SOLO TOP-ROPE SYSTEMS

Do you only have a couple hours after work? Has your partner bailed out again? Are you feeling bad about making belay slaves out of your friends while you work a project?

Top rope soloing is a very safe, time efficient way of getting a lot of climbing that doesn't require a partner. Learn how to utilize micro ascenders and rope clamps such as the Petzl Mini Traxion in conjunction with fixed point top-rope anchor set ups to rig effective, easy to use, self belayed climbing systems.

When done correctly top-rope soloing can be as safe and predictable as regular top-roping. Many components of these systems are unique and non-intuitive, requiring specific skills not taught in climbing manuals. Concepts covered during the day include:

• considerations and risk management when climbing alone
• top rope anchors for fixed ropes
• dynamic and static rope set ups
• fixed rope descent systems
• rope abrasion mitigation
• use of micro ascenders and rope grips
• back up systems
• use of directionals
• self rescue

Particpants should have previous experience setting up standard top ropes and rappelling.

By the end of the course particpants will feel comfortable setting up solo top rope systems on single pitch climbs with simple top anchor access.