Intro to Big Wall

About Sam MacIlwaine:

Sam MacIlwaine is an Associate Editor for Climbing Magazine and a former Yosemite Climber Steward. She gravitates toward dramatic, all-consuming projects and enjoys pushing her limits in multiple styles. Sam is best known for her burly offwidth roof ascents, including Belly Full of Bad Berries (5.13), Supreme Manliness (5.13-), The Angry Pirate (5.13), Bruce Lee as FUCK (5.12-), and Earle Struggs (5.13). A former Yosemite Climber Steward, she loves big wall climbing, and she has completed several multi-day El Capitan routes, including the Nose (5.9 C2, 3000'), Zodiac (5.7 A2, 1800'), and Mescalito (5.8 A3, 2800'). Outside of climbing, Sam enjoys writing, teaching, and connecting with other women and LGBTQ+ climbers. She is currently based in Moab.

About Intro to Big Wall:

Dreaming of climbing something big? Intro to Big Wall will give you a clear understanding of how the rhythm of big wall climbing differs from traditional multi-pitch climbing, what exact skills you need to master to feel comfortable starting up a wall, and how to choose your first big wall objective. This could also be a good refresher for climbers looking to feel more confident in their overall big wall approach. Learn how to set up a big wall anchor, haul, jug, and survive on a portaledge.

Thank you to Climbing Magazine for sponsoring this clinic!

Prerequisites:

Gear Requirements: 

• Personal Climbing Gear (harness, shoes, helmet) 

• Water, snacks

• Sun protection 

• Rope + quickdraws if you have them (not required)