Intro Mixed Climbing!
Learn how to use your ice tools and crampons on mixed routes with rock. This course is designed for ice climbers that want to learn the basics of dry tooling.
Partially formed ice routes and high alpine peaks are climbed with metal picks and crampon points on rock and ice. This is mixed climbing, a culmination of several disciplines, and perhaps the last tool in your toolbox.
You will spend 1 days climbing with your guide in the area near Squamish. There are several dry tooling areas that offer fun top rope climbing.
Itinerary
Courses are in Squamish area from 8am - 4pm. Meet your Guide at Cloudburst Cafe in Squamish at 8am. Plan to be back at the cars by 4pm.
8am - 4pm
Waiver
You are required to read the VMG Waiver and agree to it’s terms and conditions prior to paying or signing. Your guide needs to see the emailed waiver verification before participating.
Goals
Using the pick: torquing, stein pulls, underclings, and figure-4’s.
Movement over mixed terrain. Top roping mixed climbs.
Practice moving over mixed terrain. Traversing, matching, getting high on tools.
Strategies to avoid fatigue, what to do if you get pumped - shaking out.
Prepping the climb to remove dangerous ice.
Strategies to climb thin ice. Not swinging. Scratching pick holes, matching front points.
Top roping different mixed climbs
Ratio
6:1 (min 3)
participants : guide
Note: private courses and guided climbs can be organized. Contact VMG to discuss your requirements.
Pre-requisites
Top-rope ice climb WI4.
Can belay and tie a figure-8 knot.
Hiking 30mins uphill with a backpack.
Questions?
Fee
$299 +GST (1 day)
Dates
Private clinics, choose one date, Nov 1 - Mar 31
(minimum 3)
Equipment
Harness
Helmet (climbing)
Ice climbing boots (welts for ice climbing crampons)
Ice crampons
Ice tools
Belay device and locking carabiner
2 x Locking carabiners (D-shape)
1 x Double length sling (120cm)
1 x Cordalette (5m x 7mm cord)
Headlamp
Thermos/Water bottle
Backpack w/ice axe holders (40L)
Winter clothing (click for list)