So, you want to become a mountaineer? Or at least survive in the mountains without becoming a cautionary tale? Excellent choice. Our mountaineering courses cover all the fundamental skills you’ll need: glacier travel, movement on snow, crevasse rescue, self-care, camp craft, and more. The only question left: which course should you take?
The good news? You really can’t go wrong. But each course has its own unique flavor, so we hosted a webinar focused on our menu of mountaineering courses taught by professor Lyra Pierotti, IFMGA Guide (basically the PhD of guiding) and senior guide at Alpine Ascents. She gave a breakdown of the differences in our mountaineering courses, tips about how to prepare, and we also talked logistics as well. The full recording is below.
Additionally, here is refreshed excerpt from a blog post we did a few years ago breaking down the differences in some of our most popular courses to guide you as well.
The 6-Day Course: The Classic
Best for: Absolute beginners looking for a solid foundation in mountaineering.
Where: Mount Baker, Easton Glacier
Summit Attempt? Yes, 1
Food: You cook for yourself
What makes it special? This is our tried-and-true introduction to mountaineering. If you’re just getting started and want a straightforward, comprehensive experience, this is it.
The 8-Day Course: Train Like You Mean It
Best for: Climbers eyeing Denali or anyone who wants a serious physical challenge.
Where: Mount Rainier, Emmons Glacier
Summit Attempt? Yes, 1
Food: You cook for yourself
What makes it special? The heaviest pack weight of any of our courses (65-70 lbs+). This course is no joke—prepare to suffer, but also to build the endurance you’ll need for big peaks like Denali.
The 9-Day Course: Twice the Summits, Twice the Fun
Best for: Those who want a longer course with more variety.
Where: Mount Baker (Easton or Coleman-Deming Glacier) + Mount Rainier (Disappointment Cleaver)
Summit Attempt? Yes, 2 total
Food: You cook for yourself on Baker; guides cook breakfast and dinner on Rainier
What makes it special? A two-for-one deal! Climb Baker, take a hotel break (hot shower, anyone?), then tackle Rainier. Pack weight lightens up significantly for the Rainier portion.
The 10-Day Course: A Spicier Challenge
Best for: Those who want to add ice climbing to their mountaineering skillset.
Where: Mount Baker (Coleman-Deming) + Mount Rainier (Kautz Glacier)
Summit Attempt? Yes, 2 total
Food: You cook for yourself on Baker; guides cook breakfast and dinner on Rainier
What makes it special? The Kautz route is significantly more technical, with steep snow and ice climbing up to 50 degrees.
The 13-Day Course: The Cascades Grand Tour
Best for: Aspiring alpinists who want to do it all—mountaineering, rock climbing, and alpine climbing.
Where: Multiple venues, including Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, Sahale, Washington Pass, and more.
Summit Attempt? Many! Glaciated peaks, single-pitch rock, multi-pitch alpine climbs—you name it.
Food: You cook for yourself
What makes it special? The ultimate skills sampler. You’ll go from climbing glaciers to tackling alpine rock routes, all while exploring some of the best climbing areas in Washington. Oh, and there might be a shower at some point.
Denali Prep: You Better Like Shoveling
Best for: Those training for Denali or looking to suffer in harsh winter conditions.
Where: Mount Rainier, Paradise to Camp Muir corridor
Summit Attempt? None (or highly unlikely)
Food: You cook for yourself
What makes it special? Think whiteout navigation, sled hauling, and camping in extreme cold. If you dream of Denali, this is the best way to prepare for the reality of climbing in the Alaska Range.
The 8-Day Alaska Course: The Big One
Best for: Those who want to experience expedition-style climbing in the Alaska Range.
Where: Southeast Fork of the Kahiltna Glacier, Alaska
Summit Attempt? Potential peaks include Mt. Francis, Kahiltna Dome, or Control Tower
Food: You cook for yourself
What makes it special? Fly in by bush plane, set up a base camp on a glacier, and explore the vastness of Alaska. Big crevasses, endless snowfields, and some of the most breathtaking scenery on the planet. If you have the time, do it—Alaska is magic.
Which Course is Right for You?
If you’re still unsure, ask yourself
Do I want the basics, or am I looking for something more advanced? Start with the 6-Day for an introduction or the 9/10-Day for additional challenge and a second summit attempt.
Do I want to train for Denali? The 8-Day Rainier course is a great option. If you want to refine your skills during the winter before your Denali climb, take a Denali Prep to put all the pieces together.
Do I want to mix mountaineering with rock climbing? Go for the 13-Day Grand Tour or the 8-Day Cascades Intermediate course.
Do I want the ultimate adventure? The 8-Day Alaska course wins for sheer epicness.
Whatever you choose, you’ll walk away with invaluable skills, incredible memories, and possibly a newfound appreciation for dry socks. See you in the mountains!
