First Steps: An Online Guide To Glacier Mountaineering
Learn about the world of mountaineering with this comprehensive, self-paced online course. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer looking for a reference or completely new to mountain travel, this course covers the fundamental skills needed to tackle glacier mountaineering with confidence.
You’ll learn essential mountaineering techniques, including gear selection and use, meal planning for the backcountry, map and compass navigation, and how to pack a mountaineering pack. We’ll also introduce key technical skills like self arrest, glacier and roped team travel, and crevasse safety—crucial for anyone venturing into glaciated or higher-altitude environments.
This course is designed for hikers and backpackers ready to take the next step toward technical mountaineering, a reference guide for anyone teaching or leading mountaineering expeditions, or climbers looking to better understands what it look and feels like to climbing glaciated peaks. Complete it from anywhere, then put your knowledge into practice with one of our in-person training courses in the Pacific Northwest, like our 1-day Mt. Hood Skills Course or 3-day Glacier Mountaineering Skills Course.
Course Content Includes:
Fitness and conditioning requirements
Detailed review of equipment and clothing needs
Trip planning and preparation
Land management agencies and land use permits
Mountain weather and forecasting
Meal preparation
Navigation (map and compass)
Climbing styles and ethics
Understanding mountain hazards
Glacier rigging and roped travel
Crevasse rescue basics
Leave No Trace principles and ethics
Basic emergency response
Build a strong foundation and prepare for real-world adventures—your mountaineering journey starts here!
This is a self-paced online course that you can take in the comfort of your own home. You will periodically need to submit videos of yourself performing skills from the curriculum that may be best done outdoors.
Any backcountry experience will enhance your ability to learn, but is not required.
Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email full of important information - make sure to read it thoroughly!
Within a few days, you will receive an invitation to your online coursework via the email address you provided in your registration. This email will come from our online learning service provider, "Rounded Adventurer" or "Thinkific." Be sure to check your spam filters if you don't see it!
All along the way, our office team is available via email or phone to answer any questions you may have.
By enrolling in the Beginner Mountaineering Course you will receive:
A clear path to building technical skills as a mountaineer.
Videos related to every aspect of mountaineering.
A thorough understanding of every skill needed to start mountaineering, and what you need to do to gain proficiency.
Homework assignments that check your comprehension.
Access to a professional and certified rock climbing guide and mentor giving you feedback throughout your journey.
A Beginner Mountaineering Certification given by Kaf Adventures.
Access to a private facebook group for other certified mountaineers.
Confidence that you have the baseline skills to take the next step in your mountaineering journey.
