Activites

Rock Climbing

The Eastern Mountain Sports Climbing School is the oldest climbing school in the East, and has been offering technical rock climbing instruction outdoors since 1968. The School is fully accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and all of our climbing instructors are AMGA-Certified as Single Pitch Instructors, or higher. EMS Climbing Guides have technical knowledge and experience to deliver the most up-to-date instruction, but they never forget that your satisfaction and enjoyment come first. As much as they love repeat customers, their true measure of success is when they encounter former students enjoying the crags on their own.

Ice Climbing

As one of New England’s oldest climbing school we offer adventure programs built for everyone.

We believe that Winter Hiking and Ice Climbing should be accessible to anyone. That’s why our Intro to Ice Climbing, Winter Climbing 101, and Winter Hiking programs come with all the technical gear you need. Whether you are a first time climber or a seasoned veteran we can tailor a program to your needs and get you out in the mountains enjoying the winter season to its fullest.

Mountaineering



We specialize in more advanced mountain skills and rope work. Though the mountains are not very tall here on the East coast, Mt. Washington is still home to some of the world’s worst weather and provides an excellent training ground for those of you looking to head out West or abroad. Our guides are some of the most experienced and well trained in the Northeast and can show you the tips and tricks for traversing any terrain confidently.

Certifications

Get more out of the AIARE curriculum and practice the skills you need to make a plan, travel safely, and have a great day in the backcountry. We focus on getting the class on snow every day of the course, and believe that the best way to learn to travel in avalanche terrain is to practice in avalanche terrain.

Backcountry Skiing

The Mt. Washington valley has access to backcountry skiing terrain for every skill level. Our backcountry ski courses focus on equipment and clothing needed for a day in the backcountry, understanding the weather, uphill travel techniques, and hazard awareness. If you are looking for an introduction to backcountry skiing, or want to combine your existing backcountry ski and technical mountaineering skills into a day of ski mountaineering; we have the experienced guides to help you reach your goals.

Kayaking

Our paddle instruction programs range from introductory kayak and SUP lessons to multi-day ocean kayaking courses. Our most popular programs are the full-day Kayak Strokes and Rescues class and our Intro to Stand Up Paddleboard class. These programs are great for paddlers who have not taken any formal kayak/SUP instruction and are looking for coaching from ACA certified paddle instructors. Classes are kept small, usually between three and six participants, and instruction is very hands on.

Paddleboarding

The sport of Stand Up Paddleboarding (aka SUP) has taken the northeast by storm and it’s here to stay. We have been enjoying the sport and perfecting our teaching skills to deliver superior service. We purchased our first board in 2010 and have expanded our programs to include lessons and tours. All of our paddleboarding instructors are certified through the American Canoe Association (ACA) and are first aid and CPR certified. When they are not teaching, you will most likely find them out surfing the waves in Newport or on a long fitness paddle off Wickford Harbor in Narragansett Bay.

Private Experiences

If you’ve never went out on an excursion and don't want the large crowds, this experience is for you. The Private experience will teach you the fundamentals with a focus on giving you the knowledge to become a skilled and confident on whatever excursion you are passionate about.