Mount Baker
Two Day - Crevasse Rescue Course
Program Overview:
Our crevasse rescue course is a must-have for any adventurer seeking to explore mountainous terrain safely. You will learn crucial skills to save yourself or a team member if they fall into a crevasse. Our experienced guides will teach you rope and anchor systems, pulley systems, and other specialized techniques that may mean the difference between life and death in a high-altitude emergency. You will practice these skills in a simulated environment, receiving feedback and personalized attention from our instructors.
Itinerary:
Day 0:
Zoom chat which addresses needed equipment, necessary training, and any other topics of interest before going into the course.
Day 1:
Meet at the trailhead and hike to high camp
Lunch at high camp and introduction to mountaineering gear
Practice holding and self-arrest techniques
Crevasse rescue theory and demonstration
Dinner and discussion of the day's activities
Day 2:
Breakfast and preparation for glacier travel
Introduction to rope teams and glacier travel
Crevasse rescue practice with rope team
Lunch and discussion of the morning's activities
Advanced crevasse rescue techniques and self rescue
Return to high camp, pack up, and hike out.
Curriculum:
This two-day crevasse rescue course covers navigation on glaciers, learning how to travel properly roped up, and identifying crevasse hazards. Participants will learn and practice basic techniques for self-arrest, rope team travel, and hauling systems to extricate individuals from crevasses as well as advanced rigging and rescue techniques. The course also includes a review of snow anchors, knots, belaying, and risk management. Students will have practical sessions to simulate rescuing a team from a crevasse and applying the necessary techniques. The objective of the course is to equip participants with the requisite skills to readily tackle crevasse-ridden winter terrain.
Costs:
One Person:
$500 $400
A non-refundable deposit of 30% is due to reserve the course.
Price Includes:
Tents
Group Climbing Equipment (Tents, Stoves, Rope, etc.)
Guide Services
Food in the Mountains
Price does not Include:
Airfare
Transportation
Hotel Accommodation
Restaurants in town
Personal Equipment (Available for Rent)
Travel Insurance with Trip Cancellation, Medical and Evacuation Policy
Guide Gratuities
Gear Rental and Advance Preparation:
As we gear up for this experience, you must come prepared with the right equipment to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey.
Below is a detailed list of the gear and clothing items you'll need to bring. While we offer gear rental services for items listed as “rent”, there are a few critical pieces that you will need in advance. This will allow us to tailor our preparations to your needs and ensure a seamless experience.
Clothing and Accessories:
Warm Hat: Essential for cold summit temperatures.
Buff: Versatile for various weather conditions.
Baseball Cap: Protects your face from the sun's rays.
Rent - Glacier Glasses (Category 4 Required): Shield your eyes from intense snow glare.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm (SPF 30+): Guard against harsh UV rays.
Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for navigating in low-light conditions.
Rent - Helmet: Provides crucial head protection.
Base Layers: Lightweight, sun-protective clothing.
Softshell Jacket: Wind-resistant and breathable.
Hardshell Jacket: Waterproof and breathable for unpredictable weather.
Rent - Down Jacket: Ensures warmth during colder periods.
Lightweight Gloves: For dexterity during intricate tasks.
Heavyweight Gloves: Keep your hands warm in freezing temperatures.
Baselayer Bottoms: Additional warmth for the lower body.
Softshell Pants: Ideal for variable weather conditions.
Hardshell Pants: Waterproof protection against rain and snow.
2 Pairs of Medium Socks: Moisture-wicking for comfort.
1 Pair of Heavy-weight Socks: Extra warmth for colder days.
Optional - Gaiters: Keep snow, debris, and moisture out of your boots.
Sleeping and Shelter:
Rent - Sleeping Bag (0-20 degrees): Ensures a warm and comfortable night's sleep.
Rent - Sleeping Pad (Both Foam Pad and Inflatable): Essential for sleeping on snow.
Rent - Backpack: Suitable for carrying personal items and essentials.
Climbing Gear:
Rent - Ice Axe
Rent - Crampons
Rent - Trekking Pole: Aids stability and balance during ascents and descents.
Rent - Harness: Essential for mountaineering safety.
2 Locking Carabiners and 1 Non-locking Carabiner
Rent - Mountaineering Boots
Safety and Hygiene:
Rent - Ursack: Secure food storage to prevent wildlife interactions.
Wag Bags - Waste Disposal
Water Bottles (Two 1L Nalgenes)
Small First Aid Kit, Bowl, Spoon, and Earplugs
While you can rent most of the gear from us, please note that we recommend bringing your own clothing layers. These items play a crucial role in your comfort and safety, and having the right fit is essential. If you're renting gear from us, please let us know to ensure availability.
Please reach out to us if you have any questions or require assistance with gear sizing.
Access the Alpine holds a Temporary Use Permit within Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Mt. Baker Ranger District
“In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination: write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD).”
