The ROCK (Rockies Outdoor Climbing Knowledge) program is designed for people who know a little about climbing and would like to participate in RMS section climbing trips. ROCK is ideal for people who have done some gym climbing and would like to expand their climbing to include outdoor routes. The program covers the skills that you need to be a proficient second on an ACC multi-pitch traditional climbing trip. Traditional (or “trad”) climbing means that the leader is placing protection, rather than relying on fixed protection such as pitons or bolts. We will include:

-          what to expect on an ACC climbing trip

-          tying in correctly

-          rope management and knot tying

-          belaying

-          leader / climber signals

-          how to pack, what to bring, particularly food & water

-          proper rappelling and lowering technique

-          how to clean gear and take down an anchor

What we DON’T cover:

-          basic rock climbing skills i.e. where to put your hands & feet

-          leading

The program consists of an evening orientation session via Zoom, one day of sport climbing / belay practice / gear removal / simulated multipitch climbing, and a classic long trad day in the Bow Valley. The entire focus of the program is on safety, safety and safety. Oh, ya, we focus on having fun too. But mostly safety. Note that this is a PROGRAM not a COURSE – the exercises and trips will be lead by experienced volunteers, but they are NOT guides. If you are interested in a more guided experience, please check out the section’s course catalogue.

The dates:

• Thursday June 4^th - orientation night – 7:00 p.m. via Zoom
• Saturday, June 6^th – sport climbing at Sunshine Slabs – belay practice, gear removal, rappelling and multi pitch sport climbing
• Sunday June 7^th – OPTIONAL - the rappel extravaganza! We will be taking several people down the 12 rappels of the Arch Canyon – this part of the program will only be available to about half the group
• ONE OF: Saturday, June 13^th or Sunday June 14^th, or Saturday June 20^th or Sunday June 21st (just one of these 4 days, depending on leader availability) - classic multi pitch route in the Bow Valley (leader’s choice) – trips in the past have included the North East Ridge of Ha Ling, Escargot Corner, Gooseberry, Mother’s Day Buttress and the Yamnuska classics Grillmaier Chimney, Unnamed, Easy Street and King’s Chimney

NOTE: options exist for attending the trad days on weekdays as well, particularly June 8-13. If you are available mid week, we can probably arrange a second trad multi pitch outing for you.

There is no cost for this program, but participants MUST be members of the Rocky Mountain Section of the Alpine Club of Canada and MUST commit to attending all of the sessions. We have had long waiting lists for this program in the past, so if you sign up please arrange to attend all three sessions. Also, a minimum level of previous climbing experience is required. Ideally, to get the most out of this program you should have at least top roped a 5.8 route in a climbing gym. 

You must own your own harness, shoes, helmet, nut pick, prussic (back up for rappelling – 1 m of 6mm cord or a Beal Hollow Blok + non locking carabiner), personal anchor and belay device to participate. A chalk bag is optional.

You will receive an application form via email when your registration is received.