This three-day alpine training course is designed for individuals who wish to gain as much knowledge as possible in a short period of time in order to travel independently in glaciated terrain later on.
This extended weekend covers the following main skills: correct crampon technique, glacier rope travel, various protection and belay systems, building secure snow and ice anchors, and crevasse rescue.
The long ascent to the Schwarzenstein Hut counts as an additional training day. Along the way, we will practice glacier roping and movement with crampons while ascending and descending across different gradients.
In the following days, a short distance from the hut brings us to the glaciated playground where we will perform our exercises. Our mountain guides will ensure that we cover all the practical and theoretical content. Both Schwarzenstein and the nearby Western Floitenspitze offer excellent terrain for instructional tours.
Course content:
- Building belay anchors in snow and ice
- Traveling on snow and ice slopes with proper protection techniques
- Crevasse rescue systems
- Self-rescue techniques
- Glacier science and hazard awareness
- Navigation and orientation
- Tour planning
- Equipment knowledge
- And more
Program Overview:
Day 1: Meet at 7:30 a.m. in St. Johann im Ahrntal for a gear check.
Ascent to Schwarzenstein Hut, where training begins (glacier rope travel, crampon technique, and snow and ice anchor building). Evening tour planning session.
Day 2: Training ascent of Schwarzenstein (11,083 ft). We will practice glacier skills, rope travel, and protection on snow and ice, as well as short-rope technique on ridges and block terrain. In the afternoon, there will be self-arrest and crevasse rescue practice. In the evening, there will be a material and navigation session.
Day 3: If desired, we can climb the nearby Westliche Floitenspitze at sunrise, followed by breakfast at the hut. Near the hut, we will focus on crevasse rescue training, including sliding tests, crevasse fall scenarios, and crevasse rescue techniques. In the afternoon, we will begin the descent via the Trippachkees, where there are several crevasses that provide excellent opportunities to practice and repeat the techniques learned.