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Trad II: Beyond the Basics

$195 | Great Falls, VA | Top rope and foundational trad experience required

Continue your trad climbing journey with focused learning and application on the wall.

Trad II: Beyond the Basics builds on our signature Intro to Trad class with focused time practicing placing gear on mock lead, experimenting with complex anchors, belaying from the top. Trad climbing is a lifetime journey toward freedom and adventure in the alpine, the desert, and in crags around the world—take the first step with the most experienced AMGA-certified pros in the region.

This class focuses primarily on single-pitch settings; to climb higher add Multipitch Fundamentals for the basics and beyond of smooth, efficient multipitch climbing.

2026 dates

  • 4/11

  • 4/17

  • You’ll learn:

    - To build on foundational knowledge about placing, assess, and test both passive (stoppers) and active (cams) protection

    - To place, assess, and test specialty gear for small and large cracks

    - To build more complex anchors using gear and natural protection in real-world setting

    - Hands-on practice placing gear on mock lead with instructor feedback

    - Principles and concepts of safe, successful trad lead climbing

  • What’s included:

    • Any personal gear you need (harness, helmet, shoes, etc.)

    • All class gear, including trad racks

    • Take-home handouts and quick reference guides

    • Group first aid kit