Learn the ABCs of Climbing

A great way for new climbers to get certified and familiar with the basics of this exciting sport! This course teaches basic rope and belaying skills, as well as basic movement techniques. This three week course includes 6 hours of instruction (2 hour sessions 1xwk), gear rental, and the certification fee.

This course is for certified climbers who are comfortable climbing 5.9 who want to break into sport climbing. The focus of this class is to get climbers certified to lead at the Chicago Athletic Clubs, which includes lead climbing, lead belaying, and cleaning sport anchors. 2-week session with 6 hours of instruction.

Kids 1 Class

Evanston & Lakeview

This is our introductory course for kids new to climbing. Emphasis will be on movement and climbing technique as well as maximizing climbing time. The instructors will strive to make the climbers feel comfortable being on the wall, high off the ground. Climbing knots and belay instruction will be included based on a climber's maturity and skill level.

Kids 2 Class*

Evanston & Lakeview

Kids II Class is for students who are ready to take their climbing to the next level. Students will have more time to climb, and instructors will increase the intensity of the climbing by challenging the climbers to build their skills, strength, and climbing technique. Climbers should know how to tie their knots, load and belay with a grigri, conduct safety checks, and climb the big wall with confidence before registering for Kids 2 Class.

*Kids 1 instructor recommendation is needed for participation in Kids 2 Class.

Youth 1 Class

Evanston & Lakeview

The Youth 1 Class is the perfect starting point for kids ages 10-15, with limited climbing experience. In this 4-week introductory class, instructors will emphasize safety protocols as climbers learn how to tie-in and belay. . Sequencing routes, climbing movement, and climbing technique will be taught in conjunction with responsible climbing procedures. Upon completion of the Youth I Class, students can continue their climbing as part of the Youth 2 Class.

Youth 2 Class*

Evanston & Lakeview

The Youth 2 Class provides a great environment for experienced climbers ages 10-15 years old. This 90-minutes class focuses on the strength and technique in both the bouldering cave and top rope climbing areas. Climbers who progress in Youth 2 can try out for one of our competitive Climbing Teams, with instructor recommendation.

*Kids 2 or Youth 1 instructor recommendation is needed for participation in Youth 2 Class.

CAC Youth Climbing Teams

Evanston & Lakeview 

The Expansion and Advanced Teams are for highly motivated climbers interested in competing through USA Climbing. Practices include workouts targeting overall fitness and strength, as well as climbing exercises and drills to advance each team member’s technique and resilience. Participation on Team best prepares climbers for competitions and outdoor climbing. Coaches will attend field trips and all local competitions to advise, instruct, and support their CAC climbers. Those interested in the CAC Climbing Team must attend try outs in the late summer (bouldering season) and winter (sport and speed season).