Curriculum

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to ski mountaineering, combining backcountry travel skills with the technical knowledge needed for glacier terrain. Through hands-on training and expert instruction, you’ll develop the ability to move confidently and efficiently in complex mountain environments.

Students Will Learn:

  • Design concept & selection of equipment
  • Route selection & hazard assessment
  • Cross country & downhill skiing skills; methods of ascent & descent
  • Adjustment in technique for challenging snow conditions
  • An introduction to snowpack formation, metamorphosis, & stability assessment
  • Avalanche awareness & rescue procedures
  • Use of electronic transceivers; avalanche rescue procedures
  • Leave No Trace travel, climbing, & camping skills
  • An introduction to glaciology: ice movement & crevasse & serac formation
  • Basic skills for cramponing & ice axe usage
  • Self-arrest
  • Constructing snow anchors & operating belays
  • Roped skiing & travel skills
  • Rappelling with skis
  • Lowering a fellow skier
  • Glacier travel & crevasse recognition; team & individual crevasse rescue

 

Details

Prerequisites

  • Intermediate backcountry skiing or snowboarding ability
  • Avalanche Rec 1 and Avalanche Rescue Course (preferred, but not required)
  • Have good physical fitness, including being able to tour for multiple hours with a heavy backpack with minimal breaks.
  • Be able to dress appropriately for being outside in snowy, winter conditions, and be outside for a full day.
  • Be able to maintain your personal nutrition and hydration needs throughout the day (you may not have an official break for lunch – these are often done “on the go” – so you need to be able to manage your personal needs in this regard).

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.