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Introductory ice climbing 3-day course in Canadian Rockies

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Join local IFMGA-certified guide, David, on this Introductory ice climbing course in the Canadian Rockies! Go on a 2 or 3-day program to learn these skills in a unique and safe environment. Beginners and Intermediate climbers welcome!

Rockies

2 Days

Nov

High

Beginner


Description

Are you ready to discover the exciting adventure of climbing frozen waterfalls? Join me on this Introductory ice climbing course in the beautiful Canadian Rockies. This program is available as either a 2-day or a 3-day course.

The central goal of this Introductory Course is to help you gain the skills and confidence by teaching you modern ice climbing techniques. We will work on both vertical ice and on mixed terrain.

Other skills you will learn are:

  • Basic movement skills and safety

  • Belaying

  • Rope management

The 3rd optional day will take place on a classic multi-pitch ice route. This will be a great way to practice your ice climbing skills.

Have a look at a more detailed estimated itinerary below.

You don't need any prior ice climbing experience to join this program. Of course, previous either indoor or outdoor rock climbing can be beneficial. You will be matched with other climbers with a similar experience, based on your self-evaluated skills.

The exact location of the course will be determined based on the weather conditions and the experience of the group. Some of the possible locations within the Kootenay regions of South Eastern British Columbia are those close to:

  • Nelson

  • Cranbrook

  • Invemere

  • Golden

  • Lake Louise

  • and Banff & Canmore

All of the towns above offer good accommodation options.

I will meet you the evening before the course to check your gear. Also, all the technical climbing equipment, as well as the group safety equipment, is included.

Are you interested in this Introductory ice climbing 3-day course in Canadian Rockies? Request your booking! Have a look at other courses in this area, like this Avalanche Rescue Course, Nelson, British Columbia, and these Winter mountaineering courses in Canada.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome - Introduction to basic skills

  • Meeting at 8am at the climbing site (to be agreed)

  • Welcome

  • introduction, goals and itinerary

  • Walk to the climbing site

  • Introduction to basic ice climbing crag safety

  • Knots and harnesses, crampons and gear check

  • Crampon school – the “French technique”

  • Safety procedures – review of basic belaying methods & belay calls

  • Ice “bouldering”, use of crampons in a safe environment

  • Top roped ice climbing

  • Debrief and wrap-up by 4pm

Day 2: Further skills

  • Meeting at 8am at the climbing site (to be agreed)

  • Bouldering warm up

  • Introduction to steep ice climbing techniques

  • Lots of climbing with coaching on steeper ice! Use of modern ice tools, and proper body positioning

  • Introduction to ice screws and other protection methods

  • “Seconding” practice: removing gear placed by the “lead” climber

  • Debrief and wrap-up by 4pm

Day 3: Multi-pitch ice climbing (optional)

  • Early start at multi-pitch venue

  • Climb a classic Rockies multi-pitch frozen waterfall, with personalized coaching

  • Debrief and wrap-up by 4pm

 

Details

More info

Note that the guide ratio for the optional 3rd day (multi-pitch climbing day) is of 2 climbers per guide.

Meeting point

At the designated climbing location, close to any of these towns: Nelson, Cranbrook, Invemere, Golden, Lake Louise and Banff & Canmore.

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