Intro to Mountaineering

-Mt. Shasta & Mt. Baker, WA-

3 Day - Intro to Mountaineering Course

Our Intro to Mountaineering course is designed for those ready to take their first steps into the alpine world. This immersive program blends skill-building with adventure, providing a structured introduction to the fundamentals of mountaineering. Whether your goals are climbing classic Sierra peaks, skiing volcanoes, or preparing for bigger expeditions, this course lays the foundation every mountain traveler needs.

Participants gain hands-on instruction in the proper use of crampons and ice axe, focusing on efficient footwork and secure movement on snow. You’ll practice ascending, descending, and traversing steep slopes while learning how to evaluate terrain and make sound decisions in variable alpine conditions.

A highlight of the course is the snow camping component, where students learn how to establish and maintain a functional camp in the mountains. From building snow platforms for tents to managing gear and cooking in cold conditions, this aspect of the training reinforces the self-sufficiency that mountaineering demands.

Price: $850.00

Dates:

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Two mountain climbers standing on snow-covered peak holding a flag with firefighter insignia, mountains in background, clear blue sky.
  • Course Goals:

    1. Fundamental Skills Acquisition: Equip participants with basic mountaineering techniques, including route selection, navigation, and climbing skills.

    2. Safety Awareness: Foster a comprehensive understanding of safety protocols and risk management in alpine environments.

    3. Physical Preparation: Enhance participants' physical conditioning and endurance levels necessary for mountaineering activities.

    4. Equipment Familiarity: Develop knowledge of essential mountaineering gear and its proper usage, including harnesses, ropes, and protective equipment.

    5. Teamwork and Communication: Cultivate effective communication and teamwork skills necessary for a successful ascent in group settings.

    6. Environmental Stewardship: Promote awareness of environmental conservation and responsible outdoor practices to minimize ecological impact.

    Learning Outcomes:

    1. Technical Proficiency: Participants will demonstrate foundational mountaineering skills, including basic climbing techniques, belaying, and rappelling.

    2. Navigation Skills: Participants will be able to read maps and use compasses and GPS devices to navigate mountainous terrain effectively.

    3. Risk Management: Participants will identify potential hazards and implement strategies for managing risks associated with mountaineering.

    4. Collaboration: Participants will demonstrate the ability to work cohesively within a group, effectively communicating and supporting one another throughout climbs.

    5. Environmental Responsibility: Participants will articulate the importance of Leave No Trace principles and demonstrate environmentally friendly practices in the field.

    Note: This introductory course will provide a strong foundation for future mountaineering pursuits, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to embark on more advanced climbing experiences safely and confidently.

  • Day 1:

    Morning: Arrival and Orientation

    Afternoon: Mountaineering Skills

    Day 2:

    Morning: Practical Skills

    Afternoon: Continue Practical Skills

    Day 3:

    Morning: Summit Bid

    Afternoon: Hike Out

    Note: Participants should be aware that the itinerary is subject to change due to the inherent complications of weather, time and the ever changing mountain environment.

    *Itinerary subject to change depending on conditions and group dynamics.

    • Endurance: Mountaineering involves long ascents over varied terrain. A good cardiovascular base is crucial.

    • Strength: A focus on leg strength, core stability, and overall muscle conditioning will help you navigate uneven slopes with the weight of a mountaineering pack on.

    • Fitness Level: Participants should have a solid fitness foundation and prior hiking experience in mountainous terrain.

    • Team work & Communication Skills: Joining a guided trip is an excellent way to gain the necessary communication skills so you are held accountable for pulling your own weight by contributing to the teams decision making.

      Note: By ensuring you meet these prerequisites, you can contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself and others.

  • Included:

    • Friendly AMGA trained guides.

    • Applicable recreation and/or forest service permits.

    • Group rescue gear, first aid, rescue sled, GPS/Satellite phone.

    • Waste Disposal Bags in compliance with “Leave No Trace” principles.

    • 4 season tents

    • Ropes

    • Stoves

    • Fuel

    • Pots & pans

    • Water storage & treatment

    Not Included:

    • Avalanche equipment, mountaineering boots, ice axe, crampons,helmets, harness, carabiners.

    • Food/Snacks/Meals

    • Transportation

    • Guide Gratuities

Group of hikers climbing a rocky mountain trail above snow-covered terrain with mountainous landscape in the background.

Intro to Mountaineering Curriculum

Day 1

  • Meet the team, introductions, review course goals and safety protocols

  • Full gear check & group gear allocation

  • Instruction on efficient packing and load management for overnight travel

  • Hike in to basecamp (moderate approach, 1.5 –3 hours depending on location)

  • Camp setup: Camp construction, tent platforms, kitchen area, gear organization, waste disposal, etc.

  • Intro to Leave No Trace principles and camp management in alpine terrain

  • Group dinner

Group of climbers resting on rocky terrain in a snowy mountain landscape, some sitting and some standing, with snow-capped mountains in the background.

Day 3

  • Early alpine start from camp & a simple breakfast

  • Summit & high point

  • Apply uphill movement skills with crampons and ice axe.

  • Rope team travel

  • Controlled descent: plunge-step, crampon technique, glissading with axe brake

  • Breakdown of camp

  • Hike back to trailhead

  • Course conclusion around 4:00pm

Group of climbers in snow, ascending a mountain with snow boots, poles, and backpacks

Day 2

  • Crampon fitting and adjustment

  • Snow travel: Mountaineers step, french technique, front pointing, plunge-stepping, rest step, pressure breathing etc.

  • Ice axe use: carries, self-belay, self-arrest practice

  • Knots & hitches: figure-8, clove hitch, overhand, prusik

  • Intro to rope travel: team spacing, communication, terrain assessment

  • Build simple snow anchors (picket, buried axe, deadman) near camp

  • Group dinner, stove circle Q&A, review of skills learned