Ski Mountaineering rope Work Primer
Fall ’24
Programs are 6:00pm-8:30pm and are held in Lyons at Wildcat Mountaineering.
Program Basics
Come out for an evening discussion of theory, gear selection, and introductions to simple technical systems.
These programs are a great opportunity to gain an introduction or refresh your skills as a more experienced operator. It’s also a great chance to meet like-minded skiers in the area.
In skiing, the whole point of using a rope is to rely on it as little as possible so you can ski as much as possible. However, ropes can be tricky to use, and if you don’t have a background in climbing, it’s really hard to be efficient and effective. It’s more than just tying knots and rigging rappels—learning how to stow and coil ropes without them getting tangled is often underappreciated.
In addition to introducing some techniques, a big part of the ground school offering is to help you understand the big picture and all the skill sets involved in being successful in ski mountaineering. I hope you will come away with a better idea of how to make a solid plan and develop realistic timeframes to meet your goals.
Technical Skills
- Introductions/Teamwork in the Mountains
- Overview of Ski Mountaineering Theory
- Discussion of Equipment Selection
- Introduction to Basic Technical Systems
- Practice with Technical Skills
Please bring with as much of the following list as possible. No problem if you dont have anything I will bring extras and we will spend some time discussing equipment selection as well if you are looking to acquire new gear.
- Harness
- 3 HMS Locking Carabiners
- Double length sling
- ATC
- Prussic Loop
- Ski Mountaineering Backpack
While these are not required it will improve learning outcomes to arrive knowing how to tie:
- Overhand on a bight
- Clove hitch
- Munter hitch
- ‘Autoblock’ friction hitch
Logistics
Interested in Field Sessions?
Check out the two day field seminar.