Home | Rock Climbing Courses | Self-Rescue
When things don’t go as planned, will you know what to do?
Our Self Rescue Course is designed to teach climbers the essential skills to manage emergencies, partner issues, and unexpected scenarios while climbing outdoors — especially when help isn’t immediately available. From stuck ropes to injured partners, this course gives you hands-on experience with real solutions, clear systems, and the mindset to stay calm under pressure.
What You’ll Learn
Self-rescue isn’t about heroics — it’s about readiness. You’ll learn practical systems for handling common problems encountered on single-pitch and basic multi-pitch climbs, with a focus on efficiency, clarity, and safety.
Taught on the sandstone cliffs of Santa Barbara, this course blends technical instruction with practical scenarios in a safe, controlled environment.
Course Details
Location: Rescue-friendly crags in Santa Barbara
Duration: 6–7 hours
Cost: Solo Guest- $360/day, Groups of 2+ $250/day per guest
Group Size: 1–3 climbers per guide
Included: All technical gear provided
What to Bring: Harness, helmet, personal belay/rappel device, gloves (optional), climbing shoes, food, water, any personal rescue gear
Who This Course Is For
Best suited for:
- Intermediate climbers who want to be prepared, not dependent
- Trad and multi-pitch climbers venturing into remote areas
- Leaders or mentors responsible for less experienced partners
- Climbing trip planners looking to increase self-reliance
- Santa Barbara locals building a deeper safety foundation
Not required: AMGA experience, pro-level skills, or a background in first aid. This course starts with the basics and builds up.
Topics include:
- Escaping a loaded belay
- Counterbalance rappels and tandem rappels
- Improvised hauling systems (3:1, 5:1)
- Rope ascension with minimal gear
- Managing an injured or stuck partner
- Lowering techniques and backups
- Improvised anchors and knots for rescue
- Prioritizing communication and decision-making in stressful situations
You'll run through guided rescue scenarios and gain the confidence to take action — not freeze — when the unexpected happens.
Is This Course Right for You?
If you’ve ever asked, “What would I do if something went wrong?” — this course will give you real answers. It's especially useful if:
- You climb with partners who rely on you
- You plan to climb outside cell service
- You've had a sketchy moment you don’t want to repeat
- You want a more responsible approach to leading, mentoring, or solo adventuring
Why Self Rescue Matters
Climbing partners can get hurt. Ropes will get stuck. Plans go sideways. And in many areas — even around Santa Barbara — help can be hours away.
This course empowers you to take care of yourself and your partner with calm, system-based responses. It’s not about fear — it’s about freedom. Knowing you have options is the fastest way to climb with confidence.
Come Climbing with Santa Barbara’s most experienced and professionally certified climbing guide service.
Our lead instructors are AMGA-trained or certified and deeply familiar with the local sandstone crags. We’ve taught hundreds of climbers how to transition into safe, confident leaders — and we love doing it.
We also pride ourselves on tailoring each outing to your personal goals and comfort level, whether you’re a first-time leader or looking to fine-tune your technique.
Why Learn With Us
At Santa Barbara Rock Climbing, we believe every climber should know basic self-rescue. Our AMGA-certified instructors have real-world rescue experience and teach with clarity, patience, and a problem-solving mindset.
We don’t just demonstrate systems — we help you understand when, why, and how to use them, so you’re not just memorizing steps, but gaining adaptable skill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this an advanced course?
A: Not necessarily. It’s designed to be accessible to anyone who climbs outdoors and wants to build real safety skills.
Q: Will we climb during this course?
A: Yes — most scenarios will take place on real rock. You’ll simulate rescues and test systems on the wall.
Q: Do I need to bring special gear?
A: We provide everything you’ll need, though you’re encouraged to bring your own belay device, carabiners, or other tools you normally use.
Q: Can I take this course as a newer climber?
A: Absolutely. It’s ideal to learn these systems before you need them.
Climb smarter. Handle the unexpected.
Book your Self Rescue Course today and give yourself the knowledge to stay calm, take action, and care for your partner when it matters most.