After setting camp, we practice knot tying, rope handling, prussiking and other related subjects. Students learn the fundamentals of moving safely and efficiently on snow slopes of all degrees. Evening discussions focus on route finding and glacier travel. Considerable time is spent on crevasse rescue, as it is an essential skill for safe travel on glaciers. Everyone has the opportunity to rescue an individual from a crevasse.
Instruction includes prussiking, pulley systems and placing rescue anchors on snow and ice.
Additional instruction will be given in proper crampon use. We begin by developing proper techniques using crampons on low angle ice, move onto steeper and more challenging terrain. Emphasis is placed on proper technique and efficiency, as these are essential on longer alpine routes. At camp we discuss navigation and other mountaineering topics. Time permitting, we do a high glacier tour around spectacular ice towers as well as some additional ice climbing.