This 2 day advanced course will set you on the path of scrambling success!
Scrambling can be thought of as non-technical climbing in the sense that with careful route finding and good technique ropes and other technical equipment are not required to safely ascend high peaks.
This course will teach you the required skills and techniques required to ascend many peaks and is a natural progression from hiking.
Prior experience hiking is required for this course.
Itinerary: (Can vary slightly depending on the destination.)
Day 1: We will meet up at 9am and then head up to a local scrambling venue where we will spend the day outdoors learning and practicing skills.
Day 2: Start time will vary but generally speaking we will get an early start and head out to complete a scrambling objective in the region. We will take time to practice skills and techniques along the way. This can be a long day of up to 12 hours round trip.
Course Outline
How to pick an appropriate scramble from guidebooks or the internet for your skill level
what to pack for a day of scrambling
How to scramble without environmental degradation (Leave no Trace)
How to recognize the difference between class three and four terrain
How to effectively route find in class three terrain
How to manage rock-fall issues
Equipment selection for scrambles
Emergency gear and preparedness
Selecting proper footwear
Dressing for the mountains
Checking weather and conditions
Environmental hazards: Lightning, animals, rockfall, snow and ice
Movement skills during ascents and descents/scrambling skills
Use of a trekking pole
Spotting skills
Pacing and rest stops
Walking in balance
Use of down pressure on handholds
Transportation:
Any regular vehicle will suffice for day 1, day 2 may require high clearance 4x4. NSM can provide 4x4 transportation for up to 4 guests.
Meals:
Lunch for the day is provided
Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions in advance
If you have food allergies it is recommended to pack your own lunch.
Equipment List
Personal Gear
Boots – 3 Season Mountaineering boots or study hiking boots. Waterproof and crampon compatible preffered. NSM can provide boots if required. (Included - limited availability so let us know well ahead of time your shoe size!)
Summit-pack – 20-40 litre capacity (NSM can provide this if you need - Included)
Outer layer jacket with hood – Gore-Tex style
Lightweight outer layer waterproof pants – Gore-Tex style
Lightweight thermal layers – top & bottom, Polypro, Icebreaker, etc.
Climbing/hiking pants – nylon, fleece, Schoeller, etc. (1 pair)
Gloves (medium weight) – wool or poly-pro (1 pair)
Waterproof gloves or mitts (gloves work best) (1 pairs)
Warm parka/jacket – down, synthetic, fleece or pile (1)
Sweater or vest – wool, synthetic, fleece or down (1)
Socks – wool or synthetic blend
Toque/warm hat – wool or fleece (1)
Sunglasses – UV block with good eye coverage (1pr)
Headlamp with new batteries
Personal 1st aid (blister kit, toothbrush, blister kit, toilet paper, etc.)
Misc. personal items (camera, journal, etc.)
Sunscreen – minimum spf45
Water bottles/hydration system – minimum 1 litres
Walking pole(s) – Optional but helpful for the approach/descent
Gaiters (1 pair) – Optional if built-in paint gaiters or boot gaiters
Communal equipment (supplied by NSM as required):
Compass and map
GPS
Rope, rock, snow or ice protection
Emergency shelter
First aid kit
Satellite communication device
VHF radio
Technical equipment (supplied by NSM if required)
Ice axe and technical climbing tool
Climbing harness – seat harness only
Helmet
3 locking carabineers
1x120cm sewn sling
1 x belay/rappel device
Crampons – General Mountaineering style adjusted to your boots (1 pair)
Season and availability:
Late May to early October.
Price: (Not including 5% GST)
2 day course: $405.00 per guest