Will I actually get to lead on gear?

That is our goal. It is dependent on our comfort with your uptake of the skills presented as well as your ability to move on the rock. Often people are learning to lead on climbs that are lower angled and ledgy. This presents risk management concerns for the guide who may insist on you placing a lot of gear or doing more ground school practice but almost always we have guests lead a few climbs by the end of the day.

Do I need to have a certain rack of protection or any at all to do this class?

Our courses always include the basic equipment to participate. While you will benefit by having some of your own equipment it's not absolutely necessary. You may learn some things you like by using the guides equipment as well as ask them some questions that help you make decisions before you purchase your own.

My friend said trad leading is more dangerous, is that true?

A good piece of pro placed in quality rock is not significantly different than a bolt. The difficulty is knowing how to assess those two things. Climbing is inherently risky but helping participants develop the eye for good gear and good rock is a big part of the trad leading course so participants know when how much risk they are taking.

How long does it really take to learn to lead?

It is entirely dependent on your previous experience and how well you pick up skills. If you've only toproped and never done any leading or significant anchor building we highly recommend a Full Day to complete our curriculum and maybe a second day just leading with some feedback. If you have a lot of previous sport leading experience or have followed trad leads and really just want the confidence of someone giving you some feedback then a Half Day is possibly long enough to meet those goals.