Efficiently climbing moderate snow and ice terrain along with lightweight and low impact winter camping skills is the focus of this popular 3-day course. The course is a basic but comprehensive introduction to winter mountaineering. No previous climbing experience is required but participants should realize that this course is physically demanding.
The course provides a foundation for anyone seeking to become a responsible and self-sufficient winter mountaineer. It also provides a solid first step for people interested in climbing the greater mountain ranges of the world.
The course outline is flexible and dependent upon the weather and abilities of the participants. Components of instruction include use of crampons, use of the ice ax, glissading, self-arrest, ice climbing, snow climbing, snow & ice anchors, avalanche awareness, and an ascent of Mt. Washington.
