EMS' Basic Rock Lesson is a one-day program for people who have never climbed. You will learn the fundamentals of rock climbing with other people of the same skill level - the atmosphere is usually very friendly and supportive. As EMS likes to point out, "climbing is not a matter of strength but of technique". You need only to be in good shape to participate. Instructors are all certified rock instructors and rock guides, and the Climbing School is accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association. Most of them also teach winter mountaineering classes in the same area when snow sets in after November.

Your class will start at the School in the morning, where you will meet your instructors and fellow climbers. Equipment will be distributed before the group heads for the cliffs nearby (people tend to car pool, as you will get back to the School in the evening). Once there, instruction will start for real, on the cliff! Bring snacks, food and water in your backpack since most groups eat on the go and do not stop formally for lunch.

All classes require advance reservation. To sign up for your class, call EMS Climbing School at (800) 310-4504, or visit www.emsclimb.com.

EMS' Climbing School is located in North Conway, in the heart of the New Hampshire's White Mountains. You will learn on location at the cliff, sometimes at the famous Cathedral Ledge near North Conway.

Because North Conway is more than 2 hours away from Boston, you may want to find lodging there for the night prior to your class.