Route Setting Update: Lead Training Routes
By Tino Fiumara
Hello from the world of route setting. It has been a busy fall and we hope that everyone has enjoyed new sets that have been going up. All of the bouldering (over 110 problems) and the entire Lead Wall (37 routes) were reset and now we’ve been pouring our setting energy into the Top Ropes! You’ll notice a distinct increase in the route density throughout the top rope area. We have purchased more holds, made more volumes (some color specific), and have been putting up more routes of all grades. Climbers will find more lead-training routes in the Top Rope area where new leaders can build the skills and confidence to climb more in the Lead-Only areas.
These routes are designed with more straight-forward movement, allowing new leaders focus their energies on :
- Clipping in the proper zones (knees to nose and not above your head)
- Finding natural clipping stances
- Climbing in overhanging terrain on lead
These routes are noted as good lead training, so newly certified leaders should go find them. Participants in the lead class will find them great for mock leading too!