Instruction is given on Mt. Baker which has eighteen glaciers and routes of all technical standards. This area of the North Cascades is the principal training ground in America for those planning Alaskan, Andean, and Himalayan ascents because the ice climbing can be done during the summer months when the weather is mild and stable, and because during that period one can climb on a complete range of snow and ice types, each of which requires adjustments in both climbing technique and the operation of the protective system. Upon completion of this program participants should be technically prepared to make ascents of significantly difficult alpine routes. The complete course is six days long and is normally taken as a unit, but the three segments can be taken separately. Applicants should have alpine mountaineering experience.
Tuition includes the provision of group climbing equipment.
See the Schedules and Registration brochure for information on rentals of personal gear. Climbing in groups of three to eight with one instructor. Glacial structures, hazard evaluation, principles of glacier travel, crevasse rescue. Most commonly they are Mt. Baker via the Roosevelt Headwall, North Ridge, Roman Mustache, or the 2500-foot Coleman Headwall. Easier routes are climbed when appropriate for conditions.