- Intermediate Skill Level Intermediate
- Ages 16+ Ages Ages 16+
This course is designed for climbers to learn the intermediate skills of mountaineering including glacier travel, ice axe and crampon use, and self-arrest.
Quick Details
Beginner Mountaineering
Learn the basics of what it takes to climb a mountain in this eight-hour indoor course. Our Mountaineering: Beginner course will teach you required mountaineering skills like meal preparation, map, and compass navigation, how to pack a backpack, and what to bring on a climb.
After this one-day course, you will be ready for Mountaineering: Intermediate, where you get to climb Mount Baker for a three-day mountaineering course and summit attempt!
This course is great for hikers and backpackers looking to become technical mountaineers and explorers of Washington and Oregon’s volcanoes.
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Please note: We are currently converting this to an online curriculum. We will update the description when it is complete. We can offer this course to groups as a custom course if needed. Please contact us.
This classroom-based course is designed to introduce you to the exciting journey of mountaineering. This course will be held indoors at our office. Custom locations can work as well. The course will meet at 9 a.m. and finish at 5 p.m.
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.
There is a running component to the course. Participants will be expected to run 2 miles to gage their preparedness for the physical fitness demands of mountaineering. Please bring running shoes, and an outfit to run in, rain or shine.
Additional Information
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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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Please bring running shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and something to take notes with. 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.
Once registered, Kaf will provide information regarding meeting times and locations. -
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!
