Summer Glacier Ice Climbing Course
Summer Glacier Ice Climbing Course
Summer Glacier Ice Climbing Course
Summer Glacier Ice Climbing Course

Summer Glacier Ice Climbing Course

Regular price$549.00
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Location
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Head to the captivating north side of Mt. Baker and practice the art of ice climbing on the infamous Coleman Seracs! Over two days, you’ll immerse yourself in a rare opportunity to surmount a famous glacier of the Cascade Range. These majestic ice formations, nestled amidst stunning alpine landscapes, present a unique challenge and a chance to explore some of nature’s most breathtaking terrain. Led by seasoned guides, you’ll master essential skills like rope techniques, ice axe maneuvers, and ice protection. By the end of the weekend, you’ll have gained the confidence to navigate and ascend these pristine icy slopes. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure, where the thrill of climbing meets the rare beauty of the Pacific Northwest’s blue ice.

Duration

  • 2 days
  • 1 night

Season

  • Spring
  • Summer

Client:Guide Ratio

4:1

Minimum Participants

3

Day 1 - This trip begins at the Heliotrope trailhead. The approach is a moderate 2.5 mile hike with 1500' of gain and multiple water crossings. We'll drop gear at camp before continuing on a short ways to an afternoon of climbing on the Coleman Seracs, then return to camp for a hot meal and a good night's sleep.

Day 2 - Sunday morning we'll take the instruction to the next level with round 2 of climbing, then will pack up camp for the hike out. You can expect to be back to the parking lot around 4pm.

  • Knowledge of basic climbing knots and ability to top rope belay is recommended.
  • Any additional climbing experience will enhance your ability to learn, but is not required.
  • Ability to hike the distance and elevation gain noted for your chosen location with a 40+ lb pack.
  • Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email full of important information - make sure to read it thoroughly!
  • 7-10 days before your trip you will receive an email from your guide containing even more details, including the exact meetup location and time.
  • Plan to attend a virtual pre-trip meeting in the evening a few days before your course begins. This is required and a great opportunity to meet your guide, review gear, discuss your trip plan, and ask any last minute questions. For Sat-Sun AIARE courses plan on Thursday 6:30-8:30pm; otherwise the exact time of your meeting will be set by your instructor and noted in their welcome email.
  • Leading up to your course, make sure to eat healthy, drink extra water, and get plenty of sleep.
  • Please arrive on time and ready to go at your pre-arranged meeting location. Upon arrival, we'll distribute any group gear and finish loading our packs. From there we will caravan to the trailhead.
  • All along the way, our office team is available via email or phone to answer any questions you may have.

This course will leave you with knowledge and practical application of:

  • Belay techniques
  • Ice tool and crampon techniques
  • Ice climbing movement

PLUS:

  • A fun experience you’ll remember forever! 
  • A sense of accomplishment in achieving your goals for the trip.
  • Confidence in your newfound skills and where to take them next.
  • Tips and tricks to add to your toolbox from our professional and knowledgeable guides.

Equipment Lists

Required Gear

  1. Sleeping gear
    -15º-30º sleeping bag
    -sleeping pad
  2. Backpack 45-60L capacity make sure to leave room for group gear 
  3. Mountaineering boots *¾ or full shank required, and crampons that fit snugly 
  4. Water bottles with at least 2L capacity
  5. Personal kit
    -sunscreen *SPF 40 or higher
    -lip balm
    -headlamp and extra batteries
    -toiletries *please bring a plastic baggie for waste
    -personal medications and first aid
  6. Personal mess kit
    -bowl *w/ lid preferred
    -cup 
    -utensil
  7. Head/face protection 
    -warm hat 
    -sun hat *baseball cap is fine
    -neck gaiter *buff
    -sunglasses with good side coverage 
  8. Insulating/puffy layer
  9. Waterproof layer *hooded jacket and pants
  10. Climbing gear
    -harness *rock climbing style preferred over glacier style
    -2 pear-shaped locking carabiners 
    -helmet
  11. Moisture wicking, non-cotton base layer top and bottom
  12. 2 pairs of gloves 
    -insulating gloves
    -waterproof gloves

Not Pictured/Optional Gear
☐ Lunches for on trail  ☐ Camp shoes ☐ Trekking poles ☐ Whistle ☐ Pocketknife/Leatherman ☐ Extra nylon cord (25-50’) ☐ Area maps and compass ☐ Heavy duty plastic trash bags (for water-proofing) ☐ Note pad/pencil
☐ Camera ☐ Watch ☐ Half foam pad to stand/sit in snow ☐ Extra stuff sacks ☐ Bandana ☐ Wind-breaker jacket and pant

What Kaf Provides

  1. Tents
  2. Ice tools and protection
  3. In Reach satellite radio
  4. Water purification
  5. Group cookware
  6. Food storage
  7. Wag bags
  8. Breakfasts and dinners for field days *this includes hot drink mixes
  9. Group stoves and fuel
  10. Group first aid kit and medical supplies 
  11. Climbing ropes