Curriculum

This course is an immersive introduction to mountaineering.  It is designed to give you a solid foundation in glacier travel, an introduction to rock climbing techniques, and to develop mountain decision-making skills. Set in one of the most heavily glaciated regions of the lower 48, it offers unmatched access to diverse alpine terrain. Your classroom includes everything from crevasse-laced glaciers to rugged rock walls with sweeping views of the Puget Sound, creating the perfect environment to build real skills and confidence in the mountains.

Upon completion of the program, each participant should be qualified as a technically competent rope team member capable of making alpine mountaineering ascents on glaciated routes of intermediate difficulty.

Students Will Learn:

  • Gear selection and use
  • Rock climbing fundamentals
  • Belaying and rappelling
  • Basic climbing knots, hitches, and prusiks
  • Leave No Trace principles
  • Crampon techniques and ice axe self-arrest
  • Rope team skills and management
  • Crevasse rescue systems
  • Snow anchors
  • Route finding, navigation, and hazard assessment
  • Glaciology and mountain weather
  • Summit strategies

Details

Prerequisites

  • Good physical fitness
  • Ability to carry a 45 – 55 lb backpack for multiple hours
  • Stamina to hike for over 8 hours (including breaks, and with a lighter pack weight)
  • Ability to cook for yourself on a backpacking stove
  • Overnight backpacking experience

If you lack overnight backpacking experience, you can add a 2-day Backpacking and Wilderness Skills course at a discounted price and go straight into Alpinism 1.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions: Included in the course cost are group technical climbing equipment like ropes and pickets, transportation to the climbing areas from AAI headquarters, all permits and camping fees, and the guide fee.

Exclusions: Not included in the course cost are all personal clothing and climbing gear, rentals, gratuities to the guide, meals, or travel insurance.

Course Options

Take Your Skills to the Next Level

After completing Alpinism 1, you can move on to Alpinism 2 to add alpine rock climbing to your skillset.  If you’re looking for a seamless approach to a comprehensive experience that combines both rock and ice, consider Alpine Mountaineering and Technical Leadership Part 1 (AMTL 1). This full program includes the same curriculum as Alpinism 1 and 2 combined in a continuous 12 days.

There is a $150 discount for taking Alpinism 1 and Alpinism 2 within 14 months of each other.

Navigate with Confidence

While this program includes backcountry navigation, time on the mountain is limited. Many climbers choose to expand their skills by adding our dedicated Backcountry Navigation Comprehensive program. This add-on gives you extra practice and confidence with route-finding, map reading, and glacier navigation, ensuring you’re fully prepared to move independently and efficiently in the backcountry.

When to Climb in the Cascades

Every month in the Cascades tells a different story. Early, mid, and late summer each bring unique conditions that affect your climb. See how the season you choose can shape your route, snow conditions, and overall experience in this article.

Porter Program

We also offer a porter program for individuals who require physical assistance.