Field Trip Summary: This field trip builds on the foundational skills from course lectures and the Freedom of the Hills text. Participants will work in teams to complete multiple skill stations, demonstrating mastery of essential climbing knots, belay skills, and climbing commands. The field trip also introduces anchor evaluation, fixed-line travel, and snow belays. Expect a mix of hands-on practice and demonstrations in an outdoor setting. Be prepared for wet and muddy conditions; avoid wearing expensive climbing gear. Consider bringing a sit pad suitable for muddy terrain.
Please complete your self evaluation after the completion of this field trip: https://forms.gle/7v3mDZXeevdwygk39
Duration: All Day – Approximately 10 hours
Freedom of the Hills: Chapters 8, 9, 10, 11 as well as pg. 38-45, 363-368, and 372.
Critical Skills to anticipate for Field Trip 3: Knots and hitches, Belay Escape, and Belay Techniques: Pull-Brake-Under-Slide (PBUS)
Critical Skills for Field Trip 2:
Knots and Hitches (FOTH pg. 158-168)
Single Bowline
Water Knot
Figure Eight Rewoven
Figure Eight Loop
Grapevine/Fisherman’s Knot
Alpine Butterfly
Mule Knot (check at belay escape)
Bachmann Hitch
Clove Hitch
Münter Hitch
Girth Hitch
Prusik Hitch
Autoblock Hitch
SSS belay with device and munter (FOTH pg. 167-168 and 204)
Climbing Commands (FOTH pg. 220)
Proficiency for all critical skills is explained in the scoring rubric.
Practice and Objectives:
Belay Escape (FOTH pg. 221-222)
Observe a demonstration of the Belay Escape, get practice implementing it, and discuss the function of the system.
Mule Knot
Munter-mule-overhand
Understanding of the system
Ice Axe Belays (FOTH pg. 363-368, 372)
Introduction to snow belay techniques:
Standing Carabiner/Ice Axe Belay
Sitting Hip Belay (FOTH pg. 204-206 & 372)
Introduction to sitting hip belay techniques:
Setup Belay
Slip - Slap - Slide technique
Please note that the approved approach differs from FOTH, you should be putting your control carabiner into your belay loop, not your two hard points.
Fixed-Line Travel/Hand Line (FOTH pg. 190-191)
Introduction to using fixed lines for climbing scenarios and the following skills:
Bypass knots
Bypass anchors
Extended Rappel (FOTH pg. 235-236)
Introduction to extended rappel techniques.
Rope Handling (FOTH pg. 154-158 & 430)
Practice coiling ropes for transport and storage. Including the following methods:
Butterfly Coil
Kiwi Coil
Anchor Evaluation (FOTH pg. 206-214)
Practice and discuss the following:
Setting and equalizing
Solid, Efficient, Redundant, Equalized, Non-Extending (SERENE) Anchors
10 Essentials Evaluation (FOTH pg. 38-45)
Evaluation of your 10 essentials. Please ensure you bring your 10 essentials to show. Be ready to discuss your gear choices.
Carabiners
2 large locking pear carabiners
4 medium to large locking carabiners
6 non-locking solid or wire-gate standard carabiners
Locking carabiners are essential for secure belay systems, anchor setups, and rappel connections. They ensure safety during critical tasks. Non-locking carabiners are more versatile, ideal for attaching gear, securing runners, or creating temporary connections during climbs.
Webbing, Runners, and Slings
(1) Personal Anchor 18mm/120cm pre-sewn double runner or chain style PAS (Personal Anchor System)
(1) Single Runner 5 feet of 1 inch webbing for tied nylon single runner or 120 cm pre-sewn nylon or dyneema runner
(2) Double Runner 9 feet of 1 inch webbing for tied nylon double runner or 240 cm pre-sewn nylon or dyneema runner
(1) Triple Runner 13 feet of 1 inch webbing for nylon triple runner (NOT pre sewn)
(1) Tied Runner at least 9.5 feet of 1 inch nylon webbing in a color different from your other runners. This will be used for a chest harness which you will size in class and tie with a water knot.
Runners provide critical support for personal anchors and ascending systems. The nylon runner is durable for anchor connections, while the Dyneema runner is lightweight and is used with a carabiner for rope ascension.
Webbing is versatile for creating custom runners, anchors, or a chest harness. Different lengths allow for flexibility in various climbing scenarios, while color differentiation ensures clarity when assembling systems like chest harnesses.
Accessory Cords
(1) 5-6 feet of 6mm accessory cord
(1) 3-5 feet of 6mm accessory cord
(2) 5-6 feet of 5mm accessory cord
(Optional) Hollow Block or presewn prusik loop
Climbing accessory cords are versatile tools for ascending ropes, creating backup systems, and performing self-rescue techniques. The autoblock loop is a critical component of a self-belay or backup system during rappels. Different lengths and diameters of accessory cord allow for a variety of uses, from prusik loops to emergency knots, ensuring you're prepared for a wide range of climbing scenarios.
Belay Device
(1) Tube style Belay Device.
(Optional) Assisted braking device
NOTE: If you bring an assisted braking device this needs to be in addition to the tube style device, not in place of.
A belay device ensures controlled friction for safe belaying and rappelling.
Leather belay gloves
Leather belay gloves protect your hands from rope burn while providing a better grip, especially during rappelling or extended belay sessions. They ensure comfort and safety by reducing friction.
Day pack or large pack
A day pack is necessary for carrying your gear, food, water, and any extra clothing needed for the day. It helps distribute weight evenly and keeps your essentials organized and accessible.
UIAA-approved climbing helmet
A climbing helmet is vital for head protection against falling rocks, debris, or impacts. UIAA approval ensures the helmet meets international safety standards for climbing activities.
Approved climbing harness with belay loop
An approved climbing harness is crucial for attaching yourself to the rope and securing you during climbing activities. The belay loop is a reinforced attachment point for the belay device, ensuring secure belaying.
Ice axe
An ice axe is used for ice climbing and self-arrest techniques, providing stability and safety on icy terrain. It also serves as an essential tool for anchoring or cutting steps in snow.
Mountaineering boots
Mountaineering boots are designed for technical terrain and cold weather, providing warmth, support, and traction. They are necessary for safety when walking on snow, ice, or rocky surfaces in high-altitude or challenging conditions.
10 Essentials
Navigation
Headlamp
Sun Protection
First aid
Knife (Repair Kit)
Fire
Shelter
Extra food
Extra water
Extra clothes
The 10 Essentials are vital for ensuring safety and survival in the wilderness. Navigation tools help you stay on course, while a headlamp ensures visibility in low light. Sun protection is crucial for preventing sunburns, and a first aid kit is important for treating injuries. A knife serves multiple purposes, including gear repair and emergency tasks. Fire is necessary for warmth and signaling, and shelter ensures protection from the elements. Extra food, water, and clothing are essential to meet your basic needs during the field trip.