Quick Details
**ONLINE COURSE COMING FALL 2024!**
We are currently converting this course to an online curriculum so you can learn the foundational skills of mountaineering at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home! Take advantage of the rainy season and learn the basics online so you’ll be ready to get on the mountain by spring.
If you prefer a classroom setting, we can offer this course to groups of 4 or more as a custom course by request. Please contact us to schedule.
Beginner Mountaineering
Learn the basics of what it takes to climb a mountain in this online self-paced, or eight-hour indoor course. Our Beginner Mountaineering course will teach you required mountaineering skills like gear selection and use, meal preparation, map and compass navigation, and how to pack a backpack.
After this one-day course and some fitness training, you will be ready for our Glacier Mountaineering Skills Course. This 3 day course includes snow and glacier skills as well as a summit attempt of Mount Baker!
This course is great for hikers and backpackers looking to become technical mountaineers. Join us in person in the Pacific Northwest, or from your couch anywhere!
Additional Information
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Coming Fall 2024: We are currently converting this to an online curriculum. We will update the description when it is complete. In the meantime, we can offer this course to group of 4 or more s as a custom course if needed. Please contact us.
This classroom-based course is designed to introduce you to the exciting journey of mountaineering.
The course is delivered in lecture format, discussing the rigors, equipment, and logistics of glacier mountaineering. Kaf will help you build a foundation of skills needed to travel in snowy and glaciated terrain. The course is designed to prepare you for a guided, overnight, multi-day peak ascent.
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- 18+ for adult courses or 16+ with consent from a guardian and Kaf approval
- 12-18 for youth courses
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This is a beginner level course. Any backcountry knowledge will enhance your ability to learn, but no prior experience is necessary.
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- Trip planning and preparation practice
- Discussion of land management agencies and land use permits
- Fitness and conditioning requirements
- Detailed review of equipment and clothing requirements
- Navigation
- Meal preparation
- Understanding mountain hazards
- Mountain weather and forecasting
- Climbing styles and ethics
- Leave No Trace principles and ethics
- Glacier rigging and travel
- Basic emergency response
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- Professional instruction from full time mountaineering instructors
- Mountaineering packet
- Kaf resources
- Group climbing gear
- Professional instruction from full time mountaineering instructors
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- Lunch and snacks
- Transportation
- Glacier rig kit
- Lunch and snacks
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Mountaineering gear is not required but if you have questions about your gear feel free to bring it with you.
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Please note: We are currently converting this to an online curriculum.
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After you’ve completed this introductory course, you’ll be ready to practice your skills on the Glacier Mountaineering Skills Course Course. So sign up today and let’s go climb a volcano!