Technical Alpine Icefalls

This ice climbing course is for the more experienced ice climber who wants to make the most of a winter week of ice climbing in the Alps. It comprises six full days of top-quality ice climbing in such celebrated venues as Kandersteg and Cogne, as well as more remote valleys like Adelboden, Lenk and the Val de Bagnes. We steer clear of overcrowded icefall venues (such as some of those in the Chamonix valley) to give a safer, more aesthetic and adventurous ice climbing experience.

To get the most from the course, participants should have had experience of following ice routes of grade IV standard as a minimum. If you don't already climb at this grade, you can swiftly get there by taking our 'Classic Alpine Icafalls' course as preparation.

The aim of the course is to build on your technical skills and ice climbing ability while enjoying classic grade IV and V icefalls in at least two different venues. To achieve this we give continuous expert instruction throughout the week, looking at your climbing technique in detail and trying to ensure that you climb as well and as efficiently as you can. We adapt the course so that everyone has the right level of challenge. Keen, fit people will have the opportunity to follow routes at grade VI (which have sustained vertical sections) and everybody on the course will greatly increase their ice climbing experience. There are opportunies to learn lead climbing skills for people whose goal is to climb independently.

We operate in small teams and travel by private car, giving us great flexibility to climb where the ice is best and to visit areas/routes which are new to you even if you have joined us many times before. It can be critical whether we head north to the Oberland or to more southern areas - this flexibility, backed by the depth of knowledge of the ISM guides, is the key to giving you a great ice climbing week which won't be ruined by bad weather or poor ice conditions in any particular area.

Accommodation throughout the course is in comfortable hotels with excellent, plentiful food, helping us to relax, refresh and rest well each night to be ready for another full day on the ice.

Technical Skills covered: As on the 'Classic Alpine Icefalls' course, during the climbing programme we review all important skills including: rapid ice screw placement and removal, racking equipment for steep ice, double rope technique, setting up stances and belays, retreating safely from an ice climb, assessing ice conditions, mixed-climbing techniques and adapting technique for higher-grade climbing.

With a 2:1 climbing ratio we can make up well-matched teams and accommodate each individual's needs and preferences (including the opportunity to lead-climb on suitable terrain).

On your booking form please mention any ice climbing venues where you have climbed previously. The final plan for the week will take account of your prior experience, the weather, and prevailing conditions in the mountains.

Climbing Standard and Fitness
Ability to follow ice routes of grade IV standard and a desire to attempt more challenging climbs led by the guide. Although approaches to the climbs are relatively short, general fitness is important. Icefall climbing at this standard requires good upper body strength such as would be gained by regular rock climbing or regular visits to an indoor climbing wall / gym. Indoor ice climbing facilities such as Vertical Chill (at Ellis Brigham's London Covent Garden store) can offer very effective training for this course.

Our favourite venues for Winter Ice courses

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