The opening of the new Jackson Hole climbing gym has sparked an exciting surge in interest in climbing within our community. While this enthusiasm is to be celebrated, it’s essential to recognize the inherent risks associated with the sport, especially for those making the transition from indoor to outdoor climbing.
To address these challenges and support our local climbing community, the Teton Climbers’ Coalition is proud to announce the launch of the Safe Climbing Initiative (SCI). This comprehensive instructional series, which is specifically designed to enhance the safety and skills of climbers in Teton County, was recently approved by Teton County / Jackson Parks and Recreation Department.
The SCI Program Details:
The SCI will offer three progressive blocks of classes—Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced—each comprising two-hour sessions taught by expert guides from Exum Mountain Guides and Jackson Hole Mountain Guides. These professionally led classes will facilitate a safe, responsible transition from gym to outdoor climbing, ensuring accessible, high-quality safety training for all community members.
Class Schedule and Location:
- Dates: November 5, 19; December 3, 17; January 7, 21; February 4, 18; March 4, 18
- Times: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Location: Cloudveil Room and Teton County Recreation Center Climbing Gym
Class Breakdown:
- Beginning Series:
Focus on transitioning from gym to crag, covering essential skills such as etiquette, Leave No Trace principles, route finding, lead belaying, and setting up top-rope anchors. - Intermediate Series:
Designed for climbers ready to deepen their technical skills. Topics include rappelling techniques, anchor building (bolts, traditional/natural), multi-pitch transitions, and releasing guide-style belay devices. - Advanced Series:
Equips climbers with critical self-rescue skills for managing emergencies in challenging environments, including load transfers, belay escapes, rope ascending, and hauling systems.
Supporting the SCI:
The Teton Climbers’ Coalition is committed to offering the SCI at minimal cost to our community members. To achieve this, we are seeking support to underwrite essential expenses such as instructor fees, insurance, curriculum development, marketing, and logistics.
If you’d like to support the SCI or any of the other vital work we do, please consider donating through Old Bill’s Fun Run. Donations made through Old Bill’s receive a match, amplifying the impact of your contribution. The 2024 Old Bill’s giving season runs through September 13. Donate here.