Curriculum Outline — Self Rescue
Curriculum Outline for Sport Climbing Clinic
Self-introductions: instructor and participants
Knot, and friction hitch, and munter overview
guided discussion on different scenarios climbers might find themselves in
Counterbalance rope ascension and descending with a injured climber (Pick Off)
Escaping the belay both gri gri and atc tie offs
Belaying from above raising systems, belay escapes
Improvised rappelling techniques, ascending from a rappel
Knot Passes for both rappelling and lowering
Wrap-up: discussion, Q&A, and extra practice on request
Self Rescue
WWhat will you do if a lightning storm rolls in while you’re 400 feet above the ground? Or if a partner gets sick, injured, or panics when retreat isn’t an option? Maybe your rope is cut or you drop essential gear. Do you and your partner have the skills to get off the cliff safely? The truth: many climbers push into terrain beyond their abilities. Don’t end up in a situation you can’t fix.
Our Self-Rescue Course teaches the critical techniques to save the day when things go wrong. Topics may include load transfers, anchors and improv bridges, belay escapes, knot passing, hauling systems, rope ascension, rescue spiders, and more. Some are advanced self-rescue methods, but many are essential skills every climber should know.
Who this course is for
Trad and multipitch climbers looking to become more self-sufficient
Climbers transitioning into more remote or alpine terrain
Anyone seeking to improve technical skills and emergency response in the vertical world
What you’ll learn
Escaping the belay
Load transfers and raising systems
Counterbalance rappels
Climber pick-offs and tandem rappels
Ascending the rope with friction hitches
Knot passes and back up systems
Belaying and lowering with an injured partner
On-the-fly problem-solving for common issues
Outdoor ethics & Leave No Trace: responsible practices for preserving crags and the St. Croix River corridor.
What to expect - Self Rescue
Expect an educational course on the dos and do nots of climbing, showing you how to avoid common mistakes so you can have more fun and climb with confidence. This course will teach you how to handle scenarios you could find yourself in up on the wall, from stuck belays to awkward ledge situations, using clear, repeatable techniques. Your group will be guided through varying challenges and taught how to efficiently and safely get out of them, building real-world problem-solving skills you can rely on. With the goal of becoming a more confident and competent climber, our curriculum emphasizes hands-on practice, situational awareness, and decision-making under pressure. Our self-rescue courses blend fun with professional, certification-level instruction. For local, expert-led training along the scenic St. Croix River, trust Forged Guides to elevate your skills and keep your climbs safe.
Logistics
Location: Interstate Park, MN/WI along the scenic St. Croix River
Duration: Half-day and full-day options available.
Group sizes: Small groups for personalized coaching and safety.
Gear: We provide helmets, harnesses, ropes, and technical equipment; participants should bring, weather-appropriate clothing, water, snacks. and sunscreen/bug spray.
Schedule your Forged Guides Trip here!
"The best climber in the world is the one having the most fun!" - Alex Lowe.
Feel free to reach out with any questions. Our Forged Guides team looks forward to climbing with you!
Know Before you Go - Interstate Park
Interstate State Park, straddling the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, boasts a captivating natural history. Shaped by glacial forces, the park showcases dramatic basalt cliffs, beautiful river views, and unique geological formations like the renowned glacial potholes. This ancient landscape supports diverse ecosystems, including old-growth forests, vibrant wetlands, and the scenic St. Croix River, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring the region's rich geological past.