Master Crack Climbing Techniques with Expert Guide Ryan Siacci in Victoria's Grampians
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate fitness level able to handle continuous upper and lower body exertion over extended periods.
Overview
Join expert guide Ryan Siacci in the Grampians for a hands-on crack climbing course that teaches you everything from finger jams to offwidths. Perfect for trad climbers eager to master sandstone cracks in Victoria’s iconic climbing region.
Crack Climbing 101
Ages 16+ • 8 hours • Come learn the art of crack climbing!
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About This Adventure
Join an immersive crack climbing course that transforms novices into confident climbers. Under the guidance of experienced climber Ryan Siacci, you'll master essential techniques for various crack sizes, learn gear usage, and develop precise footwork. Experience the thrill of tackling everything from finger cracks to the notorious offwidths with expert support.
If you would like to learn the art of crack climbing, come and learn from Ryan Siacci (Crack Enthusiast, ACIA Qualified Multipitch Guide, Zen and the Art of Climbing & Professional Dirt Bag) so you don't have to make the same mistakes he did and fast track your crack climbing journey!
Duration
8 Hours
About
There I was at the fabled Indian Creek, Utah’s crack climbing mecca. A perfect hands splitter crack soared above me, a fairly modest undertaking, but I couldn’t even get off the ground! Jamming was not even in my vocabulary, let alone my ability. I retreated home with my tail between my legs, and after many seasons at Queensland’s Frog Buttress, I became a passable crack climber with a few Grade 25 redpoints as feathers in my cap. I have since moved to Victoria, which is not well known for cracks, but having sniffed out the best of them, I can teach you what I know! From fingers to offwidths and everything in between, come join me to learn the skills you need to avoid crying and rescue on your first lap up “Where Angels Fear to Tread”.
If you would like to learn the art of crack climbing, come and learn from Ryan Siacci (Crack Enthusiast, ACIA Qualified Multipitch Guide, Zen and the Art of Climbing & Professional Dirt Bag) so you don't have to make the same mistakes he did and fast track your crack climbing journey!
In this one day extensive course you will cover the following topics:
- Equipment overview
- Crack Glove roundup (including tape gloves)
- Crack movement and footwork
- Hand Cracks
- Finger Cracks
- Fist Cracks
- The DREADED OFFWIDTH CRACK
What’s Included?
- Climbing ropes
- Trad gear
- ACIA and Wilderness First Aid Qualified Guide
- First aid Kits
- Theory Training Materials
Adventure Tips
Bring your own climbing shoes and harness
While gear can be provided, having your own ensures the best fit and comfort for crack climbing techniques.
Start strong with tape glove practice
Learning tape glove fitting and taping technique early protects your hands during intense crack jamming.
Hydrate and pace yourself
Crack climbing can be strenuous; carry enough water and take breaks to maintain energy over the two-day course.
Focus on footwork over brute strength
Precise foot placements and body positioning reduce fatigue and improve efficiency on crack climbs.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kangaroos grazing near climbing areas
- Grey Kangaroo and native birds endemic to the Grampians
History
The Grampians National Park was established in 1984 and is home to significant Aboriginal rock art sites.
Conservation
Climbing activities here are managed to protect the fragile sandstone ecosystems, with Leave No Trace principles strongly encouraged.
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Adventure Hotspots in Halls Gap
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Climbing harness
Provides safety and support for trad climbing moves in cracks.
Climbing shoes
Offers precision footwork needed for secure placements in cracks.
Tape gloves or climbing tape
Protects skin on hands during jamming and abrasive crack contact.
Helmet
Essential for protection from rockfall and impacts during climbs.