What Is AMP?

AMP is a 36 hour instructional rock climbing and mountaineering technique course sponsored by the Angeles Chapter of the Sierra Club. It is taught by AMGA SPI certified instructors Dan Richter & Pat McKusky along with an ever growing roster of trained volunteers.

The course consists of four classes and is taught twice a year in Spring and Fall.


The first class is held on a Wednesday night at a location up in Pasadena. Introductions are made and basic gear and safety systems are covered before we divide up and practice knots and belay posture.



The second class is held in Chatsworth at Stoney Point. You'll spend the day climbing and learning to belay using various techniques including using a harness and device, body belays, and anchored munter belays. In addition we'll cover how to set up a telepherique, fixed lines, and other techniques for moving a group quickly and safely past obstacles.


The third class is also at Stoney Point but the major focus will be rappelling. This will include using a basic belay rappel device, extending the rappel, munter rappels, techniques for getting over an overhang , and the classic dulfersitz rappel.

Every student will have multiple opportunities to rappel in a safe environment working one on one with an instructor.



Finally class 4 is two days out at Indian Cove in Joshua Tree National Park. You'll spend two days out on the rocks (your course fee includes campsites) with a heavy emphasis on climbing both top roped and in lead / follow configuration, types and placement of protection, and hands on experience building anchors.

Students who complete all four classes will receive a collectible certificate.