About Partner Rescue In Climbing
In the mid-20th century, climbing was expanding, which meant climbers needed to handle their own emergencies as well. While climbing in vertical, remote environments, outside help is not always available, nor is it quick. This led to the development of partner rescue systems and the creation of skills that are designed to solve problems on the wall using the gear you have.
Today, partner rescue is a vital part of climbing safety, integrating technical rope work, making calm decisions under high pressure, and problem-solving. In our partner rescue courses, students will get hands-on experiences in real-world rescue scenarios, learning not only how to manage stuck ropes, assist an injured or stranded partner, but also how to respond effectively when things don't go as planned
We meet students where they are. Each level builds on the last.
Partner Rescue: Base Site – If you’re new to climbing rescue systems, or want to build a strong foundation, this course is a great place to start. You’ll learn essential techniques for assisting a climber from the ground, managing basic rope systems, and solving common climbing problems at the base of a route. The course focuses on safety, communication, and practical rescue skills in single-pitch climbing environments.
​
Partner Rescue: Top Site – This course builds on foundational rescue skills by focusing on scenarios that occur from the top of a climb. You’ll learn how to assist or lower a climber, manage anchors and rope systems, and solve common top-site rescue situations. The emphasis is on efficiency, clear communication, and safe problem solving in vertical environments.
​
Partner Rescue: Multi-Pitch – This course focuses on rescue techniques used in multi-pitch climbing environments where systems become more complex. Students practice managing ropes, anchors, and partners across multiple pitches while working through realistic rescue scenarios. Emphasis is placed on problem solving, communication, and decision-making in more technical terrain.
1.
2.
3.
Course Format & Time Commitment
WEOL partner rescue courses combine field-based instruction with hands-on skill development in real climbing environments. Students build practical rescue systems and problem-solving skills through guided practice, realistic scenarios, and progressive challenges.
Course length:​
-
Partner Rescue: Base Site: 3 days
-
Partner Rescue: Top Site: 3 days
-
Partner Rescue: Multi Pitch: 4 days
​
* Each course includes a required one-hour Zoom session.
​
What to expect:
-
A mix of on-campus instruction and hands-on practice at local climbing areas
-
Progressive skill development through realistic rescue scenarios
-
Practice with rope systems, anchors, and partner assistance techniques
-
Problem solving and communication in vertical environments
-
Full participation during all scheduled field sessions
​
Daily schedules, meeting locations, total instructional hours, and trip-specific details are provided with each course offering.
These courses are built around real-world experience. Instead of just discussing skills, you’ll be actively practicing and applying them in the field.
Depending on your course and experience level, you’ll work on:
-
Building and managing climbing rescue systems
-
Rope management and mechanical advantage systems
-
Anchor evaluation and problem-solving on the wall
-
Practice with assisting or lowering an injured or stuck climber
-
Communication and teamwork in vertical environments
-
Risk management and decision-making during rescue scenarios
-
Efficient movement and system management on single and multi-pitch climbs
What You’ll Learn
Course Fees & What You'll Get
Approximate Costs:
​
Partner Rescue: Base Site
CA Residents = $54.25
Non-CA Residents = $537.25

​
Partner Rescue: Top Site
CA Residents = $54.25
Non-CA Residents = $537.25
​
Partner Rescue: Multi-Pitch
CA Residents = $54.25

Non-CA Residents = $537.25

​
Additional Course Fees:
For Each Course: $79.00
​​​
When you enroll in our partner rescue courses, you’re getting more than instruction time.
​
Materials You'll Receive:​​​
-
WEOL Chapstick
-
WEOL Mini Sunscreen & Mini Hand Sanitizer
-
Rite in the Rain Notebook & Mini Pencil
-
Partner Rescue Kit
-
1x CAMP Nimbus Locking Carabiner
-
2x CAMP Orbit Locking Carabiner
-
3x CAMP Nano Non-locking Carabiner
-
1x CAMP Express Dyneema 4ft runner
-
1x CAMP PIY 2.0
-
1x 6mm Cordelette (6ft loop)
-
1x 6mm Cordellete Prusik
-
1x 7mm Cordelette (20ft loop)
-
Transportation & Logistics
To make your climbing experience smooth and stress-free, WEOL provides transportation to all climbing sites. Our vehicles allow us to safely shuttle students and gear directly to the crag, reducing congestion at trailheads and minimizing impact on the environment.
​
This means you can focus on learning and practicing rescue skills while we handle the logistics. Whether it’s a single-day Base Site course or a Multi-Pitch training session, transportation is included to keep your experience efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible.
Rock Climbers
Who it’s for
Growth Seekers
Outdoor Educators
Aspiring Guides
Weekend Adventurers
You & Your Climbing Partner
Meet Your Instructor
Name & preferred pronouns: Nate Smith (he/him)
Favorite outdoor activities: Most mountain sports - climbing (rock, alpine, ice, mountaineering), trail running, mountain biking, skiing, ski touring, etc.
Favorite outdoor piece of gear: Multi-tool......the most consistently used piece of my kit which goes on most outdoor experiences and every expedition! Two most used pieces of my multi-tool at the pliers and scissors.
Favorite outdoor meal: Cheesy pasta with vegetables and protein. My go to is a mac-n-cheese with broccoli and chicken.
Course Advisory
Students may use their personal equipment if it meets industry standard and is in good working condition; otherwise, program equipment will be provided.
Prerequisites
& Advisories
FAQ
1. Do I need prior climbing experience?
Some climbing experience is recommended, but the Base Site course is designed for those who are new to partner rescue. Top Site and Multi-Pitch courses build on existing skills.
2. What safety equipment do I need to bring?
All participants must have a helmet, harness, belay device, and climbing shoes or sturdy closed-toe shoes. WEOL provides all gear other than climbing shoes, along with some ropes and anchors for course exercises.
3. Will I be doing outdoor climbing?
Yes! These courses combine classroom instruction with hands-on field practice at local climbing areas. You’ll practice real rescue scenarios on actual rock.
4. Can I take Top Site or Multi-Pitch without completing Base Site first?
We recommend starting with Base Site unless you already have experience with climbing rescue systems. Top Site and Multi-Pitch courses assume familiarity with basic rescue techniques.
5. What will I be able to do after completing the course?
You’ll gain practical partner rescue skills, confidence in rope systems, and the ability to assist or lower a climber safely in single or multi-pitch scenarios.
Are you ready?
Partner rescue teaches more than knots and anchors, it builds confidence, problem-solving, and teamwork. Step onto the rock, tackle real rescue scenarios, and take lessons from the wall that stay with you long after the climb ends.