Course Descriptions |
Beginner Climbing - ICE101
This one day course is a general introduction to waterfall ice climbing and general mountaineering. It is best suited for novice winter climbers – NO prior experience is needed or expected! |
Intermediate Climbing - ICE201
This one day course assumes some experience on ice – you have done some toproping, you know your knots, you may have some of your own equipment, but are looking for what to buy next – if you have caught the ice climbing bug and are ready for the next step, this course is for you! |
Learn To Lead - ICE301
This is an advanced level course for climbers who feel ready for the "sharp end". Leading is very rewarding but one really needs to be prepared. Smuggler’s Notch has a huge variety of beginner leading terrain, making it ideal to take those first steps. |
| Avalanche Awareness - AVL101 |
| Alpine Mountaineering - ALP101 |
Private Guiding
A private guide is the perfect opportunity to get personalized one on one instruction and guidance without having to deal with group dynamics. Looking to improve your mountain skills and savvy? Want a diversion from the crowded ski hill? Have a particular classic in mind? |
Military/Government
These specialized courses are open to any participants, but are designed with the special needs of military and other government units. SACS instructors teach standard industry practices, but with a tactical approach, suitable for military, border agents, and others working in severe mountain environments. We also offer discounted rates on equipment sales, and detailed and thorough instruction in their use, including military specific gear unavailable to the public. |
Beginner Climbing - ROCK101
For the beginner! If you have a desire to try rock climbing, you have met the prerequisite. This one day curriculum begins with "ground school", a thorough introduction to the equipment (shoes, harness, helmet, ropes, carabiners and slings) and how to use them properly. Next, we explain the fundamentals of the safety system: anchors and belaying techniques. The remainder of the day focuses on top-rope climbing, where you will get “hands on” rope skills and refine your own climbing technique. Spend a day among the beautiful crags of the Green Mountains with Sunrise Adventures! |
Intermediate Climbing - ROCK201
For those with some formal rock climbing instruction.
After some review of the Rock 101 fundamentals, it’s back on the cliff for more top-rope climbing. As you continue to refine the basics, you'll encounter new and varied climbing opportunities and be exposed to more challenging terrain. We will focus on a variety of face, slab, and crack climbing techniques. We will cover rappelling skills (descending via a rope), advanced anchoring systems, and the basics of multi-pitch climbing. We will end the day with a longer climb (two-three pitches), and rappel. This class will prepare you for becoming a competent and safe “second”. |
Learn To Lead - ROCK301
This course is for those wanting to get on the “sharp end” of the rope. The focus will be on traditional protection – placement, anchors, and organization. Using the “mock lead” technique, participants will safely learn the intricacies of being the lead climber without the inherent hazard. After this weekend course, your climbing opportunities will be greatly expanded. |
Technical Rescue
This course is open to those with prior climbing and ropework experience who want to expand their rescue toolbox. We will focus on partner rescue – escaping the belay chain, simple mechanical advantage, and safe lowering techniques. After a morning of “ground school”, we will move to the cliff and practice these new skills in different climbing scenarios. This course can also be tailored to rescue groups who want to learn more complex rigging and the science behind it, including complex litter lowers and raises, high lines, and deflections. |
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