This program is the first step in becoming a well rounded climbed and moving towards leading and more difficult climbs. We do not spend a lot of time off the ground at all on this course, but rather work with gear and equipment and the theories of anchoring. This course takes you to the stage of being a fully participating member of the climbing team, able to make decisions about anchors and capable of their evaluation. We assume that you have had a fair bit of climbing experience before and know the basics of climbing so we do not spend time on climbing and movement skills.

Itinerary
We have a number of places for this course and the exact location will depend upon the weather and also where you are staying, whether it be near Bishop or Mammoth.

In a controlled on the ground setting we examine the following:

• Types of protection equipment
• Nut and camming device placement
• Protection removal

• Constructing anchors with webbing, rope and cordelettes
• Using the anchor for belaying
• Stance management and organization
• Rope management

Instructors
Our guides are American Mountain Guides Association trained so you can expect the highest level of climbing and safety knowledge combined with solid instructional skills and professionalism.

We highly recommend that you spend at least one night at moderate altitude (higher than 8,000') just prior to the trip. Spending a night in Mammoth would do the trick. Please refer to our Planning for Success info sheet for more info.

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