Virginia and Maryland REI Outdoor School

Introduction to Outdoor Rock Climbing (Outing)

Come learn the basics of vertical climbing in a natural setting. We’ll focus on building solid fundamental skills such as belaying, technique and fun. If you’ve only climbed inside or you are looking to explore climbing for the first time, this is your opportunity to practice with professional rock climbing instructors. We provide harnesses, helmets and all the necessary gear for you to try out this fun and challenging sport! Recommended for those 14 and older, under 18 must be accompanied by parent or responsible adult.

* Advance registration is required. Call or visit any DC area REI to sign up.

  • Time:

    9:00 am - 4:30 pm

  • Cost: Member: $75, Non-Member: $95

Where To Meet:

Meet at the location or REI store listed below. If the program meets at a location other than a REI store, a member of the Outdoor School staff will contact you to coordinate directions.

  • May 10th Rockville REI
  • May 18th College Park REI
  • June 1st Timonium REI
  • June 7th Fairfax REI
  • June 15th Baileys Crossroads REI
  • June 28th Rockville REI
  • July 5th Fairfax REI
  • July 20th College Park REI
  • July 27th Rockville REI
  • August 3rd Fairfax REI
  • August 10th Rockville REI
  • August 23rd Baileys Crossroads REI
  • August 30th College Park REI
  • September 6th Fairfax REI
  • September 14th Baileys Crossroads REI
  • September 21st Timonium REI
  • September 27th Rockville REI

WHAT TO BRING:

  • Quick-dry shirt and hiking pants. If the forecast is for cool temperatures, bring along a fleece jacket or windproof shell too.
  • Water-resistant or waterproof jacket/anorak in case of rain
  • Sturdy trail shoes or hiking boots, with moisture-wicking socks.
  • Your personal climbing shoes (if you have them.
  • A water bottle, such as a bicycle style or Nalgene, filled with drinking water, juice, etc.
  • Sun protection (sunscreen and wide brim hats w/ retainers) and sunglasses with retainers.
  • Bag lunch and snacks.
  • Your daypack.
  • Lightweight camp chair or insulate pad for sitting on (optional, but nice to have)

REI OUTDOOR SCHOOL PROVIDES:

  • All instruction and climbing equipment including harness, helmet, belay equipment, climbing shoes and all other climbing supplies.
  • Transportation between REI and trailhead, except when outing meets at venue.
  • All park entry fees for riders in the REI Outdoor School van.
  • Group medical supplies and area maps.

REI Outdoor School Cancellation Policy

To be courteous to all customers, we request you notify REI Outdoor School at least 48 hours prior to the trip if you intend to cancel; late cancellations will not be refunded. Class or Outing cancellations on the part of REI Outdoor School will be refunded in full, regardless of timeframe. Inclement weather does not necessarily cancel an event; REI Outdoor School will contact you in the event of a cancellation.

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

REI Outdoor School strives to provide the best outdoor education programs possible. Our 100% satisfaction guarantee ensures that our classes and outings at REI Outdoor School meet your high standards - or we will gladly offer your choice of a refund or a chance to re-take the class/outing.

Waitlists

In order to keep our instruction personable, space on our classes and outings is limited. If you are interested in an activity that has filled, we would be happy to place you on a waitlist for that event. If space opens, we will contact the list in the order you signed up, but we are unable to hold that spot if we're unable to speak with you directly. Providing us with your best contact information increases your chances of joining us.

Availability

Classes and outings are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. Should a program be cancelled or a rescheduled, all registered participants will be notified.

  • Shopping Cart 
  • Log In or Register | 
  • Store Locator | 
  • 1-800-426-4840