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Master the Crag: Learn to Lead Sport Rock Climbing in Silverthorne, Colorado - Silverthorne

Master the Crag: Learn to Lead Sport Rock Climbing in Silverthorne, Colorado

Silverthornechallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

2–3 days

Fitness Level

Participants should be in good physical condition, comfortable with sustained upper body and core strength and moderate endurance.

Overview

Elevate your climbing skills with the Learn to Lead Sport Rock Climbing Course in Silverthorne, Colorado. This hands-on program empowers you to confidently lead sport routes on iconic Rocky Mountain granite.

Climbing
Sports
Walking Tour
Silverthorne, Colorado

Learn to Lead: Sport Rock Climbing Course

Let’s tie into the sharp end and lead some routes!

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Adventure Photos

Learn to Lead: Sport Rock Climbing Course photo 1

About This Adventure

Let’s tie into the sharp end and lead some routes! If you enjoy top-roping either in the gym or on real rock, and have the desire to lead under the guidance of a certified guide, this is the course for you. This one day course will take you through the process of learning to lead climb with bolted protection through a safe and encouraging method. Learn the importance of choosing an appropriate route to lead, proper clipping, building/cleaning sport anchors, and “third-hand” rappelling.

3 person minimum needed to run the course

In this course, climbers will learn, practice, and hone the following skills:

  • Transition from top-rope to leading

  • Setup, thread and clean bolted anchors

  • Techniques for belaying a leader

  • Identify routes appropriate for your ability

  • Climbing movement skills to improve efficiency

Itinerary


We will meet at the CAG office or a convenient rendezvous point, gear up, and head to the field. Meeting time is 8AM. We will spend the day in field instruction where we turn the backcountry into an experiential classroom where you will learn and practice your new climbing skills.

Trip Package Includes

  • CAG professional climbing guide (6:1 maximum guide to student ratio)
  • All climbing equipment
  • Transportation from designated meeting place to the trailhead
  • A safe, fun, and educational experience

Trip Package Does Not Include

  • Lodging
  • Clothing for weather conditions
  • Insurance (trip or rescue)
  • Instructor gratuity

Area Info


Colorado Adventure Guides is permitted to operate in a variety of terrain from Summit County to several adjacent counties, which allows us to access a variety of zones for courses. Typically we confirm our destinations about two weeks before the actual course to make sure we have the most appropriate terrain for the course. This course will take place in Summit County.

About Your Guides

Colorado Adventure Guides and Colorado Rafting Company, based in Silverthorne, CO, deliver four seasons of outdoor adventure and education. With operations in seven USFS and BLM ranger districts, we serve a dynamic and growing population of outdoor enthusiasts spanning Summit and Eagle Counties to the Denver Front Range. Our all-season, guided operations include:

  • Rock Climbing
  • Mountaineering
  • Hiking/Peak Ascents
  • Mountain Biking
  • Whitewater Rafting/SUPing
  • Backcountry Skiing
  • Backcountry Splitboarding
  • Snowshoeing
  • Ice Climbing
  • AIARE Snow Safety

We have been providing incredible experiences to visitors of Summit County and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned expert, let us take you on your next unforgettable outdoor adventure!

FAQs


Are there any prerequisites to participate in this course?

You should be an intermediate climber in the gym or on rock before this course.

How physically fit do I need to be to participate in this course?

Colorado Adventure Guides priority is keeping our patrons and students safe. Our guides and instructors are trained to recognize potentially hazardous situations in the backcountry; they plan and operate accordingly. Your ability to enjoy the adventure depends on your health and fitness, thus it’s recommended that you are in good physical condition.

When and how do I meet up with our instructor?

Your instructor will contact you at least 48 hours prior to your activity start date to finalize details regarding meeting location and time.

What should I bring?

We supply all climbing gear. You should bring water, food, snacks, closed toed shoes, sunglasses, pants or long shorts, synthetic materials shirt, and an extra insulating or waterproof layer.

Should we tip our instructor?

Your guide/instructors work hard before, during, and after your course to provide you with a great experience, and while not expected, gratuities are always highly appreciated. If you had a safe, educational, and fun experience, gratuities typically range from 15-20%.

Adventure Tips

Check Weather Before Climbing

Mountain weather can shift rapidly; clear skies can turn into storms, so always check the forecast before heading out.

Wear a Helmet

Protect yourself from rockfall and unexpected slips by wearing a climbing helmet at all times on the cliff.

Practice Knot Tying

Mastering figure-eight and stopper knots before your course will help you focus on lead techniques during instruction.

Communicate Clearly with Your Belayer

Establish clear commands and trust with your belayer to ensure safety and smooth lead climbing.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Mountain goat
  • Golden eagle

History

Silverthorne has been a hub for climbers since the 1960s, evolving alongside Colorado’s mountaineering boom.

Conservation

Local guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile alpine environment and maintain climbing access.

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Adventure Hotspots in Silverthorne

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Climbing Shoes

Essential

Precision footwear is essential for gripping small footholds on sport routes.

Climbing Helmet

Essential

Protects from falling debris and accidental impacts on rock faces.

Harness

Essential

A quality climbing harness is critical for safety and comfort during climbs.

Belay Device

Essential

Necessary for safely controlling the rope during lead belaying.