u of oregon - pe & recreation - outdoor pursuits program
climbing & mountaineering courses
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First class attendance is REQUIRED! Please read our enrollment and first day attendance policies. opp courses

Climbing Topics and Resources

anchors belaying & spotting belay escape - pdf belay escape - video bouldering
crack climbing floor anchors footwork forces in leader falls gear guide
handholds knots for climbing preventing injuries movement principles signals/commands
stretching training for climbing      

PEOL 199 - Bouldering

This course emphasizes climbing movement, bouldering techniques, protocols and safety.climber on indoor rock wall

PEOL 251 - Rock Climbing 1

This course focuses on safety skills (e.g. belaying, equipment use, knots) and learning the basics of climbing and rappelling.

PEOL 252 - Rock Climbing 2a climber ascends a route at Smith Rock State Park

The focus of this intermediate course is on improving fitness and developing climbing technique. Please read our skill requirements and participation policies before enrolling!
PEOL 331 - Rock Climbing 3
This 2-credit course introduces you to outdoor rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park, with emphasis on gear placement and anchor building. Introductory rescue techniques (e.g. belay escapes, ascending a fixed rope) are introduced at our indoor rescue facility on campus.

PEOL 341 - Introduction to Lead Climbing

Conducted at Skinner's Butte columns, this course covers the basics of traditional lead climbing techniques with emphasis on gear placement and anchor management.

PEOL 399 - Sport Climbing

This course emphasizes leading bolted routes and is conducted at our indoor climbing wall. Requires Rock Climbing 3 or equivalent experience and Instructor consent.

course description and schedule
readings and resources
belay station on a snow slope

PEOL 288/361 - Mountaineering Preparation and Outing

Mountaineering Preparation and Outing courses are conducted in spring term andrequire instructor consent to register. Wilderness Survival and Backpacking 1 or equivalent experience are also required.
course details, assignments, outing equipment
readings and lectures

PEOL 363 - Ice Climbing

Ice Climbing is conducted in fall term when the crevasses of Diller Glacierin theThree SistersWilderness area are free of snow. Instructor consent, Wilderness Survival and Backpacking 1 or equivalent are required. Enrollment priority is given to students active in the Outdoor Pursuits Leadership Program.
course documents

OPP - credit for adventure