SLCA Festival Trad Climbing Clinic in Kamas, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness and be comfortable with basic climbing movement.
Overview
Experience the essentials of traditional climbing at the SLCA Festival in Kamas, Utah. Gain hands-on skills with expert guides in a supportive, safety-focused setting.
SLCA Festival - Intro to Trad
$150 3:1 Student:Instructor Ratio
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join an immersive 6-hour traditional climbing clinic led by AMGA trained guides at the Salt Lake Climbers Festival. Experience hands-on instruction in gear placement, route selection, and safety strategies, all while enjoying a supportive community atmosphere. Perfect for those eager to enhance their climbing skills and confidence in a unique setting.
This is a 3:1 low ratio offering with AMGA trained guides. This is not intended to be an 'on the ground only' clinic. Students will climb and place gear with direct instructor feedback and appropriate safety systems in place.
This clinic is priced at a discount exclusively for the Salt Lake Climbers Festival as a way to give back to the community.
Rates
- $150 per person
Duration
~6 hours in the field. Depart The Notch at 1030am and return no later than 530pm.
About
“Trad”, or traditional, climbing means placing protection on lead and building anchors with removable, re-usable equipment that fits into cracks in the rock. While most trad-climbers no longer trust their lives to a machine nut with some string tied through it, learning how to place modern equipment securely takes practice and a creative mind. Get started with each in this exciting course!
Topics Include:
-Route selection and risk assessment -Racking -Assessing rock quality -Placement of active and passive protection -Minimizing rope drag -Safe leading and following- strategy with gear -Building anchors -Belay considerations
Adventure Tips
Wear climbing shoes with good grip
Proper climbing shoes will improve your footing and comfort during trad climbs.
Bring plenty of water
Hydration is key, especially when climbing in Utah’s dry climate.
Arrive early to warm up
Starting with light stretching and easy boulder problems helps prevent injury.
Listen carefully to guide instructions
Trad climbing involves precise techniques; paying close attention ensures your safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- mule deer
- mountain bluebirds
History
Kamas was historically a ranching hub and gateway town for mountain explorers dating back to early settlers.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving fragile alpine ecosystems and minimizing climber impact on rock and vegetation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Salt Lake City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Climbing shoes
Provides essential grip and control on rock surfaces.
Helmet
Protects your head from falling debris and impacts.
Harness
Necessary for safe attachment to the rope system.
Layered clothing
Keeps you comfortable as temperatures fluctuate in spring weather.
spring specific