PATC Mountaineering
PATC Mountaineering has been the premier rock climbing, ice climbing and mountaineering club serving the D.C. Metro area since 1937. We are a diverse group of local climbers who share a common interest in promoting environmentally responsible climbing and having fun while doing it!
What We Do
CLIMB! Whether local or further afield, almost every weekend our members are out climbing. Each year, several expedition-minded people organize longer trips.
INFORM! We publish a newsletter, the UPROPE, that details recent club events, articles, book reviews and the latest and greatest climbing-related news of interest submitted by the membership. Members have access to all historical editions of UpRope. Guests are welcome to download and view the latest edition here: Link to Latest UpRope!
MENTOR! Many of our members have decades of climbing experience and serve as mentors to those who want to learn the basics as well as more advanced skills. We are NOT a climbing school or guide service.
LEARN! We sponsor lectures by climbers. Guest lecturers have included: Hans Florine, Jules Lines, Rosie Andrews, Fred Beckley, Greg Collins, John Harlin, Lynn Hill, Jeff Lowe, Paul Piana, Marc Richey, Doug Scott, Mark Wilford, and Jimmy Chin.
SHARE! We manage a forum where members can communicate and post impromptu climbing trips and discuss climbing issues.
MEET! We gather for a monthly meeting to discuss club business, socialize, and learn from guest lecturers.
SUPPORT! We have grant programs available for members to apply to each year. Programs include the Expedition Grant (max $500), Single-Pitch Instructor (SPI) Test Reimbursement Grant ($400), Women’s Leadership Grant ($600) and the Wilderness First Responder Reimbursement Grant ($400). Details about these grants can be found under the Members Benefits Section