Core Curriculum
Learn to rock climb at Salt Pump. These foundational classes are offered on a regular basis and are designed to provide a solid introduction to each of the core climbing activities offered at Salt Pump. Intro to Climbing covers the basics of bouldering, belayed top-rope climbing, and auto-belays, while Lead Climbing teaches the fundamentals of ground-up climbing required to ascend Salt Pump’s steepest walls. Both courses also emphasize simple techniques to make climbing safer, and more fun. Custom times and private instruction for all our courses are available upon request.
Do you represent a group that may be interested in climbing or meeting at Salt Pump? Contact us for group booking information.
Consider completing our digital waiver before visiting to make the registration process a breeze!
Intro to Climbing Class
This is where you learn to rock climb. In this two hour course, you’ll learn all the fundamentals to be a competent top rope climber and belayer, including basic climbing knots, proper belay technique, and communication. This class also includes a short introduction to climbing movement and bouldering, route reading, and instruction in how to use our auto belays.
SCHEDULE: Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 6:30 - 8:30 p.m, Saturdays & Sundays 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Also available by private booking. Please register online, in person, or call at least one hour before class time to participate.
PRICE: $60. Includes instruction, climbing gear rentals, and a free two week membership trial (with rental gear included...an additional $38 value)!
PREREQUISITE: Registrants must be 14 years of age, no climbing experience required.
Lead Climbing Class
Are you feeling ready for the sharp end? Our 3-part lead climbing course is an in-depth and comprehensive course detailing everything a climber needs to learn to safely lead climb and belay at Salt Pump, including gear overview, anchors overview, lead belaying, clipping techniques, rope mechanics and management, and how to fall. We’ll get in lots of climbing, too!
SCHEDULE: Wednesdays 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
PRICE: $180. Includes six hours of instruction over three classes
Day passes and rental gear for each class day are also included ($33 value).
PREREQUISITE: top rope belaying, comfortable climbing 5.9 or harder, 16 years of age or older.
Please inquire at the front desk or via phone at (207) 219-8145 to book.
Intro to Movement Class
This 90 minute class is designed to teach the basics of climbing movement and technique and offered at two different skill levels.
Level 1: Meant for those who are still discovering the basics of footwork and hand positions and is highly recommended before taking Level 2.
Level 2: Covers more advanced body positions and can help address any bad habits that may have started. Proper warming up, footwork, route reading, balance, and hand positions are just some of the topics we focus on.
SCHEDULE: Mondays 6:30pm to 8:00pm (Level 1 & Level 2 will alternate each week)
PRICE: $60 for either level includes instruction, admission on class day, and rental gear on class day.
PREREQUISITE: Must be 12 years or older.
GriGri Lead Belay Technique Class
This one-hour class is for lead climbers interested in learning the techniques and subtleties of lead belaying with a Grigri. You’ll learn the differences, the pros and cons of ATC vs. Grigri belaying, how to safely and efficiently feed out slack for the clip, not short-rope your climber, and even give your softest catch yet.
SCHEDULE: Available by private booking.
PRICE: $40 ($20 for current lead class students)
Complimentary with every Grigri purchase at Salt Pump’s pro shop!
PREREQUISITE: Must be lead certified at Salt Pump.
Day-pass or rentals are not included in the price of the class.
Private Instruction
For those who are on a tight schedule, or prefer the added value of one-on-one learning, our gym guides are available to teach any course or skills seminar by private booking. Please contact us or call (207) 219-8145 for rates and more information.
"I just completed the Intro to Climbing class at Salt Pump. As a first-time climber, I feared this would be an intimidating and awkward experience. But the staff and community at the gym was so welcoming and non-judgmental. It helped me put my fears at ease. Our class instructor, Zack, was phenomenal."
- Justin, FACEBOOK REVIEW
