Multipitch Climbing Skills

Despite the grim nomenclature, the EDK is a safe and effective rappel knot. Here's why.

Uneven stances, hanging belays, anchors, roots and rocks your rope can snag on...belaying outside is full of hazards that aren't replicated in the gym. Here are some strategies to keep both the climber and belayer safe and secure.

Thinking they were using rope tugs for commands, this beginner belayer took their climber off belay minutes before the climber had finished climbing.

Basic self-rescue knowledge should be a priority of any aspiring multi-pitch climber. Knowing and practicing these skills beforehand will save you lots of headache on the wall. Being self-reliant is the responsibility of each person—you are responsible for your own safety!

If I'd hopped off the ledge or tried to weight the sling, I would've fallen a few hundred feet to the ground. I felt sick to my stomach for a couple weeks after that one.

This climber was experienced, too. Just shows that you can't be too careful when you climb.

Progress capture devices can be used to save energy and climb harder on big alpine routes.

"On arriving at the belay, I saw that my partner had tried to put the tube-style belay device in guide mode, but failed."

This versatile hitch has a myriad uses. Here's yet another one.

Use a long cordelette or sling to create a fast, safe, and easy self-equalizing quad anchor

Our savvy readers submitted these four tips from the field that can help you out of a tight spot, or just make your day at the crag or on the wall more efficient and enjoyable.

Check out Climbing Staff's author page.

Check out Alexa Flower's author page.

Check out Climbing Staff's author page.

Check out Alexa Flower's author page.

Check out Climbing Staff's author page.

Check out Climbing Staff's author page.

Learn to lower a climber while using a belay device in guide mode

Improve multi-pitch communication by adjusting belay position

Follow these tips for success on long climbs.

More fundamentals for multi-pitch awesomeness to get you to the top—and back down—safely.

Check out Julie Ellison's author page.

Check out Julie Ellison's author page.

SCARY (AND TRUE) TALES FROM A CRAG NEAR YOU

Check out Climbing Staff's author page.

Check out Climbing Staff's author page.

Carry less gear by building a solid anchor with the rope

How to descend safely with a haulbag

Check out Julie Ellison's author page.

Check out JP Whitehead's author page.

Check out Kevin Corrigan's author page.