Thacher’s climbing program, offered in the fall and spring sports seasons, gives students the chance to learn and expand upon the basics of climbing. Because we have both a state-of-the-art climbing wall and a large boulder field on campus, students develop an understanding of rope systems as well as free climbing techniques, without having to travel to a climbing area.

The fall season is dedicated to students who are new to climbing. Students participate in and work on learning different safety systems as they come to understand the importance of safety for themselves as well as other climbers—the “brotherhood of the rope.” On the ground, students master the commands, signals, and techniques necessary for a climb, put their newfound skills to work on afternoon trips to local areas in Ventura County, and test their mettle on weekend journeys to places like Joshua Tree, Yosemite, and the Sierras.

The spring climbing season is open to students who have climbing experience. Climbers focus on learning new techniques necessary for more complex ascents, and they put their efforts into practice during local afternoon trips as well as on weekend adventures. Over the course of students’ experiences climbing, they come to understand not only the basics of teamwork necessary for a successful climb but also the importance of precise thinking critical to success in a challenging situation on boulder or rock wall.