Beginner Mountaineering Course in the Canadian Rockies

About this experience

The Snow and Ice Long Weekend is an ideal introductory mountaineering course for those new to mountain climbing and eager to explore the thrilling world of general mountaineering and alpine adventure. Over a three-day immersive experience in the stunning Columbia Icefields, you’ll gain hands-on skills in ice and snow climbing, and glacier travel. This course also covers essential crevasse rescue techniques and provides practical knowledge on mountaineering gear and safety practices. Participants will put their new skills to the test with a summit bid on a classic peak like Mt. Athabasca, Boundary Peak, Mt. Wilcox, or A2. The final objective is chosen based on conditions and group fitness, ensuring a rewarding and achievable experience. Whether you’re an avid hiker, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking to try mountaineering for the first time, this beginner-friendly course offers a thrilling introduction to alpine climbing. Many of our past participants have gone on to pursue more advanced mountaineering courses after this unforgettable experience. This alpine climbing course is tailored for those with no prior mountaineering experience, but be prepared-it might spark a lifelong passion for mountaineering and the outdoors. What You’ll Learn: rope systems and belaying in alpine terrain movement on rock, snow, and ice route finding and hazard management intro to glacier travel and crevasse rescue mountain safety and decision making ItineraryLogisticsGearBooking Info

What to expect

1. Day 1 Meet at 9:00 am for a course briefing (Icefields Campground Cook Shelter) Issue mountaineering equipment and crampons. If you bring your own equipment we will help you size it properly. Head to a nearby training area (Bring your mountaineering boots to the fitting session as well as any climbing gear you have so we can check it out) Mountaineering knots and harness use. Snow school (at field site nearby) includes movement on snow, use of ice axe, self-arrest on snow, belaying on snow. Note: Much of this day is spent training, sitting, and sliding on snow. You will need waterproof gear (with dry clothing for later).
2. Day 2 Meet at 8:00 am to discuss the day’s objectives Ice school and crevasse rescue. Includes: glacier morphology, crampon technique, low angle ice climbing, ice screw placement, roping up for glaciers, crevasse rescue techniques, ice anchors, ice axe use
3. Day 3: Peak Ascent Day Typically a 3:00 am (or earlier) meet to begin the ascent day of a suitable peak. This is an exciting and challenging opportunity to put new-found skills into practice on a big mountain. Peak options include Mt. Athabasca, A2, Boundary Peak, and Mt. Wilcox. All are good introductory mountaineering challenges. The peak you attempt will depend upon the mountain conditions, the weather, and your level of fitness. We only attempt Mt. Athabasca with those physically fit enough and when conditions/weather permitting. Should conditions mean that no peak is suitable, Day 3 will be an additional day of instruction. Expect a long but rewarding day for your summit attempt. We usually start very early (well before dawn) meaning you will be exposed to the incredible beauty of a mountain sunrise. These climbs are not too technical but require many of the things mountaineers must have: stamina, fitness, route-finding skills, and good judgment.