Class Details
Self-Rescue Classes
Great Falls, VA | Top rope belaying and climbing experience required
Our comprehensive rescue series combines our foundational and advanced rescue classes for three packed days of critical skills for partner rescue in top rope and lead climbing in both single and multi-pitch settings—held in a small group format with extensive hands-on practice, this immersive deep dive into climbing systems, gear, and problem-solving is a unique chance to learn challenging, advanced techniques close to home from professional, AMGA-certified instructors.
Self-Rescue Fundamentals focuses on core skills and bottom-managed rescue techniques, Top-Down and Multipitch Climbing Rescue focuses on the more complex systems and higher stakes of top-managed rescue and multi-pitch settings. From risk management, to safely managing weighted transitions with friction hitches, to counterbalance and tandem rappels, to securely transitioning at mid-climb anchors, to haul systems, this intensive is ideal for advanced climbers looking to increase their toolkit of techniques for getting home safe.
View individual classes or book separately:
Self-Rescue II: Top-Down Rescue
Self-Rescue III: Multipitch Rescue
Buy two classes and get the third 50% off!
2026 Dates
4/25 Self-Rescue Fundamentals
4/26 Self-Rescue II: Top-Down Rescue
5/3 Self-Rescue III: Multipitch Rescue
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You’ll learn:
Self-Rescue Fundamentals
Risk management, problem-solving, and critical thinking to address rescue scenarios
Belay escapes
Alternative belay and rappel techniques
Rope ascension
Emergency counterbalance lowers and rappels
Self-Rescue II: Top-Down Rescue
Load-releasable transfers using friction hitches and lowering a climber from above
Counterbalance lowers and rappels
Haul systems
Advanced scene assessment and problem-solving for complex rescue scenarios
Self-Rescue III: Multipitch Rescue
Passing knots through systems
Load-releasable transitions across anchors (the rescue spider)
Tandem rappels
Improvised rappel alternatives
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What’s included:
Any personal gear you need (harness, helmet, shoes, etc.)
All class gear
Take-home handouts and quick reference guides
Instruction by AMGA-certified instructros
Group first aid kit