Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! Our Intro to Outdoor Climbing course is designed specifically for total beginners. We'll teach you everything you need to know, and all gear is included.

Our Guided Climbing Experience is perfect for gym climbers transitioning outdoors. We'll help you adapt your skills to real rock, teach outdoor safety systems, and guide you through route selection.

Not at all! We tailor our instruction to your fitness level and climbing goals. We have routes for all abilities at Red River Gorge.

We have both completed the AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) course and are scheduled to take the SPI exam in fall 2026. AMGA is the gold standard for climbing instruction in the US. We'll be fully certified before our official launch in September 2026.

We follow AMGA standards for single-pitch guiding, including comprehensive risk management, redundant safety systems, and conservative terrain selection. Both guides are pursuing NOLS Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification and carry first aid kits and emergency communication devices on all trips.

Yes. We carry commercial general liability and professional liability insurance specifically for climbing instruction.

Yes. All clients must sign a liability waiver before participating. We'll send this to you via email after booking.

Nope! All technical climbing gear is included: harnesses, helmets, belay devices, ropes, and quickdraws. You just need to bring appropriate clothing, water, and snacks.

Comfortable athletic clothing that allows movement, closed-toe shoes (we provide climbing shoes if needed), and layers for changing weather. Avoid jeans—they restrict movement.

You're welcome to use your own gear if you prefer! We'll inspect it to ensure it meets safety standards.

We recommend booking at least 2 weeks in advance, especially for weekends and specialty clinics. Peak season (spring and fall) books up quickly.

You can cancel or reschedule up to 48 hours before your trip for a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours forfeit the deposit, but we're flexible for emergencies and bad weather.

If weather conditions pose unacceptable risk (rain, lightning, extreme heat), we'll work with you to reschedule at no charge. We monitor forecasts closely and will notify you 24 hours in advance if possible.

We'll send you detailed meeting location info after booking. We typically meet at a trailhead parking area at Red River Gorge. The exact location depends on your skill level and the routes we've selected.

Yes! All our services can be booked as private sessions. This is especially popular for families, custom coaching, or groups who want a tailored experience.

We typically guide groups of 1-6 people for standard trips. For specialty clinics, we cap at 6 participants to ensure personalized instruction.

Yes! Our Family Adventure Package is designed for children 4 and up. We climb with our own nearly 4-year-old son, so we understand how to make climbing fun and appropriately managed for kids.

Absolutely! Our Women's Climbing Clinic includes pelvic floor considerations, core strength work, and climbing technique in an all-women environment, led by our DPT-certified guide.

Our injury prevention clinic is led by a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in pelvic health and Pilates. We bring evidence-based movement observation, climbing-specific mobility work, and injury prevention strategies you won't find with other guide services. Note: This is climbing instruction informed by PT expertise, not physical therapy services or medical advice.

Always consult YOUR healthcare provider first and obtain medical clearance before climbing. We cannot provide medical advice, diagnose conditions, or modify instruction based on specific injuries. Our PT-informed coaching approach is not a substitute for medical care. You must be cleared by your own doctor to participate.

No. Our guiding services are completely separate from physical therapy practice. We do not provide PT evaluations, treatments, or medical advice during climbing sessions. Our DPT credentials inform our general movement coaching approach, but this is climbing instruction, not healthcare. If you need PT services, please contact a licensed physical therapist in your area.