TRAD DAY

Intro to Trad Climbing

Come out to Great Falls and join us for a fun and relaxed introduction to trad (traditional) climbing! All instruction will be under the supervision of experienced instructors and all climbing will be mock leads—on a top rope, while placing/clipping gear to simulate a trad lead.

Who: Scouting youth aged 13 and above with climbing experience—either in the gym or top-roping on natural rock. This is a youth-only class. Adults interested in this training can contact Sportrock Climbing Centers regarding their Introduction to Trad Climbing class.

What: Learn about trad climbing with removable anchors that do not damage the rock. We will spend the day learning a little about the history of trad climbing and the evolution of the gear. Most of the time will be spent learning to place and clean cams, nuts, and other types of trad gear, first at ground level, then on a top-roped mock lead. This is an introduction to trad climbing and an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the equipment used. This is not training that would allow you to begin trad lead climbing on your own.

When: April 19, 2025, 8 AM to 5 PM.

Where: Great Falls Park, McLean, VA.

Why: Because you can’t spell trad without rad. And because you’ve mastered the top rope and now you’re looking to learn some new skills.

Cost: $15 per Scout, plus a park entrance fee when the gate is staffed.

Requirements: Every registrant must deliver a consent form and Scouting America A/B health forms completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian. See the registration "Attachments" section for blank forms and detailed event information. You may not participate without signed forms. Gear will be provided but feel free to bring your own helmet/harness/shoes if you have them. Bring your own sack lunch and two liters of water.

Registration: Click/tap the "Register Now!" button and supply the required information. Everyone goes on the waitlist initially until an instructor can contact you to ensure that the class is a good fit for your experience level. Since this is a hands-on class with specialized equipment and a lot of student/instructor interaction we have limited enrollment to eight. If the waitlist grows long we will look into adding more sessions through the year.