Alpine Rock Course

This course teaches alpine rock skills and techniques tailored to committing alpine rock objectives in the Pacific Northwest.  It is designed for climbers who wish to pursue Grade IV and V alpine rock routes, such as the Complete North Ridge of Mt. Stuart, Backbone Ridge on Dragontail Peak, and the NE Buttress on Slesse.

The course is well suited for climbers  with experience on ice, snow, and especially rock.  Students need to be comfortable leading crag routes 5.8 trad or higher, and have completed the Rock Modules or possess equivalent experience.  Alpine climbing and scrambling experience is necessary. Additional consideration is given to those with a good history of volunteerism.

Students learn and apply new skills at five evening sessions at the Program Center, followed by trips to Squamish, Index,  Washington Pass, and other mountains in the Cascades. Students graduate by planning and executing a three Grade IV or V alpine rock climbs and by attending the Self Rescue Course.  Crag climbs such as a Angel Crest in Squamish or Outer Space on Snow Creek wall do not count towards graduation.