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.
Advanced Climbing Techniques: Master complex climbing and rescue methods.
High-Altitude Navigation: Develop skills for navigating extreme environments.
Technical Gear Usage: Learn the use of specialized equipment for difficult climbs.
Preparation for Extreme Challenges: Ideal for those aiming for summit attempts on challenging peaks.
What skills are covered in the Mountaineering 103 course?
Mountaineering 103 focuses on advanced skills which can include technical climbing on steep slopes, crevasse rescue, moving rope belays, and efficient transitions between different terrain types. This course is designed for more experienced climbers who want to refine their techniques and tackle more challenging routes.
Who is Mountaineering 103 best suited for?
Mountaineering 103 is ideal for participants with medium to significant climbing or mountaineering experience, especially those who have completed Mountaineering 102. It’s perfect for climbers preparing for high-altitude expeditions or climbs, or looking to enhance their technical skills in mixed terrain.
What gear is needed for Mountaineering 103?
We provide essential technical gear, including boots, crampons, ice axes, helmets, and harnesses. You’ll need to bring layered clothing, a reliable backpack, and plenty of water and snacks. For the complete list, check out the “What to Bring” tab above.
How physically demanding is Mountaineering 103?
Mountaineering 103 is our most challenging course, requiring a higher level of physical fitness and experience. It involves potentially steep and complex terrain, and technical maneuvers. The course is tailored to meet your skill level and goals, but participants should be prepared for a full day of medium to strenuous activity.
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
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)
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.
What are you waiting for?
