This course is for BCMC members (or referred participants) who are ice climbers wanting to build their knowledge of suitable anchor building techniques on ice or mixed terrain.  No previous ice climbing experience required, but you must know how to belay competently; previous climbing experience and knowledge of basic knots and rope handling are highly recommended.  

We will need ice tools, though we should be able to share tools for those people who don't have access to them.  Participants will need to supply their own helmet, harness, belay device, suitable boots, and crampons with front points and, preferably, secondary points.  

This is course is an excellent follow-up to the Introduction to Ice Climbing courses being offered in January.

Base Course Fee: As this is a custom course with Mountain Skills Academy & Adventures, the overall fee for the group is $719 + GST.  I have set up pricing with MSAA of $143.80 + GST based on 5 people attending; final price per person will be determined once the number of participants is confirmed.  Group size is 8 people maximum.

To reserve your spot, please call MSAA at (604) 938-9242.  Let them know you are signing up for 'Private Ice Climbing Instruction on February 11th, 2018'

Location: Cal Cheak or Rambles**

**Note: in the event there is not adequate ice at Cal Cheak, Rambles is the anticipated alternate.  Updates will be made to confirm the exact location closer to the course date.

Course Objectives:

Ice climbing anchor building:

• How to safely and efficiently build anchors,
• Webbing vs. slings vs. cord vs. rope for your anchor setup
• Advantages and disadvantages of different climbing materials and their uses
• Setting up a safe anchor using ice screws, bolts, and natural features
• Equalizing your anchor with 2, 3, and 4 anchor points,
• Advantages and disadvantages of pre-equalized vs. self-equalizing anchors,
• Understanding about the forces applied on climbing equipment and anchor points;

Rappelling techniques on ice:

• How to rappel from the top of a climb,
• How to setup and rappel from a V-thread & A-thread anchor;
• Rope management;
• How to properly inspect your gear before & after use; 

Notes:

Cost does not include transportation to/from course areas; lift access fees (if applicable); food; or personal equipment except as noted.

You must supply your own helmet, harness, belay device, suitable boots (ski, snowboard boots or mountaineering boots), and crampons. If you don't have your own equipment, MSSA can provide ice climbing equipment (harness, helmet, crampons and axes) for $25, plus tax, or you can rent from MEC Vancouver or from other local mountain shops. MSAA may also be able to provide boot rentals for an additional cost.

Ice tools can be shared between group participants.  We will need a minimum of a set for every two participants.

On-line Registration process:

1. Click “Join this trip” on the left hand side of the page. You will be added to the Waiting List.
2. Complete your payment directly with MSAA at (604) 938-9242.  Let them know you are signing up for 'Private Ice Climbing Instruction on February 11th, 2018'. You will receive a confirmation email from MSAA once your payment is completed.
3. Forward your confirmation email to the trip organizer. You will then be added to the Confirmed List. Keep an eye on your email for further information.

If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact the trip organizer.