Mountaineering 101
Start your mountaineering journey with Mountaineering 101, where we focus on the fundamental skills needed for safe and efficient winter mountain climbing. Ideal for beginners looking to step into the world of alpine adventures.
Learn core techniques like ice axe use, self-arrest, and rope management
Introductory skills for snow and glacier navigation
Gain knowledge in winter gear and its use
Perfect for those wanting to progress in the mountaineering realm
Who is Mountaineering 101 designed for?
Mountaineering 101 is perfect for beginners or outdoor enthusiasts looking to build a beginning foundation in mountaineering. No prior experience is necessary, and our guides will introduce you to essential techniques while helping you develop your mountain sense, skills and judgment.
What skills will I learn in Mountaineering 101?
This course covers a variety of fundamental skills, which may include mountaineering equipment basics, uphill travel, self-arrest techniques, and winter shelter construction. Our guides will tailor the instruction to your needs, ensuring you leave with a solid understanding of the basics.
How physically demanding is Mountaineering 101?
Mountaineering 101 is designed to be accessible for those with a moderate level of fitness. The course involves light hiking and climbing, with breaks for skill instruction. Our guides will adjust the pace based on your comfort level, making it a great introduction to the sport.
Do I need prior avalanche training for Mountaineering 101?
No avalanche training is required to join Mountaineering 101. However, we do offer instruction on basic avalanche awareness and beacon use as part of the course. If you’re interested in more in-depth training, check out our Avalanche Education courses.
Description
Travelling 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. We can work to provide you to with new 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. Topics for each course may include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: Mountaineering Equipment Basics – Learn to use and take care of a variety of mountain gear including climbing, navigation, and camping equipment.
POSSIBLE TOPICS:
- Avalanche Education and Beacon Use
- Instruction in proper use of beacons, probes, and shovels.
- Strategic Travel
- Learn efficient travel methods, route finding, and trip planning.
- Technical Climbing
- Learn to belay and travel on steep snow and even ice!
- Self-Arrest
- Simulated scenarios help you understand how to stop your fall on high angle snow and ice.
- Shelter Construction (if multiple days)
- Igloo, Quinzee, Tree Well Shelter, Cave and Snow Trench are discussed.
- We will construct a shelter for our overnight stay.
- Backcountry Ski Touring and Telemark Technique
- Practice backcountry skiing skills including uphill travel and great turns.
- Winter Survival
- We close with a few “what if’s”, as well as exploring mock scenarios.
Booking & Availability
Ready to embark on your winter adventure? We’re excited to guide you on your Mountaineering 101 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, avalanche education, 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)
Difficulty:
Easy – 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?
