Introduction to Winter/Mixed climbing is designed to teach the fundamental skills required to safely lead climb during the winter months on routes consisting of rock & ice. Instruction includes use of ice tools & crampons on rock, proper selection & placement of protection, anchor building & rappelling. To the extent practical, students will be allowed to progress at their own pace. Course graduates are eligible to participate in Intermediate Winter Climbs. The course consists of 1 day & 1 weekend field trip. ELIGIBILITY: The course is open to any Mountaineers Club member who is either a Basic graduate or has equivalent experience, a Leading on Rock (Crags) graduate or student and an Alpine Ice graduate or student. Selection of applicants will be at the discretion of the committee members.

We will practice climbing in the mixed environment on both rock and ice (hopefully)using crampons and ice tools. We will bivy at nite with only the items in our day packs. Next day we will find additional mixed climbing opportunities, practice pounding pitons, and discuss winter mountaineering challenges. You may opt to meet at 0730 at the Renaissance Cafe for bfst.