IMCS - Advanced Ice

Advanced-Level Ice Climbing Courses
Winter 2008/2009

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Mixing It Up: Advanced Rock and Ice Climbing Skills

Imagine. Stemming wide over a rock overhang then placing your left crampon delicately in the pocket of a vertical ice curtain with the right crampon on a small edge in perfect granite. Underclinging the ice with your gloved hand while reaching to hook your ice tool in the thin cracks above. This is mixed climbing and it is as old as the mountains themselves and as new as the latest craze of climbing difficult and gymnastic mixed rock and ice routes. The "M" grades are here so join us to learn these exciting new techniques. Mixed climbing skills should be part of every mountaineers bag of tricks because it is normal to encounter snow, rock and ice terrain in the big mountains as well as the routes in Huntington Ravine. Prepare yourself to be the best alpinist possible with this advanced level course.

IMCS guide Kevin Mahoney climbing thin and steep ice on the Barber Wall, Cathedral Ledge. (click for full size image)

Dates:

Janaury 3-4 & 17-18; Jan 31- Feb 1; February 14-15; Feb 28 - March 1.

Cost:

$500 (private weekend); $350 (group of two); $280 (group of three) *all pricer per person

Tipping of guides is never expected but is always appreciated

Advanced: Three-Day Ice Leader Course

This is an advanced level course for experienced climbers who feel ready for the "sharp end". Leading is very rewarding but can also be dangerous and scary if you are not prepared technically, physically and mentally.

Day one covers advanced anchor & belay systems, racking of gear, rope management, and routefinding while on a multi-pitch climb. You will end the day with a lead while top-roped and set up your own descent. Day two will be another day of leading on top-rope with the possibility of leading your own climb. More discussion on efficient gear racking strategies and rope management with a double rope system. Day three will be another day of leading on top rope, setting your own descent and formal instruction on ice self-rescue systems. Climbers will come away from this course with a better understanding of the risks involved and the technical skills required to lead-climb waterfall ice.

IMCS guide Maury McKinney on the backcountry classic Way in the Wilderness (click for full size image)

Each course is different. Tell us what skills and experiences you need. We will design the course to make it worthwhile for you. Confidence is key when you lead climb, especially on ice. Confidence only comes from experience and knowledge

Dates:

December 27-29; January 17-19; February 20-22; March 6-8

Cost:

$750 (private); $525 (group of two); $420 (group of three). $360 (group of four) *all pricer per person