Red River Gorge Climbing Trip
Who is this for?
Lead climbers who have been climbing indoors and comfortable leading 5.10a, who want to transition to outdoor lead climbing and become autonomous on their first rock climbing trip.Pre-trip courses
Here is how we will help you transition from indoor to outdoor lead climbing and prepare you for your first rock climbing trip.
Included in this trip package is 2 courses:
- Lead climbing perfectioning: belaying, clipping, falling, body positioning in regards to the rope (indoors at a gym)
- Lead transition to outdoor: placing quickdraws, building an anchor, cleaning (outdoors near Montreal)
Participants must be free 1 weekend day (April 15 or 16) and 1 evening.
Pre-requisite: Lead climbing course (you must already know how to lead climb)


What's Included
● Outdoor lead transition course near Montreal
● Personalized coaching session on climbing movements and lead climbing techniques
● Trip Itinerary customized to the group - we'll show you the best spots to climb, sleep, eat, and spend your rest days!
● Logistics of how to climb outdoors: we'll show you how to prepare, plan, and pack for a day at the crag!
● Mentoring and instructions on practical and safety tips
● Building a sense of community and growing your climbing network
● A safe space to learn, practice, and have fun!
● Professional photographs to keep as memories
● Discounts on climbing equipment and gift bag from sponsors
● Camping gear for rent
● Climbing gear for rent
Not included:
● Transportation: we can help coordinate carpool with other participants or airport pick-up on arrival
● Comfort lodging (field camping / RV / van camping is accessible)
● Trip Insurance
What you will learn
● Lead climbing perfectioning (belaying, clipping, falling, and body positioning in regards to the rope)
● How to place quickdraws, build an anchor and clean
● How to read a guide book
● How to plan your climbing day
● How to pick and read a route
● How to prepare your climbing bag + a packing list
● How to warm up outdoors
● How to manage climbing days and rest days
● Self-rescue / how to ascend a rope
● Mental game training
And so much more!


Suggested Itinerary
Saturday, October 14: Arrival
Sunday, October 15: Climb
Monday, October 16: Climb
Tuesday, October 17: Rest Day
Wednesday, October 18: Climb
Thursday, October 19: Climb
Friday, October 20: Climb
Saturday, October 21: Half day climb/departure
Sunday, October 22: Departure
* Climbing & rest days are subject to change depending on the weather and how your body feels
Who will be your leaders?

Emma Contaoe
Monitrice Rocher FQME, Quebec
Hey I’m Emma! I have been climbing for 10 years, and teaching for 6. I learned how to lead climb in Thailand and was hooked with the feeling of being on the rock, staying focused and feeling satisfied when I try something hard. What i love most about lead climbing is the visualization and execution of movements. I've been climbing outdoors around the world including places like Cat Ba in Vietnam, Taghia in Morocco, Mykonos in Greece, El Potrero Chico in Mexico, and many more.
I'm excited to share my knowledge of how to get into outdoor lead climbing and planning a trip of your own!
Tu-Mai Vu
Monitrice Rocher FQME, Quebec
Hi, I'm Tu-Mai! I have been climbing for 9 years, and started climbing out West, when I used to live in the Canadian Rockies. I have since climbed all along the US east coast, up to Quebec. I am passionate about rock climbing and teaching, and have a particular soft spot for new climbers and children.
What I love the most about climbing is the puzzle aspect of it, and finding your own beta to overcome moves and sections that were initially deemed "impossible". I find rock climbing to be a perfect vehicle to learn and apply concepts of wellness and self-development - it's not just physical, but also mental, emotional, and even spiritual!
I'm excited to support you in your climbing journey and hold a safe space for you to learn, grow, and flourish in a light and playful environment.

Got any questions?
Reach out to us with any questions you may have, whether it be transportation, lodging, logistics, etc. We're happy to help! :)