Rock Climbing Courses
Develop Your Rock Climbing Skills with NOLS
Adventure awaits! Embark on a thrilling journey into the world of rock climbing with NOLS. Our rock climbing courses offer unparalleled opportunities to learn, grow, challenge yourself and develop skills needed to pursue rock climbing in a variety of settings. Spend your days moving on rock, belaying, rope handling, building anchors, and more.
Depending on your course, you may experience a combination of bouldering, mock lead climbing, lead climbing, multi-pitch climbing, and top roping. You may learn to climb on a variety of rock types, from granite to limestone to sandstone, or focus your skills on one area.
Why Choose NOLS for Rock Climbing Courses?
Expert Rock Climbing Instructors
At NOLS, we pride ourselves on our team of expert climbing instructors who possess extensive climbing experience and a deep passion for teaching. They are not only skilled climbers but also outstanding educators, committed to sharing their knowledge and helping you become a confident climber.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our rock climbing courses are carefully crafted to provide a comprehensive learning experience. From fundamental techniques to advanced skills, our curriculum covers everything you need to know to excel in the vertical realm. You'll gain hands-on experience in belaying, rappelling, anchor building, assessing the best approach to the route, and much more.
Exceptional Rock Climbing Locations
When you choose NOLS, you choose to climb in some of the most breathtaking locations on the planet. From towering granite walls to majestic desert spires, our courses take you to iconic climbing destinations such as Wyoming’s Wind River mountains, the beautiful Pacific Northwest rock-climbing mecca of Squamish, and Red Rock Canyon.
Small Group Sizes
To ensure personalized attention and an optimal learning environment, our rock climbing courses maintain small group sizes. This allows you to form close-knit bonds with fellow climbers and receive individualized guidance from our climbing instructors. Together, you'll foster a supportive community that encourages growth and exploration.
Focus on Risk Management
Learn to identify subjective risks and anticipate objective risks. We provide rigorous training in risk management, hazard assessment, and emergency response, equipping you with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the vertical world with confidence and caution.
Wilderness Leadership Skills Development
NOLS rock climbing courses go beyond climbing skills, focusing on wilderness leadership. Learn decision-making, communication, and risk assessment in rugged landscapes. Develop resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities for unpredictable environments. Become a capable and responsible leader on and off the rock.
Embark on Your Rock Climbing Adventure with NOLS
NOLS invites you to join us on a rock climbing course that will challenge and inspire you. Our expert instructors, comprehensive curriculum, exceptional locations, and commitment to risk management make NOLS the ideal choice for your climbing journey.
Discover the thrill of scaling vertical walls and the serenity of breathtaking landscapes. Enroll in a NOLS rock climbing course today and unlock your true climbing potential!
Featured Rock Climbing Trips & Courses
Whether you're a beginner climber seeking to conquer your first rock face adventure or an experienced climber looking to enhance your skills, NOLS has the perfect course for you.
Spring Break Rock Climbing - 8 day
Looking for an unforgettable experience that challenges your limits, sharpens your skills, and leaves you transformed? The Spring Break Climbing Course at NOLS offers more than just climbing—it’s a gateway to mastering the art of leadership, building resilience, and navigating uncertainty with confidence.
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Rocky Mountain Rock Climbing
Embark on an unforgettable 19-day rock climbing journey in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where adventure, leadership, and personal growth await. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, this immersive NOLS course offers the perfect opportunity to refine your climbing techniques, develop essential leadership skills, and connect with the raw beauty of the American West.
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Women's Rock Climbing - Adult
Designed for women ready to build outdoor climbing skills and leadership in a supportive environment, this course will challenge you to grow personally and as a climber. Whether you’re transitioning from indoor climbing or stepping onto real rock for the first time, you’ll gain the foundational skills and confidence needed to tackle sport climbing.
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Backcountry Rock Climbing - 21 Day
Find new challenges rock climbing in the mountains. On this course, you’ll dive into learning leadership and rock climbing in one of the United States’ premier mountain ranges for climbing. You’ll start by backpacking deep into Wyoming’s Wind River mountains, where you’ll set up a base camp and learn the basics of outdoor living.
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Backcountry Rock Climbing - 21 Day - 18 and over
An epic 21-day backcountry rock climbing adventure in the Wind River Range, Wyoming—a premier destination for climbers seeking to push their limits in a wild, untouched environment. This course is tailored for climbers who want to elevate their skills in advanced climbing techniques, wilderness navigation, and leadership—all while surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Wyoming backcountry.
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Backcountry Rock Climbing - 30 Day
As you begin the climbing skills progression, you will learn and practice skills like tying knots, belaying, and placing climbing protection. As the course progresses, you may move into more advanced skills, like lead climbing and vertical rescue. On the days when you don’t climb, explore the area’s clear lakes and forests of lodgepole pine, learning about local ecology and human history.
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Learn More About Rock Climbing with NOLS
Beyond Rock Climbing Techniques: Building Leadership and Teamwork with NOLS
Learn rock climbing techniques, leadership, and teamwork through trust, self-awareness, and effective communication with NOLS.
Rock Climbing Gear Recommendations from NOLS Instructors
Get rock climbing gear recommendations from NOLS instructors! Learn what gear we use and our tips for caring for our equipment.
