Mountaineering 103

Mountaineering 103 builds on advanced techniques to prepare you for the most challenging and technical climbs. This course is designed for experienced mountaineers looking to refine their skills for high-altitude and complex routes. Gain a deeper understanding of mountaineering strategies and tackle demanding terrain with confidence.

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Advanced Climbing Techniques: Master complex climbing and rescue methods.

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High-Altitude Navigation: Develop skills for navigating extreme environments.

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Technical Gear Usage: Learn the use of specialized equipment for difficult climbs.

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Preparation for Extreme Challenges: Ideal for those aiming for summit attempts on challenging peaks.

Description

All ages 12 and up

Traveling in the backcountry of the Colorado Rockies can be an intimidating undertaking. Mountain enthusiasts need to be well prepared to handle anything the mountains might throw at them. Learn how to approach and achieve mountain objectives with the guides at Apex Mountain School.

Certain peaks can be accessed through easier routes without the use of technical gear. In the Mountaineering 103 course we focus on preparing you for more technical routes. We will help you plan routes which are not so well marked whether they be on rock, ice or snow. Another important aspect of mountaineering is knowing how to act in case of an emergency. Crevasse rescue is one of the techniques we could help you develop.

We can work with you to enhance existing skills such as those covered in our Mountaineering 101 and 102 courses. We will also help to build new technical skills. Just as importantly, we will help you hone your mountain sense and judgement as our guides share with you their strategies for making the most of mountain environments.

Apex Mountain School’s Mountaineering series of courses offers a logical progression in your development as a mountaineer.

 

Possible Topics

  • Advanced alpine terrain selection and travel protocols
    • Discuss different route options and select suitable terrain.
  • Technical climbing on steep slopes
    • Experience climbing on breathtaking terrain in the heart of Colorado’s Rockies.
  • Moving rope belays and roped team efficiencies
    • Advanced lessons in rope management and belay techniques.
  • Transitions
    • Learn to be efficient while moving between different terrain and techniques.
  • Crevasse rescue
    • An important skill in any glaciated mountain environment.
  • Incorporating mixed mediums
    • Rock/snow/ice

Booking & Availability
Ready to embark on your winter adventure? We’re excited to guide you on your Mountaineering 103 journey. Reserve your spot through the calendar below, or for more information, call us at (970) 949-9111 or visit our contact page.

If you don’t see enough availability for your group, give us a call—our team can often accommodate larger groups or special requests with flexibility. Let’s get you out in the snow!

Quick Information

Course overview:
Learn skills essential to traveling and surviving in the mountains, including  navigation, ice climbing and snow travel.

All ages 12 and up

Dates:
Available daily

Duration:
6 hours

Location:
Leadville, CO (Chalk Creek)
Vail, CO (Meadow Mountain)
San Juan Range

Difficulty:
Moderate – Difficult

Policies

See our inclusion policy for special group requests.

What you should bring

WHAT TO BRING

  • Beacon (rental available)
  • *No cotton – cotton does not wick moisture or insulate when wet.
  • Synthetic or wool long underwear bottom (thin)
  • Synthetic or wool long sleeve top (medium)
  • Mid layer top and bottom
  • Synthetic or wool socks
  • Winter jacket
  • Insulated “Puffy” Jacket
  • Snow pants
  • Warm gloves or mittens
  • Hat and neck gaiter or balaclava
  • Goggles or sunglasses
  • Small day pack
  • Water bottle
  • Food

ALSO CONSIDER

  • Hand warmers
  • Thermos of hot liquid
  • Gaiters
  • Extra gloves
  • Lip balm
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle insulator
  • Camera

APEX MOUNTAIN SCHOOL PROVIDES

  • Boots
  • Crampons
  • Ice Axes
  • Helmet
  • Harness (42”/44” max)
Mountain Bike Vail
APEX MOUNTAIN SCHOOL

Gift Cards

Wrap up excitement : give the gift of adrenaline!

gift cards

AVALANCHE EDUCATION

APEX MOUNTAIN SCHOOL

WINTER GUIDED

APEX MOUNTAIN SCHOOL

PRIVATE CLINICS

APEX MOUNTAIN SCHOOL

SUMMER GUIDED

APEX MOUNTAIN SCHOOL

Meet our guides

Our guides are dedicated to giving the safest, most fulfilling experience to our clients. With the most AMGA certifications we have the most qualified guides in the area.

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