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)

Note: VMG supplies, ropes, anchors, ice tools, and can supply crampons (if needed).