Gym to Crag: Natural Anchor Clinics

This class is aimed for climbers looking to get outside on their own, and are seeking instruction on how to set up extensive anchor systems using Natural features such as trees, and boulders for use in areas where there are limited or no fixed hardware/anchors.

The course also covers cliff/edge management so participants can feel comfortable navigating a cliff edge while analyzing and setting up their systems.

The class will take place outdoors in Prospect Park. The course is weather dependent but because it doesn't involve climbing, it will be able to run even in cold or slightly wet conditions.

This class provides assessment tools and skills for how to build the best anchor type for a given scenario.

  • Relevant Knots: Common knots used to build anchors

  • Natural Anchors: V Rigging, Monolithic, Component selection, and System setups

  • Safe access strategies: Assessment Tools and strategies for navigating the cliffs edge while not climbing

Prerequisites: 

  • Toprope certified at MetroRock Bushwick

  • Familiar and comfortable with basic principles of anchor building and familiar with some common knots used in climbing. (We recommend taking our Anchors and Rappelling course to prepare if needed.)

  • Rappelling: Must be comfortable with setting up rappel device and rappelling outside (if not experienced, suggest anchors and rappelling class for students)

Materials Required: Harness, comfortable trail shoes, food & water, layers/clothes appropriate for the weather, sun care.

*Harness, helmet, and shoes are available from Metrorock if climbers do not have their own.

Metrorock will provide all necessary equipment and materials needed for the course, however, students should bring any and all personal climbing gear such as slings, cords, etc. so they can become comfortable using their own equipment, rather than using provided equipment students may not have regular access to.


Transportation: We will be meeting at Prospect Park. Participants are responsible for their own transportation and timely arrival.

Must be at least 18 years old

3 Climbers : 1 Instructor with a 2-person minimum

Non-Members | $150

Members | $125

To schedule a course outside of the times on the calendar, email programs@metrorock.com.

Climbing is inherently dangerous. This class is intended to alleviate risk but does not eliminate it entirely.