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North America
North America Programs
North America is a world-class mountaineering destination, home to some of the most iconic and varied alpine terrain on the planet. From the towering peaks of the Rockies and the glaciated summits of Alaska to the volcanic giants of the Pacific Northwest and the alpine routes of the Canadian Rockies, the continent offers unparalleled opportunities for climbers of all abilities. Whether you are seeking technical climbs, multi-day expeditions, or scenic alpine adventures, North America provides the perfect mix of challenge, beauty, and accessibility to grow your skills and deepen your connection to the mountains.
Guided Rock Climbing at Leavenworth, WA
Leavenworth is a diverse area. At least eight different crags lie within a ten mile radius of the picturesque “Bavarian” town after which the area is named. With the exception … Read more
Guided Alpine Climbing in the Alaska Range
The Central Alaska Range is made up of the peaks and valleys that surround Denali, Mount Hunter, and Mount Foraker. In the deep glacial gorges that drop from Denali’s flanks … Read more
Little Switzerland/Pika Glacier Expedition
Little Switzerland is the name given to a series of dramatic granite spires jutting up out of the Pika Glacier like broken teeth. Found just 35 miles south of Denali … Read more
Guided Backcountry Skiing & Snowboarding in Colorado’s San Juans
The San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado provide fulfilling alpine experiences for all backcountry skiers and snowboarders alike. The low density continental snowpack and short-lived storms combine to make the … Read more
Guided Ice Climbing in the Eastern Sierra
As the Summer fades and Fall’s crisp temperatures begin to turn cold, ice climbers around the nation begin to think about tall, shaded walls of hard water ice. With dozens … Read more
Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing – Mt Charleston, NV
Just over an hour from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas Strip lies the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, home to the magnificent Mt. Charleston. Mt. Charleston boasts … Read more
Vocational Training for the Outdoor Professional
The American Alpine Institute offers various vocational programs designed to address educational and certification needs for outdoor professionals. These professionals include climbers, mountaineers, ski patrollers, mountain rescue technicians, outdoor educators, … Read more
Mountain Programs for Youth Organizations
Research shows that adventure education has an incredibly positive impact on children and youth. These types of experiences increase confidence, encourage cooperation, enhance communication skills, build self-reliance, strengthen friendships and … Read more
Guided Rock Climbing at Squamish, BC
Settled up against British Columbia’s Howe Sound, the tiny city of Squamish is home to fifteen thousand residents, most of who are climbers, skiers, windsufers, scuba divers or mountain bikers. … Read more
Alpine Mountaineering and Technical Leadership, Part 4
Alpine Mountaineering and Technical Leadership Part 4 (AMTL 4) is the capstone of the American Alpine Institute’s four-part alpine training progression. This advanced expedition course is where climbers bring together … Read more
Guided First Ascents at Red Rock, NV
Red Rock Canyon is not a very old climbing area in the scheme of things. A small cadre of locals and a handful of visiting climbers have primarily been responsible … Read more
Guided Rock Climbing at Mt. Erie, WA
Mount Erie is a great place for a beginning rock climber or for someone looking to perfect their skills. Located on the top of a large bluff overlooking the San … Read more
Guided Alpine Rock Climbing in the Bugaboos, BC
Bugaboo Glacier Provincial Park encompasses scores of beautiful spires, all providing classic alpine routes on sweeping faces and elegantly defined ridges of high quality granite. The spires rise from the … Read more
Canyoning Washington: Skills and Descents
The American Alpine Institute’s Washington Canyoning: Skills and Descents program was designed for those who are interested in entry to intermediate level instructional guided descents in the Pacific Northwest. AAI … Read more
Backcountry Skiing – Advanced
This immersive two-day backcountry skiing clinic is designed for experienced skiers and splitboarders who want to go beyond the basics and push deeper into the wilderness. You’ll refine your touring … Read more
Events, Films and Speakers
The American Alpine Institute offers a wide array of events throughout the year. These include actual events, seminars, educational programming, volunteer opportunities, adopt-a-crag events, films, speakers, art and photography displays. … Read more
Climbing Seminars
The Mountain Center at the American Alpine Institute is proud to present two “ground-school” seminars. The Introduction to Crevasse Rescue program is a 4-hour overview of baseline glacier travel and … Read more
Winter Camping in the Cascades
This course equips skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, and climbers with the essential skills to confidently spend multiple nights in the winter backcountry. Whether you’re heading out on early winter mountaineering trips … Read more
Guided Rock Climbing at Index, WA
Index is one of the premier rock climbing areas in Washington state. The easily accessed, Yosemite-like granite walls rise dramatically above the lush Skykomish River valley and provide steep, varied … Read more
Rigging for Film, Television and Photography
Mountain environments are perhaps one of the most difficult and dangerous places that a production team can possibly work in. There is constant risk associated with this type of work. … Read more
Military and Government Mountain Training
Military, law enforcement and other government agents are often required to work in “high-end” mountain terrain to achieve their tactical objectives. These settings may require technical rock climbing, glacier mountaineering, … Read more
Corporate Team Building – Rock Climbing and Rappelling
Rock climbing is an ideal resource for any organization that is interested in building trust and cooperation amongst its members. The sport presents teamwork as a natural solution to overcoming … Read more
Guided Ice Climbing and Winter Ascents in the Cascades
Cascades winter terrain is a complex and highly variable environment where ephemeral conditions demand precision and experience. Formed by fluctuating temperatures and intricate mountain systems, routes require advanced movement, efficient … Read more
Saint Elias Range Skills Expedition
Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is America’s largest and most rugged national park, containing one of the world’s least visited expanse of mountain terrain. Bordering Canada’s Yukon, this vast area … Read more
