Alpine Climbing Kickstart

This module lays the foundation for understanding what alpine climbing is and how it differs from mountaineering. You’ll learn essential terminology, how conditions change throughout the year, how weather and grading systems affect objectives, and how classic routes come together in real-world contexts.

Staying warm, dry, and efficient is critical in the alpine, and this module breaks down how to build a functional clothing system from head to toe. You’ll learn how each layer works, how to adapt clothing choices to changing conditions, and how small decisions can have big impacts on comfort and safety.

This module introduces the core equipment used in alpine climbing and how it all fits together as a system. You’ll learn proper selection, fit, and use of items like helmets, harnesses, crampons, ice axes, packs, and protection, with an emphasis on efficiency and avoiding common beginner mistakes.

Here you’ll build the rope skills that form the backbone of alpine movement and safety. The module covers essential knots, tying in, communication, anchor attachment, and rappel setup, focusing on clean systems you can execute confidently in real terrain.

Efficiency matters in the alpine, and this module focuses on small skills that prevent delays, dropped gear, and unnecessary stress. You’ll learn practical techniques for managing crampons, slings, belay devices, and ice tools so your systems stay simple and reliable.

This module zooms out to cover preparation beyond technical skills. You’ll explore glacier travel basics, fitness and fueling, hut etiquette, and smart packing strategies to help you show up ready for long, demanding alpine days.