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OK, I've gotten the ok (from the boss...Pat) to take a class this fall. Not wanting to jump into the EMT course I've been planning to take, I was thinking about taking something outdoor related, but am not sure what...

Perhaps an orienteering course? OR maybe a SCUBA class? Perhaps a climbing course through AMC?

Anybody have any suggestions or know of any quality courses in the area?

I plan on taking two AMC classes this Oct. to get prepared for my climb of Mt. Rainier next summer. They have a basic rock climbing class which is a prereq for the "Anchors" class and I'm going to do both of them. I'm interested in them to get more comfortable with ropes, cord, knots, and hardware. Better to get familiar with them down in the desert than up on the mountain!

--
Kevin

Tempe8:
I LOVE your picture!!

While I'm not sure about the quality of the classes - I recommend the climbing class.

Orienteering is great, and a lot of fun, but you can learn how to do all the cool stuff from books. Field practice can be a real hoot on your own too, especially in a familiar area (say Usery Mountain area). Classes are really just a chance to get some field practice alongside an expert. You can also accomplish that by joining one of the orienteering clubs in the valley. Although some of the members are "interesting" individuals.

Scuba? I would love to do that, but you have to get pretty far from Phoenix before you get anything interesting to see in the water. Probably better to plan a vacation, then you and Pat take a scuba class together shortly before the vacation.

Climbing though - now you have something to work with. Some of the techniques and practices can be learned through books - but a lot of it really needs to be hands on with a good instructor. Besides - there are all kinds of areas here in the valley to practice your craft once you get the skill. I highly recommend it.

I've been leaning toward the Climbing class...mostly because it is something I can do now, and after completing the class...scuba would require a trip and more gear (not that there is anything wrong with gear) and a kayaking class would likewise result in the urgent need to purchase more gear (not that there is anything wrong with that).

Hey - never anything wrong with purchasing new gear if the budget can handle it and the boss (read: wife) gives the green light.

A good set of beginner climbing gear will run you about $300-$400.

Shoes (approx. $100)
Harness (approx. $50)
Rope (approx. $180)
Various small accessories (beaners, belay device, chalk bag, etc.) (approx. $100)

That's the bare minimum to begin to do some top-roping - best way for a beginner.

I've been climbing since about 95, just not very well. We even used to hit a climbing gym once a week back in Illinois. I've done plenty of top roping and a bit of lead climbing, though nothing beyond 5.9. I've got a few harnesses, two pairs of shoes (including a neon green and pink mid-height purchased on closeout), a rope and some pro.

I haven't climbed much at all, a bit of bouldering only, since moving out here. Figure the class might reignite the spark...