Agenda

Due to variable ice conditions, weather and participant’s goals, it is impossible to provide an exact agenda. However, the week will likely look something like this and will be sure to include as much climbing as you can handle!

Day 1 – We will start with a full day of climbing at one of the local single pitch crags. This allows us to focus on movement techniques and start learning some new skills while getting to know each other!

Day 2 – Mixed climbing day! We will spend the day at a drytooling crag with lots of routes of varying difficulties. Mixed climbing is a fun part of the sport and is an excellent way to improve many of your ice climbing skills such as swapping hands on the axes, relaxing your grip, precision footwork, balance and much more. Most participants notice a significant improvement in their ice climbing technique after this day! There will also be the opportunity to do some leading for anyone who is feeling ready.

Day 3 – Lead climbing skills! We will head to a different single pitch area and spend the day learning and practicing lead climbing skills. Initially there are a number of drills we will do on top-rope in order to safely practice the skills required for leading. Deciding to lead is a personal decision and you will not be pressured to do anything you are uncomfortable with. However, if you are keen to lead and are looking solid we will get you leading as soon as you are ready! Practicing the lead climbing skills will also make you more efficient at top-roping and following on ice.

Day 4 – Multipitch climbing skills! As we climb all day we will work on anchor building, belaying from above, multipitch rapelling, rope handling, half rope techniques and other skills for multipitch ice climbing. Those who are ready to do some leading will have more opportunities to do so and those who don’t will still have lots of turns to take charge with the other skills.

Day 5 – Steep ice & mixed climbing! For our final day, everyone will have the chance to push their technical abilities on a number of steep ice and mixed climbs at yet another world class ice climbing venue! This will also be your chance to review the other skills learned throughout the week and to climb until you can no longer lift your ice axes!