Spring After‑School Climbing Program in Camden, Maine
Locally Guided. Community Rooted. Boutique Experience.
Why Choose Equinox — A Boutique, Local Experience
Unlike large out‑of‑state programs, Equinox Guiding Service is a locally owned and operated AMGA‑accredited guide service rooted in the Midcoast community. Every registration supports local guides, youth scholarships, and responsible outdoor access in Maine.
Location: Camden Hills & Midcoast Maine
Season: April–June (8–10 weeks)
Schedule: Two after‑school sessions per week + June Overnight Adventure
Ages: 7–17 (grouped by experience)
Ratio: 1:4–1:5 guide to climber
Accreditation: AMGA‑accredited, led by certified Maine‑based guides
What Sets Us Apart
Local Guides, Local Knowledge: Our instructors live and climb here year‑round — they know Camden Hills like home.
Boutique Size, Big Impact: Small groups ensure individualized coaching, mentorship, and personal growth.
Community Connection: Every dollar supports Maine jobs, local stewardship, and accessible youth programming.
Professional Standards: AMGA‑accredited, WFR/WEMT‑certified, and insured to national standards.
“Move well, be kind, and take care of one another.” — Our guiding philosophy
Program Overview
The Spring After‑School Climbing Program offers progressive instruction designed to build real climbing skills, confidence, and self‑reliance — culminating in a celebratory overnight adventure in June.
Two afternoons per week after school (Tue/Thu)
Small cohort format for hands‑on learning and mentorship
Capstone Overnight in June with camping, shared meals, and climbing
Family Showcase at the end of the program
Pick‑up/Drop‑off: Equinox Office (20 Mechanic St, Camden) or trailhead as communicated weekly.
Curriculum & Weekly Progression
Weeks 1–3: Foundations
Movement, knots, belay systems, safety checks, communication, and trust.
Weeks 4–6: Progression
Anchor building, rappelling, mock leading, and terrain awareness.
Weeks 7–8: Integration
Belay escapes, self‑rescue, leadership, and problem‑solving scenarios.
Week 9: Overnight Adventure (June)
A weekend of camping, climbing, reflection, and community celebration in Camden Hills.
Skills & Learning Outcomes
Climbing movement and efficient body mechanics
Belay mastery with assisted‑braking devices
Anchor fundamentals (SERENE principles)
Rappelling and lowering systems
Self‑rescue and belay takeover skills
Leadership, focus, and mindful risk management
Safety & Accreditation
AMGA‑Accredited guiding operation
Certified Instructors: SPI, CWI, Assistant Rock Guide, WFR/WEMT
Documented risk management plan & SOPs
Low ratios for high safety and engagement
Weather‑responsive programming with indoor alternatives
Guides
Led by Noah Kleiner (AMGA Multi‑Pitch Instructor, CWI Provider) and supported by certified local guides including Elias Libby, Gavin Spilling, and Nick — all active members of Maine’s guiding community dedicated to youth mentorship and instruction.
Boutique Pricing & Value
This is not a large‑scale camp. It’s a boutique program built for quality, connection, and personal growth — guided by Maine’s most qualified instructors.
Full Spring Series (2 days/week + Overnight): $895 per climber
Single Cohort (1 day/week + Overnight): $595
Returning Student Overnight Only: $295
Sibling Discount: 10% off additional siblings
All gear provided: climbing shoes, harnesses, helmets. Need‑based scholarships available.
What’s Included
Professional instruction from certified guides
All climbing gear & technical equipment
Overnight camping fees + group meals
Weekly parent updates and skill summaries
End‑of‑program skill progress report
June Overnight Details
Location: Camden Hills Region
Meals: Friday dinner & Saturday breakfast provided
Evening Activities: anchor demos, campfire reflection, and leadership circles
Parent Pickup: Saturday afternoon (~4:30 PM)
Register Now — Spots Are Limited
Enrollment is capped for a low guide‑to‑climber ratio.
Secure your place early — spring sessions fill quickly.