Queer Trad Climbing 101 Weekend

Service Description

Two-day weekend course: Saturday September 12, 8am–4pm + Sunday September 13, 8am–1pm Location: Index, Washington 5:1 max climber to instructor ratio Focus on trad gear placement, anchor building, and leading fundamentals Who is this for? LGBTQIA2S+ climbers ready to take the next step: This weekend is exclusively for members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. OUT in the Wild exists to provide a space where queer climbers can build technical skills, find community, and feel genuinely represented — by guides who share those identities. Whether you're a solo queer climber looking for your people or hoping to add a new discipline, this is your space. Climbers who want a brave, non-competitive learning environment: Our instructors are queer people committed to creating a trauma-informed, psychologically safe space to try hard and make mistakes. Outdoor climbing culture hasn't always welcomed us — we're building something different. Climber Prerequisites This program is designed for climbers ready to move beyond top rope and into the world of trad. You'll get the most out of the weekend if you are able to*: - Top-rope belay independently with a tube-style (ATC) or assisted braking (GriGri) device - Have experience lead climbing indoors or outdoors. - Climb 5.9 comfortably in the gym - Tie in with a figure-8 follow-through and complete your own safety checks *If you're curious but not sure if it's a good fit, please reach out! We're always happy to talk more about experience levels and answer questions. What's included? Instruction covering trad gear selection and placement (cams, nuts, hexes, and more), anchor building with gear, and supervised trad leading with a top rope backup. Personal climbing equipment: Harnesses and Helmets - WE DO NOT RENT SHOES Group gear: ropes, anchoring material, belay devices, and trad rack* What You'll Learn Trad gear: We'll cover the full range of protection — cams, nuts, hexes, and more — including how each piece works and how to evaluate a placement. Gear placement: Hands-on practice placing gear in real rock, with real-time feedback from a certified guide. Crack technique: Hand jams, foot technique, and body positioning to help you move efficiently and confidently in cracks. Leading fundamentals: An introduction to trad leading principles, with the opportunity to practice on mock leads with a top rope backup.