LEARN FROM THE BEST.
EXPERT INSTRUCTION
LEARN FROM MAINE’S BEST CLIMBING INSTRUCTOR, RYAN HOWES
When you’re looking for an expert climbing instructor, you want someone who is diligent, empathetic, professional, and has trained many others. Ryan Howes of Northern Vertical exceeds these criteria, holds an MS in Experiential Education, and a BS in Adventure Education Leadership. His long list of climbing achievements over 25 years guarantees you the highest value in every instructional course.
WINTER LEAD CLIMBER PACKAGE
Ready to learn how to lead climb? The Winter Lead Climber Package is perfect our graduates of the Complete Winter Climber Course, or for anyone with commensurate experience. This three-day private experience with Ryan covers two full days of instruction and coaching on ice, rock and snow, followed by a full day taking Ryan up classic winter climbs.
By the end of this three day course, you will have the skills to tackle winter climbs of your own. Northern Vertical guests routinely say "I have learned more from Ryan in one session than ten sessions combined from other instructors". Ryan has turned hundreds of fledgling climbers into competent leaders with his attention to detail and mastery of teaching climbing.
Rates: 1:1 $2,222 | 2:1 $3,333
STEEP ICE CLIMBING
You have learned ice climbing basics and ready for a steeper challenge. Ryan teaches mindset, breathing, resting and movement techniques for negotiating steep ice, grade 4 to 5. This includes pillars and columns, curtains, overhangs, thin ice, efficient tool and crampon techniques and more. You will make huge advancements in your climbing skills! Ryan will provide a consultation about your current ice climbing ability and goals. He will recommend the best climbing venue and logistics preparation.
Rates: 1:1 $555 | 2:1 $999
STEEP MIXED CLIMBING
You have learned mixed climbing basics and ready to tackle steeper objectives. Ryan is the mixed master ready to coach you on the movement techniques, subtle art of crampon and tool craft on thin ice and rock. Your climbing skills will rapidly progress over a progression of steep mixed terrain while Ryan coaches and films you on M4-M7 routes. Ryan will consult over the phone prior to meeting so you are prepared for this Camden experience.
Rates: 1:1 $555 | 2:1 $777
STEEP DRYTOOLING
You have learned Drytooling basics and ready to tackle steeper objectives. Follow Ryan up a progression of steep climbs, while he coaches your movement, breathing, crampon and tool placements on routes that feel like 5.8 - 5.10. You will make noticeable improvements by the end of this session and Ryan films your progress for advancing your skills. Camden, Maine is hands down the best locale for this experience and Ryan developed all of the routes.
Rates: 1:1 $555 | 2:1 $777
WINTER CLIMBING PACKAGE
This incredible offer for the 2024/25 season combines all four beginner friendly winter classes, plus a FREE, personalized adventure with Ryan! We start with Introduction to Winter Climbing, Ice Climbing, Mixed Climbing, Drytooling, then it's graduation day and Ryan guides you on a full day Maine climbing adventure, for FREE!
Rates: From $2,222
LEAD INSTRUCTION - TWO DAYS
This two-day private course teaches climbing techniques for sport and traditional lead climbing on the coast of Maine. Emphasis is placed on quality placements and clipping protection on lead with the safety of a top rope (mock lead).
This course is perfect for the climber who wants to transition from gym-to-crag lead climbing, a seasoned top rope climber, a seasoned follower, and anyone who wants to brush up on past learning experiences, as the techniques and equipment change over time.
Climbing is an inherently dangerous sport. Most guide services do not offer lead climbing instruction because it involves some risk. Ryan loves helping people to transition from occassional to dedicated climbers. He’s a master at teaching the art of lead climbing in Maine. Over this two-day course, you’ll learn how to mitigate the risks associated with climbing, proper techniques, and the confidence to go on your own climbing adventures in Maine and beyond.
Rates: 1:1 $1,000 | 2:1 $1,300
SPECIAL ANNUAL EVENT, HELD IN LATE JULY
RENT-A-PRO - TWO DAYS/GROUP
Take your climbing to the next level with this specialty, two-day lead climbing course in Acadia National Park with Maine’s climbing pro - Ryan Howes.
This small group experience is focused on dialing in all the standard skills of the traditional lead climber - the big picture and the finer details. Saturday, July 27 covers these skills sets with a full day of practice and refinement, and Sunday, July 28 is the day to test your skills on a challenging traditional climb!
This incredible offering is high value literally and figuratively. Two full days with a prolific Maine first ascentionist and professional guide, for just $250. Book this upleveling experience and get a private consultation over the phone with Ryan to discuss your goals and intentions.
Whatever your climbing dreams, Ryan will get you well on your way! Don’t delay book it today!
Rate: $250
WHY CLIMB WITH RYAN?
Because you want the best climbing experience possible. Ryan has been climbing in Maine for over 25 years, has been the head guide for several climbing companies, and has a zero-accident safety record.
He’s an excellent instructor. With a master’s degree in experiential education and a bachelor’s in adventure therapy and adventure education leadership, he’s more than qualified to show you the ropes! His list of qualifications keeps going - click the button for his backstory and full credentials.
