CONTACT US  |   JOIN  |   AMC  |   AMC ADVENTURES   

Mountaineering Committee

Our Mountaineering Committee organizes rock climbing (sport, traditional, and multi-pitch), plus the occasional ice climbing, indoor wall climbing, or backcountry skiing trip. Our volunteers run trips all year. Some are day trips or after-work evening trips to local climbs, others are multi-day trips to more distant venues.

The best climber is the one who is having the most fun. - Alex Lowe

The best climber is the one who is having the most fun. - Alex Lowe

We are committed to increasing the accessibility of the climbing world. If you're in doubt about your qualifications for a particular trip or what equipment you might need, ask the listed trip leader. Our committee is able to provide much of the equipment necessary.
We look forward to climbing with you!

Climbing at AMC

Chris Neil, Committee Chair
Rock and ice climbing are exhilarating activities that push individuals to their physical and mental limits. AMC has been a pioneer in teaching people the skills necessary to safely enjoy these challenging pursuits. Through a combination of expert guidance, experiential learning, and a deep respect for nature, AMC has cultivated a community of climbers who not only conquer mountains but also develop a profound connection to the natural world.

Upcoming Activities

Click or tap on the Register links to learn more and/or register for activities.

[Women's+] Crag Day!

Location: Ashfield, MA
Date: 18‑Jul‑2026
Register »
Join the AMC Western MA Chapter for a Women's+ Crag Day at Chapel Ledge in beautiful Ashfield, MA. This will be a top rope climbing activity, and several routes ranging from 5.5 to 5.10- will be set up prior to participant arrival. We expect to climb in pairs, take breaks as needed, and connect with other adventurous, like-minded climbers. Whether you're looking to build skills, make new friends, or simply enjoy a day outside, this is a great opportunity to experience some of the best climbing Western MA has to offer.
Knowledge of how to safely put on/wear a helmet/harness, how to tie-in using a Figure 8 knot, how to top rope belay, and how to do a "buddy check" are required for this event. The approach to the crag is short, but please be prepared to hike on an incline on some uneven terrain.
This activity is appropriate for climbers who are new to outdoor climbing, but who have the skills above. There is a max of 8 participants, so apply early! Once you register, you will be contacted by a climbing leader to discuss additional details and confirm your participation. Car pooling is encouraged. A week prior to the trip, confirmed participants will receive detailed trip info and updates.
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

[Women's+] Crag Day #2

Location: Erving, MA
Date: 19‑Jul‑2026
Register »
The Women's Affinity Top Rope Climbing Trip is a carefully curated program intended to cultivate an inclusive and empowering environment for women+ climbers of all levels of experience. Whether participants are beginners or seasoned climbers seeking to enhance their abilities, this trip provides an ideal setting to engage with like-minded individuals, pursue personal growth, and enjoy a positive, motivational atmosphere.
Equipment required: harness, helmet, belay device (loaner equipment is available). Technical skills: familiarity with tying into a rope and belaying.
Refer to the registration page for more information.
Affinity activities are designed for a specific audience, but everyone is welcome. If you do not identify with the specified group, we trust that you have reviewed our allyship criteria, have done your due diligence to educate yourself, and have committed to abide by our Code of Conduct. If you have questions, please contact the trip leader(s) by emailing them for more information.

Basic Self Rescue: Schistmas in July

Location: Rumney, NH
Date: 25‑Jul‑2026 ➢ 26‑Jul‑2026
Register »
This two-day course is designed for trad and sport climbers who want to build practical self-rescue skills for real problems that can arise on a climb. Through hands-on instruction and practice, participants will work on ascending a rope, escaping the belay, improvised rappelling methods, and other techniques that can help a leader or second respond effectively when plans go wrong. The course will also cover gear removal, and rope management.
This is not a beginner course. Participants must already be able to demonstrate proper belaying technique, and prior approval from the leader is required. A minimum of four participants is needed to run the course, with a small maximum group size to support close coaching and practice.

Intermediate Rock Climbing Class: Weekend 2 of 2

Location: New Paltz, NY
Date: 08‑Aug‑2026 ➢ 09‑Aug‑2026
Register »
This is the second weekend of our Intermediate Rock Climbing Course. Weekend 2 will put the skills from the first session into practice on multi-pitch climbs in the Gunks. Participants will reinforce the core systems of seconding a leader, including belaying, following and cleaning gear, anchor transfers, belay station management, rope handling, rappelling, and efficient movement as a team on longer routes.
This weekend is intended to help climbers turn the concepts from Weekend 1 into solid field habits through supervised practice on real climbs.

Activity Schedule

All activities are subject to cancellation due to poor weather conditions. Check activities on outdoors.org for up-to-the-minute additions not yet shown here. Not all activities may be posted yet.
Back to top