Introduction to Water Ice climbing

This is a single-pitch intro course and is targeted for applicants who do have some alpine ice experience but never had the opportunity to climb water ice and are interested to get introduced to it. The course will teach the techniques needed for safe and effective movement on water ice.   By the end of this course, students will build up fundamental skills and techique for climbing in the water ice environment (WI3/4/4+ on top rope). 

To apply please click Apply button and fill out the application form which will be open  8/25- 9/5.  Selected applicants will be confirmed  by 9/15. Those accepted in the course will have to pay the course fee during 10/1-10/7 registration window.

NO REFUNDS AFTER 10/14/2025.

All participants are expected to attend 3 activities associated with the course: 

- one virtual session / lecture to discuss logistics, gear, training plan (10/14/2025)

-  one evening activity at Seattle Program Center to discuss technique and simulate some climbing on the foam wall (11/18/2025)

- 3 full days of climbing in Bozeman, Montana (1/21-1/23, 2026)

All participants are expected to arrive in Bozeman at least the evening before the course  and not plan to leave until the morning after the course.

Ice climbing specific training plan to prepare for ice climbing will be sent out. The better shape you're in, the more enjoyable water ice climbing experience will be.

• The course fee includes instruction from experienced Water Ice Alpine Ambassadors, ropes, anchors gear
• The course fee does NOT include transportation to / from Bozeman, lodging, car rental in Bozeman, meals. Each participant is financially responsible for all the travel, lodging and meals expenses. The leader will coordinate / make housing rescommendations for everyone but participants are responssible for their own expenses. 
• If you are qualified but have financial constraints, please consider applying for a scholarship from the Mountaineers 
•  The interest is expected to be high for this course. We might end up receiving many more applicants than spots. Volunteering history with the Mountaineers  is viewed extremely favorably.