MetroRock Outdoor Programs




Trad Anchor Clinics

This class is aimed at climbers looking to get outside on their own, and who are seeking instruction on how to set up extensive anchor systems in areas where there is limited or no fixed hardware/anchors. This class will prepare climbers to build and equalize anchors for top roping and rappelling using trad gear.

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.


Natural Anchor Clinics

This class is aimed for climbers seeking instruction on how to set up extensive top rope 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.

Rescue 1: Rescue from the bottom

This class is aimed at climbers looking to gain introductory rescue skills in an outdoor scenario. This class focuses on single pitch base managed scenarios, i.e, top rope or sport climbing, where the belayer is located on the ground. It covers: 

  • belay takeovers (weighted and unweighted), ascending to a stuck climber, and counterbalancing lower with an injured climber.

  • How to understand the concepts and applications of 1) ascending, 2) mechanical advantage, and 3) load transfer

  • How to understand the appropriate use of these skills: “The right tool, at the right time, for the right reason.”

We will cover how one can do these skills with the common climbing gear they may have on their harness on a typical outdoor climbing day. 


Ready to climb outside?

Whether you want to gain the knowledge for your first outdoor trip or want to practice more advanced skills for trad or rescue situations, we’re here to help!

Courses and outings are offered for all levels of experience at some of the region’s finest crags. All courses and events may be booked privately or in small groups at any time. Private courses are tailored to you and your group’s specific interests and abilities. Courses are also offered for open enrollment throughout the season, approximately April through November. All MetroRock Outdoor Programs instructors have achieved at minimum AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Certification.

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Bouldering Trips

Enjoy a full day of bouldering at one of New York City’s nearby crags! We offer single day and multi-day trips with guidance and support from an experienced guide. Get to know the bouldering in Powerlinez, Nine Corner Lake, and even Central Park! Try bouldering outdoors for the first time, or just enjoy a day of rock climbing with friends new and old. Private groups may request an objective and priorities for the day. Open enrollment days will be tailored to best accommodate the climbing experience for the entirety of the group present.


Rope Climbing Trips

We also offer sport and top rope trips! Expect a full day of climbing, exploring, and learning at crags like the Gunks, Chatfield Hollow, Hanging Mountain, Birdsboro, Powerlinez, St. John’s Ledges, and more. Guided climbing trips are appropriate for most experience levels, but climbers must be top rope certified at MetroRock Bushwick and at least 18 years old (with the exception of Youth and Family Trips!). Private trips available.

Rescue 2: Rescue from the top

This class is aimed at climbers looking to gain introductory rescue skills in top-managed scenarios where the belayer is belaying from above. This can be a single pitch or a multi-pitch scenario.

We will cover rescue skills like:

  • Vector Pulls

  • Mechanical advantage systems like the 3:1 and 3:1 Assist

  • hHw to gauge when each system is appropriate

  • Belaying from above on a manual breaking belay device (ATC) and assisted braking belay device (Grigri).

Gym to Crag: Anchors and Rappelling

A full day class designed to teach indoor lead climbers everything they need to know about sport climbing and top roping on bolted routes outdoors. Gain the skills to confidently transition to outdoor sport climbing, including setting up and cleaning anchors, rappelling, and navigating the additional hazards of climbing outside.

Available as a full day class or as separate anchors class and rappelling class!