The Climbing Company

What is Advanced Alpine Travel?

Building on foundational skills, this course delves into the techniques needed for more challenging alpine terrain. You'll learn to move efficiently and safely on steep snow and ice, handle complex rope systems, and manage technical climbs in alpine conditions.

What Will We Learn?

Advanced Movement Skills

• Steep terrain techniques with crampons and ice axes
• Near-vertical climbing on snow and ice
• Technical descent methods
• Efficient movement in mixed terrain

Rope and Protection Systems

• Roped glacier travel
• Snow protection placement
• Advanced anchor building
• Direct harness and anchor belaying
• Safe climbing in alpine terrain

Mixed Climbing Skills

• Dry tooling fundamentals
• Rock protection while wearing crampons
• Transitioning between snow, ice, and rock
• Movement techniques for mixed terrain

Rescue and Safety

• Simple hauling systems
• Crevasse rescue techniques
• Team arrest scenarios
• Emergency response in alpine terrain

Equipment needed:

• Warm Clothing: Layered clothing including base layers, insulating layers, and a waterproof and breathable outer shell jacket and pants. (Have extra jacket)
• Insulated Gloves or Mittens: Protect your hands from the cold and wind. (Have a spare pare as we touch the snow a lot and your gloves will get wet)
• Warm Hat or Beanie: Keep your head and ears covered to retain heat.
• Thermal Socks: Provide insulation and moisture-wicking properties to keep your feet warm and dry.
• Sturdy Winter Boots: Insulated and waterproof boots with good traction for walking on snow or icy surfaces. Please ensure they are compatible with crampons and ask us if you are unsure.
• Backpack: Carry your essentials, such as water, snacks, extra clothing, and equipment.
• Navigation Tools: Map, compass, or GPS device to navigate your surroundings.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: Essential for winter activities with limited daylight or in case of emergencies.
• Sun Protection: Sunglasses or goggles, sunscreen, and lip balm with SPF to protect against the sun's rays reflecting off the snow.
• Trekking Poles: Provide stability and support, especially on uneven or slippery terrain.
• Hand and Toe Warmers: Disposable heat packs to provide extra warmth in extremely cold conditions.
• Snacks and Water: Carry high-energy snacks and sufficient water to stay hydrated during your activity.

The guide will carry the following:

• First aid kit: A compact first aid kit with essential supplies.

We will supply the following (though you are welcome to use your own if you have it):

• Ice Axe
• Crampons
• Ropes
• Harness
• Helmet
• All climbing-specific equipment (trad gear, belay devices, carabiners etc).
• Snow anchor equipment

Location:

• Either Bright or near Mt Hotham. The final location depends on the snow conditions and will be communicated to participants closer to the course date.

Times:

• Aim to be learning from 9am to 4pm each day.

The course fee does not cover:

• Transport to/from Melbourne, including parking fees on location
• Food
• Accommodation

Note on accommodation: 

• We have a contact in Bright where a few beds are available for $50 per night and ground accommodation (bring sleeping bag and mattress) is available for $20 per night.