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 hauling systems. The Introduction to Rock Rescue is a 4-hour introduction to basic multi-pitch self-rescue.
These programs are both done inside to stay out of the weather. They use a combination of powerpoint presentations and hands-on training for students to develop a baseline understanding of these complicated skills.
All students should consider outdoor programming on these subjects with AAI after completing one or both of these programs.
The goal of this program is to introduce students to the basic fundamentals of crevasse rescue and crevasse rescue hauling systems. Skills covered in the program include, but are not limited to:
- Roping Up for Glacier Travel
- Glacier Travel Theory
- Rope Climbing Techniques
- Snow Anchor and Ice Anchor Theory
- Load Transfers
- Hauling Systems (2:1, 3:1, 6:1)
The goal of this program is to introduce students to the basic fundamentals of self-rescue in a multi-pitch scenario. Skills covered in this program include, but are not limited to:
- Belay Escapes and Load Transfers
- Tandem and Counterbalance Rappels
- Rope Climbing Systems
- Lowering Systems
- Hauling Systems (3:1, 6:1)

