The WSU Alpine Club offers two rock climbing classes in conjunction with the ASWSU Outdoor Recreation Center (O.R.C). First, an introductory class is offered for people with little or no climbing experience. Next, an intermediate class builds on skills taught in the introductory class and introduces additional skills used in multi-pitch climbing.

The Introductory Climbing Class is for people who want to learn how to rock climb safely. Students will be thoroughly instructed and rigorously examined in order to help them develop skills and demonstrate competence in the following areas:

There will be ample opportunity for students to climb but the primary emphasis of the class is on instructing the skills listed above.

The introductory class meets twice. The first meeting takes place indoors and covers important basic information. Here you will learn about various knots, rope handling, slings, carabiners and their uses. Rock climbing is potentially very dangerous, and communication is a key element to preventing accidents. Therefore we will also discuss climbing protocol and verbal commands. We will teach you how to belay a climber, which is as important as knowing how to climb.

The second meeting will take place the following weekend at a local crag. Here you will learn techniques for climbing, and have ample opportunities to practice climbing on routes ranging from easy to very difficult. You will also practice belaying other students and using the proper commands. Finally, we will teach you how to rappel (descend a rope) from the top of the rock.

You do not need to own any specialized gear. We will provide you with a harness, belay device, helmet and carabiners during the class. We highly recommend that you rent climbing shoes from the WSU O.R.C. or from the U.I. Outdoor Program. A good pair of sneakers or boots will work, but do not provide as much friction as climbing shoes.

You can sign up in the ASWSU Outdoor Recreation Center in the Field House. The first (indoor) class will meet on Thursday evening, April 10^th. The outdoor class will then take place the following Saturday, April 12^th, from 8 AM until approximately 5 PM. A $35.00 fee covers the indoor and the outdoor sessions, use of the climbing gear, and transportation to and from the climbing area.

The intermediate class will build upon the experience gained in the introductory class, and introduce students to techniques used in multi-pitch, traditional climbing. Students who have taken the intro class (and demonstrated competence in belaying, climbing, and rappelling) will be eligible for the intermediate class. Experienced students not wishing to take the introductory class may be approved for the intermediate class on a case-by-case basis by the lead instructor.