moderate
6–8 hours
Participants should have good endurance and upper body strength, comfortable with sustained climbing effort.
Advance your climbing skills with a one-day traditional lead climbing course in Temiskaming Shores, guided by an ACMG-certified instructor. Perfect for sport climbers ready to tackle natural rock protection and single-pitch trad routes.
Ages 18+ • 1 Day • Perfect for climbers looking to transition into trad climbing
Experience the thrill of traditional lead climbing in this one-day course, perfect for climbers with a sport climbing background. Gain essential skills to safely tackle single-pitch trad routes, guided by an ACMG-certified instructor. Elevate your climbing journey and build confidence as you prepare for independent adventures in stunning BC locations.
1 day
Trad Foundations: Intro to Trad Lead Climbing - 1 Day course is a condensed and focused introduction to traditional lead climbing. Designed for climbers with a background in sport climbing or familiarity with basic lead climbing principles, this course offers an accelerated yet comprehensive overview of trad climbing techniques. Upon completion, participants will have the skills to safely lead single-pitch trad routes, setting a strong foundation for independent climbing adventures. Course locations are available in Victoria Nanaimo Comox Lake (Cumberland BC) Squamish, BC.
For those who want a more in-depth experience, we also offer a Master the Rack - Trad leading Essentials - 2 day course, providing additional time to refine gear placements and skills. This option is ideal for climbers looking to gain confidence in placing protection and managing routes independently.
Course locations are available in
Victoria, BC Nanaimo, BC Comox Lake (Cumberland BC) Squamish, BC
Intermediate: For climbers with some experience, this level includes more technical climbs with steeper terrain, moderate endurance, and difficulty. You should be comfortable with top-rope climbing and able to handle more challenging routes. Fitness Level: Moderate Experience Level: Prior experience with lead climbing or sport climbing recommended Grade: Indoor routes: 5.8-5.10a (YDS) Focus: Intermediate climbing techniques and endurance Example: Top-rope climbing on moderately difficult routes, multi-pitch climbs on less challenging terrain
This course is perfect for climbers looking to transition into trad climbing, providing essential skills and knowledge to confidently approach single-pitch trad routes and beyond.
For climbers ready to expand their skills further, we recommend following this course with our Multi-pitch Skills course, which is scheduled on the same weekend. This combination provides an ideal pathway into the world of multi-pitch climbing. Alternatively, our 2-day Master the Rack- Trad leading Essentials Course offers a deeper dive, perfect for those who want more practice and preparation for climbing on their own.
ACMG-certified guide, trad gear, and group safety equipment
Not Included: Personal climbing gear (e.g., harness, shoes, helmet), food, water, and transportation to the crag Rock Climbing Gear Rental Package available as an add-on.
Granite with quartz veins offers great friction but can be brittle after rain; climb dry rock only.
Bring a full trad rack including nuts and cams to practice placements during the course.
Temperatures vary, so carry enough water for physical exertion throughout your training.
Weather can change rapidly; wear breathable layers suited for outdoor climbing in northern Ontario.
Temiskaming Shores lies within traditional Algonquin territory and its cliffs have supported climbing culture since the early 2000s.
The area promotes Leave No Trace ethics to protect fragile rock ecosystems and surrounding boreal forest.
Necessary for practicing natural protection placements on trad routes.
Protects from falling debris and rock during climbs.
Provide the grip and sensitivity needed on granite surfaces.
Ensures secure rope management during lead and belay.