A three-day course that will teach you the skills to lead climb on ice
This three-day course will teach you the skills to lead climb on ice. We will first review the basic techniques of ice climbing at your level, and then will quickly move into getting you ready to put up the rope. We will cover placing ice screws, efficient movement skills, building anchors, rappelling, and assessing the safety of the ice. By the end of this course you will be ready to ice climb on your own with a partner!
day 1
The first day will be devoted to ice climbing fundamentals. We will practice on a beginner single-pitch icefall, such as the ‘Pylône’ near the village of Les Fréaux. We will review the basics of climbing techniques (how to use ice axes, crampons and icescrews), as well as manipulations at the belay and rappelling techniques. We will also observe and assess the current conditions of the icefall.
day 2
We will put our knowledge into practice on multi-pitch icefalls. If the students are ready, they will either climb a “mock” lead, or a real lead climb.
The choice of icefalls will depend on the level and experience of the participants and on the current conditions.
day 3
The third and final day will be the culmination of the skills covered during the first two days. We will climb another multi-pitch ice climb near La Grave.
The choice of icefalls will depend on the level and experience of the participants and on the current conditions.
Outing with a certified mountain guide or instructor
Professional Civil Liability Insurance
Group technical gear (rope…)
Picnic for during the day
Personal Accident Insurance
Appropriate clothing for your activity (long-johns, fleece/softshell jacket, down jacket, gore-tex jacket, ski pants, ski socks, warm hat, warm gloves, thin gloves)
Ski goggles, sunglasses, sunscreen
Water Bottle or thermos, food and snacks
helmet
harness
A pair of ice climbing ice axes + ice climbing crampons
Mountain boots that work with crampons
backpack (around 35L)
Small first aid kit for your personal needs and that contains material in case of blisters
Meal costs for clients and guide
You have already tried ice climbing or you have a lot of experience rock climbing. You would like to try longer multi-pitch climbs. You are able to give an all day effort.
You are a physically active person and you are capable of a sustained all day effort in the mountains.