the Northeast. With easy access, an incredible density of routes, a wide variety of styles and grades, and consistently high-quality climbing, it offers something for everyone, from first-time outdoor leaders to seasoned climbers.
Add in a bit of classic New England country charm, close proximity to Boston and Portland, plus a perfect swimming hole just across from the parking lot, and you’ve got a truly special climbing destination.
Accommodations:
Staying in Rumney is easy and convenient, with options for every style.
Camp just across the street at the Rattlesnake Campground (operated by the American Alpine Club)
Stay right around the corner at the Barn Door Hostel
Or choose from a variety of inns and hotels in the nearby Plymouth area
Simple, comfortable, and all close to the climbing.
Come prepared for full days of outdoor activity (proper clothing - including closed-toed shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, medium-sized backpack and plenty of food and fluids for the day).
For technical climbing gear, please bring the following:
Shoes
Harness
Helmet
Chalk Bag
Belay device with dedicated locking carabiner (An assisted braking device - such as Petzl Grigri - is preferred)
8- 12 Quickdraws
Anchor building material + 2 non-locking carabiners (cordelette, 180cm dyneema sling, 120cm sling are all options)
2-3 extra locking carabiners
Optional: Personal Anchor System
Optional: Stick Clip
Optional: 60 M climbing rope
Miscellaneous sport climbing creature comforts:
Belay Specs (save your neck!)
Belay Gloves (save your skin!)
If you need to borrow anything, feel free to let us know. We'll make it happen!
Cancellations. All cancellations are subject to a $25.00 administrative fee. Cancellations made within two weeks of the reservation date will result in a refund of the trip total, minus $100. Alternatively, rescheduling to a later date may be a possibility. Any cancellation made within 7 days of the reservation date will result in full loss of payment.
Weather. Should the weather not be suitable for climbing, your trip total will be refunded. It is up to Cathedral Mountain Guides to determine what conditions are, or are not, suitable for climbing. No one should be miserable on their day out, but please understand that adverse conditions may be a part of your climbing experience. We don’t really want to climb in the rain either!