Top rope, or TR, is the most common and lowest-risk form of climbing. In a traditional slingshot belay, both climbers start on the ground, and the climbing rope runs through an anchor at the top of the climb, with one end attached to the climber, and the other attached to a belay device, which is attached to the belayer.
As the climber climbs up the route, the belayer pulls slack through their belay device, which is a device that adds friction to the rope so that the rope can easily be controlled by the belayer if the climber falls. After the climber gets to the top, the belayer lowers the climber to the ground by allowing rope to run back through their belay device in a controlled fashion.
What you'll need
- Climbing Rope
- Climbing Helmet
- Climbing Harness
- Climbing Shoes
- Belay Device
- Anchor Material (4 locking carabiners, and a double length sling or cordelette at a minimum)
Keep track with this checklist!
Getting started
A toprope anchor is a redundant attachment point at the top of the climb for the rope to run through. Typically the anchor is connected to two bolts at the top of most climbs, although on others traditional or natural protection are used. The anchor can be set up by walking to the top of the climb (if possible), or by someone first lead climbing the route.
Etiquette
- If another party reaches the climb first, let them climb first. Look for another route or ask when they will be finished.
- Please don't play music at the crag as that could disturb others.
- Please don't put up many ropes at a crag that you are not actively using that would prevent other climbers from climbing. And if you have a big group, it is polite to not monopolize a single route for an extended period of time.
- Keep your gear tidy, and leave no trace. Bring a small trash bag with you and pack out any extra trash you see.
- Have fun, and be safe!
Hazards
Climbing is inherently dangerous and proper techniques are required to mitigate the hazards. The biggest hazards when top roping are a result of:
- Poor or incorrectly setup and/or executed climbing systems (e.g. anchors, belay setup, tie-in knots, technique).
- Miscommunication between the belayer and climber
- Miscommunication with nearby climbers
- Falling hazards - from other climbing parties, natural rockfall, or other recreationists. Always keep an eye on your surroundings.
For more discussion of hazards please see risk mitigation.
Note: It's important to practice these skills in a course context with a qualified mountain guide. This app has advice reflecting the opinions of it's authors and has no warranty. Climbing safely is your responsibility.