Contemplating the powder at the boundary line, but not sure what to make of that new foot of fresh?

Ever dream of skiing the bigger peaks?

OUR COURSES: From an introduction to backcountry ski touring, just out of the ski areas boundries to learning the skills to climb and descend glaciated peaks, our trips offer something for everyone. The program gives the skiers and boarders all the tools and skills to make good decisions in the backcountry, whether that consists of steep and deep backcountry descents or just dropping over the backside of your favorite resort. Our goal is to develop safe, self-reliant ski-mountaineers ready to climb and ski locally or in the great ranges of the world. Participants will be given an active role, to have a chance to test their judgment while under the instructors’ guidance. And of course, plenty of turns will be had by all!

TRIP LOCATIONS: Classic descents & traverses will be made on mountains like Adams, Baker, Forbidden, Shuksan, Sahale, Spearhead and others. Subjects, such as terrain evaluation, detailed tour planning, and more will be taught. From Level I and II Avalanche Awareness to ski descents on the high peaks of North America and Europe, we can take you one step closer to fulfilling your “Valdisease."

WHY MOUNTAIN MADNESS' SKI & AVALANCHE PROGRAM?

World Class Guides and AIARE* Curriculum

Our Avalanche Instructors have over forty years of cumulative experience in professional snow safety and ski guiding around the world. Our staff has been certified or trained by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE), which has developed courses taken by professional ski patrollers, mountain guides, and National Park and U.S. Forest Service Field Staff.

I learned a lot and I have a lot more respect for avalanche danger!! Elena G.

Experienced Instructors

Matt Schonwald: Mountain Madness North America Program Director, AMGA Certified Ski-Mountaineering Guide, Professional Member of the American Avalanche Association. He holds Level 3 Avalanche certification, is a CAATS Level 1 certified, and has worked as a Professional Ski Patrol and Avalanche Control Specialist. Matt has spent the last 20 years climbing and skiing in Europe, Asia, and the Americas and has ski guided in the Cascades, Alaska, Antarctica, Canada, and Europe.

Jay Bright: Course Director, has 15 years Professional Ski Patrol/Avalanche Control Specialist, is AIARE Level 3 Certified, and an Outdoor Emergency Care Instructor. Jay has spent the last 15 years as a professional ski patroller in the Northwest and has guided for 12 years on the rivers of the Northwest.

Mason Stafford: Lead Instructor, is an AMGA Certified Ski Mountaineering Guide, Professional Avalanche Forecaster, Professional Member of the American Avalanche Association., Level 3 Avalanche certified, CAATS Level 1 certified, and has worked as a Professional Ski Patrol and Avalanche Control Specialist. . Mason has ski guided in Alaska, Russia, Canada, and the Cascades. Mason also works as a mountain guide throughout the world.

*AIARE was formed to address the lack of a nationally recognized curriculum for avalanche education in the USA. There are many avalanche courses and programs available but many course providers operate according to their own personal beliefs and ideas. AIARE standards and guidelines adhere to existing national and international standards such as those developed by the American Avalanche Association and the Canadian Avalanche Association.

The end result is that our instructors have obtained the highest standards and teach a curriculum developed from the highest standards.

INTRODUCTION TO SKI TOURING


This is a complete introduction to backcountry touring. Enjoying the best combination of snow and weather in Washington, we take three days to learn how to develop tour plans, select safe terrain for uphill and downhill travel, and apply appropriate travel techniques. This course gives us time to get more in-depth, covering the basics as well as managing bigger and more complex terrain, identifying “decision points,” backcountry and powder skiing technique, and rescue scenarios. Participants will be given an active role, to have a chance to test their judgment while under the instructors’ guidance. And of course, plenty of turns will be had by all!

Student/Instructor Ratio: 5:1

Intermediate ski or boarding ability required.

2008 COURSE DATES:

January 19-21 & February 1-3

Cost: $425

Download Equipment List

Course curriculum includes:

• Care and use skins
  
• Skinning technique
  
• Use of boot and binding
  
• Transceiver check (group/independent)
  
• Walking-pole position
  
• Kick turns, A V A turn
  
• Terrain management (safe, efficient, fast)
  
• Terrain management w/ uphill track
  
• Terrain management downhill
  
• Simple transceiver search
  
• In-depth transceiver search
  
• Time plan on micro level
  
• Map work/compass technique-bearings
  
• Munter 3x3
  
• Snow stability/aspects
  
• Test Profile
  

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ADVANCED SKI TOURING


This is the next stage toward ski mountaineering. We step up the program, pushing into the steeps and what it takes to get in out of there safely. Enjoying the best combination of snow and weather in Washington we take three days to learn how to develop tour plans, select safe terrain for uphill and downhill travel, and apply appropriate travel techniques. This three day course gives us time to get more in depth, covering more advanced skills as well as managing bigger and more complex terrain, identifying “decision points”, backcountry and powder skiing technique, and rescue scenarios. Participants will be given an active role, to have a chance to test their judgment while under the instructors’ guidance. And of course, plenty of turns will be had by all!

Student/Instructor Ratio: 5:1

Advanced ski or boarding ability required.

2008 COURSE DATES:

February 23-25 March 22-24

Cost: $425

Download Equipment List

Course curriculum includes:

• Steep snow climbing techniques
  
• Steep skinning technique
  
• Steep skiing technique
  
• Belay and rappel techniques
  
• Walking-pole position
  
• Kick turns, A V A turn
  
• Terrain management (safe, efficient, fast)
  
• Terrain management w/ uphill track
  
• Terrain management downhill
  
• Simple transceiver search
  
• In-depth transceiver search
  
• Time plan on micro level
  
• Map work/compass technique-bearings
  
• Munter 3x3
  
• Snow stability/aspects
  
• Test Profile
  

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INTRO TO SKI MOUNTAINEERING

This popular course is designed for individuals aspiring to learn the fundamental skills of snow, ice, glacier, climbing techniques, and the application of these skills toward the ascent and glisse-descent of major glaciated mountains. Our goal is to develop safe, self-reliant ski-mountaineers ready to climb and ski locally or in the great ranges of the world. This course is truly an excellent foundation for any skier seeking independence in the alpine arena.

Set in a spectacular environment that provides abundant learning opportunities, this comprehensive course is truly rewarding. The three days take place in the North Cascades where active glaciers, volcanic peaks, and breathtaking views create the ideal learning environment. A summit attempt on the last day of the course gives you the chance to put your newly developed skills to the test.

Student/Instructor Ratio: 5:1

2008 COURSE DATES:

Dates: April 12-14 & May 3-5

Cost: $695

Download Equipment List

Course curriculum includes:

• Terrain management (safe, efficient, fast)
  
• Terrain management w/uphill track
  
• Terrain management downhill
  
• Snow climbing, ice axe positioning, and moving in balance
  
• Self arrest techniques
  
• Snow and ice anchor selection, construction, and equalization
  
• Snow climbing and crampon techniques
  
• Prussiking and team crevasse rescue practice
  
• Rappelling and rope management
  
• Glaciology and crevasse pattern prediction
  
• Navigation using maps, altimeters, and compasses
  
• Roped glacier travel and route finding through crevassed areas
  
• Mountain weather, alpine ecology, hazard assessment, and Leave No Trace Ethics
  

COST INCLUDES: Ground transportation, all meals while on the mountain, tents, stoves, cook kits, group climbing equipment, and guide services.

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airfare, transportation within Seattle, hotel accommodations, restaurant meals, gratuities for guides, and all personal items. A detailed equipment list will be sent to all participants.

COURSE ITINERARY:

Day 1: 6:30am orientation. After an initial meeting and equipment check, we drive from Seattle to the trailhead and begin our hike to base camp. This approach is very strenuous and can take from 4 - 6 hours depending upon the particular approach and the fitness of the group. (This is where all of your training pays off!) You'll skin through ancient forests and snow covered alpine meadows, enroute to our base camp. After establishing our camp, the remainder of the day will focus on the skills necessary for the proper use of an ice axe, traveling in balance, self-belay, self-arrest, placing various types of snow protection for use in the construction of snow anchors, as well as belay techniques. We will cap the day with a short evening ski run before dinner.

Day 2: You will begin the day by learning crampon use and climbing steeper snow. We then focus on the skills required for safe and efficient glacier travel including roped travel and self-rescue (prussiking) techniques. This will include the means for each team member to correctly tie into the rope including the proper spacing of climbers based on the number of team members. We will cover the difference in traveling with skis versus snowshoes or crampons, ie when you need to rope up. After learning the proper techniques for traveling as a rope team, we will then make a short glacial "tour", enabling us to practice and comprehend the day's lessons. We follow that lesson up with a few runs before skiing back to camp. Discussions late in the day will focus on navigation with the use of map and compass.

Day 3: After a pre-dawn wake-up and a quick breakfast, we climb our way toward the summit. Today your group will apply the skills they have been practicing toward our ascent of a major glaciated peak. Depending on conditions and the pace of your group, it will take from five to eight hours to reach the summit. After enjoying the views and a snack, and absorbing your accomplishments, students will navigate and lead their team back to high camp, enjoying a well-earned glisse descent. We will then break camp, pack up our gear, and head back to the trailhead.

NOTE ON ITINERARY: Although we do our best to follow the schedule listed, the very nature of climbing in an alpine environment requires flexibility. This itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, and other reasons beyond our control.

QUALIFICATIONS: Advanced alpine, telemark or snowboarding ability required. Previous ski touring experience is required, but previous mountaineering experience is not required. However, this trip is rated as strenuous and we cannot overemphasize the importance of physical conditioning. By getting your heart, lungs, and legs in top physical condition, you can focus on learning while enjoying the high mountain environment. It is recommended that you have some camping and hiking experience prior to this trip. Because everyone is required to carry a share of the group’s equipment, be prepared to carry as much as 50 lbs. to base camp.

WEATHER: Like all mountain ranges, the weather in the Cascades is un-predictable and can roll in at any time limiting the productivity of your trip. Mountain Madness has no control over this weather and therefore last minute decisions are sometimes made to save the trip from being completely cancelled. However, sometimes waiting for the weather to pass is the best plan of action and it is not unusual to sit in the rain for a few days. It is also possible that the rain may not clear up and traveling to the east side of the mountains to go ski mountaineering is the best plan.

NEXT STEPS: After completion of this trip, you may want to build upon your new skills and participate in a more advanced expedition. The following opportunities are logical next steps that will help you advance your abilities, or at least provide you with another exciting recreational adventure. For more information about these trips, please refer to the Northwest brochure, visit our website www.mountainmadness.com or call 800-328-5925.

Ptarmigan Traverse
Spearhead Traverse
Mt. Elbrus Summit and Ski/Snowboard Descent
Mt Baker Descent
Mt Adams Descent
La Grave Adventure Week
Haute Route

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COULOIRS TO BARS – ADVENTURE SKIING IN LA GRAVE, FRANCE

Doug Coombs, the legendary ski-mountaineer, had a list of “Couloirs to Bars” and most of them were in la Grave where he made his second home because of the freedom to ski where you want, when you want. With one of the highest lift access vertical at 7,000 feet, La Grave is one of the world great destinations for adventure skiing without a helicopter.

Set in the spectacular environment of La Grave, you will spend six days riding and touring off of the Telepherique Ecrin in the Parc National Des Ecrins where active glaciers, high alpine peaks, and breathtaking views create the ideal adventure. With dozens of couloirs and ski stations within an hour, there is no shortage of skiing.

Student/Instructor Ratio: 4:1

2008 DATES
Dates: (6 Days): February 17-22, 24-29; March 2-7, 9-14, 16-21, 23-28
Cost: $2100
,
CUSTOM 6 Days
Cost: 1:1= $3,600, 2:1= $2,500, 3:1=$2,200, 4:1= $2,000


COST INCLUDES: Hotel accommodations, ground transportation, group climbing and avalanche equipment, and guide services.

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airfare, ground transportation to and from Grenoble, Lift passes(La Grave is 32€ low season 35€ high season), Off-Piste Insurance (Recommended), restaurant meals outside your hotel, gratuities for guides, and all personal items. A detailed equipment list will be sent to all participants.

ITINERARY:

Day 1: Fly from home.

Day 2: 7:30 orientation. After an initial meeting and equipment check, we walk over and ride the chair to the top of the Girouse Glacier. We will ski onto the glacier to focus on the skills necessary for skiing in avalanche terrain and go over the use of avalanche beacons, probes and shovels. We will cap the day with several long ski runs before returning to La Grave.

Day 3-6: We will adjust to conditions and ski some of the legendary runs down the many couloirs and faces of La Meije. We will try to find the best snow, which may have driving to one of the dozen nearby ski stations in search for untracked powder!

Other options are ski touring and ice climbing if the legs are getting tired after skiing 14,000-20,000 a day!

Day 7: We will enjoy a final day of skiing and wrap up the trip with a celebratory dinner!

Day 8:.Transfer to the airport and fly home.

NOTE ON ITINERARY: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to weather, route conditions, and other reasons beyond our control. For more information on La Grave go to http://www.globaladventures.net.

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PTARMIGAN TRAVERSE, NORTH CASCADES, WA

This majestic ski tour, considered the best in the Cascade Range, is the oldest and most famous high route in the Northwest. Four members of the Ptarmigan Climbing Club made the first crossing of this route in July 1938. For thirteen days, Calder Bressler, Bill Cox, Ray Clough and Tom Myers pioneered the entire crest route from Dome Peak to Cascade Pass and made many first ascents. Since the Ptarmigans never published their story, how they made their journey and what they saw remained a mystery, we do know that their route covered the Cascade Crest from Cascade Pass, in North Cascade National Park, to a valley just north of Glacier Peak, in the Glacier Peak Wilderness area, traveling over a series of ridges, cirques, and glaciers.

For skiers this trip offers numerous descent opportunities, all in an incredible wilderness setting. Ski descents of Dome and Sinister on the Chickamin Glacier offer thousands of feet of wild alpine skiing in an unbelievable setting. This is a serious undertaking and applicants must be advanced skiers and able to carry at least 30-40 lbs. while skiing. Prerequisites: Level 1 avalanche course and a ski-mountaineering course.

Course curriculum includes:

• Terrain management with up hill track
  
• Terrain management downhill
  
• Snow climbing, ice axe positioning, and moving in balance
  
• Glaciology and crevasse pattern prediction
  
• Navigation using maps, altimeters, and compasses
  
• Roped glacier travel and route finding through crevassed areas
  
• Mountain weather, alpine ecology, hazard assessment, and Leave No Trace Ethics
  

Date: May 24 - 28

Cost: $875 Student/Instructor Ratio: 4:1

COST INCLUDES: Ground transportation between Seattle and the trailhead, all meals while on the mountain, tents, stoves, cook kits, group climbing equipment, and guide services.

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airfare, transportation within Seattle, restaurant meals, gratuities for guides, and all personal items. A detailed equipment list will be sent to all participants.

ITINERARY:

Day 1: Park between mile 19&21 on Cascade River Road and start hiking and skinning toward Cascade Pass. Depending on the time of day and avalanche conditions, we will travel to Cascade Pass at 5400’ and try to continue up and over Cache Col and camp at Kool Aid Lake.

Day 2: Begin the day touring up the Red Ledges and dropping down on the Middle Cascade Glacier. Skin up the glacier to the Spider Formidable Col with the possibility of skiing off of Spider Mountain while enroute to Yang Yang Lakes for the evening.

Day 3: Tour up the LeConte Glacier and climb and ski LeConte and Sentinel. After summiting, ski down Lizard Pass and camp at White Rocks Lake.

Day 4: Skin up the Chickamin Glacier to climb and ski Sinister and Dome. Descend south onto Itswood Ridge and camp with view of Glacier Peak

Day 5: Hike out via Bachelor and Downey creeks to the Suaittle Rive Road.

NOTE ON ITINERARY: Although we do our best to follow the schedule listed, the very nature of climbing in an alpine environment requires flexibility. This itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, and other reasons beyond our control.

QUALIFICATIONS: Advanced alpine, telemark or snowboarding ability and previous mountaineering experience is required. This trip is rated as strenuous and we cannot overemphasize the importance of physical conditioning. By getting your heart, lungs, and legs in top physical condition, you can focus on learning while enjoying the high mountain environment. Because everyone is required to carry a share of the group’s equipment, be prepared to carry as much as 30-40 lbs. for 6-8 hours a day.

WEATHER: Like all mountain ranges, the weather in the Cascade Range is unpredictable and adverse conditions can limit the productivity of your trip. Mountain Madness has no control over these conditions and last minute decisions are sometimes made to save the trip from being completely cancelled. This may include waiting for the weather to pass as the best plan of action.

FLIGHT ARRANGMENTS: These should be made as soon as possible. We recommend Airbound 877 844 9686, ask to speak to Raoul and mention you going on a trip with Mountain Madness.

NEXT STEPS: After completion of this trip, you may want to build upon your new skills and participate in a more advanced expedition. The following opportunities are logical next steps that will help you advance your abilities, or at least provide you with another exciting recreational adventure. For more information about these trips, please refer to our Northwest brochure, visit our website www.mountainmadness.com or call 800-328-5925.

- Forbidden Tour
- Mt. Elbrus Summit and Ski/Snowboard Descent
- Mt. Baker Ski Descent
- La Grave Adventure Week
- Haute Route




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SPEARHEAD TRAVERSE, Whistler, B.C. -
Rated "Top 25 adventures of 2005!" by National Geographic Adventure Magazine


This majestic ski tour, considered the best in the Coast Range, has been named the “Haute Route of the Americas," comparable to the famous traverse between Chamonix and Zermatt in Europe. We traverse this beautiful range over 3-4 days depending on terrain and conditions. We start the tour from the backside of Blackcomb Peak at the head of Hortsman Glacier and end on the Whistler Glacier near Whistler ski area. We use Blackcomb and Whistler lifts to get in and out of each area to access incredible descents, utilizing mountaineering skills learned as we go. This is a serious undertaking and applicants must be strong intermediate skiers and able to carry at least 30-40 lbs. while skiing. Prerequisites: Level I avalanche course and a ski-mountaineering course.

Student/Instructor Ratio: 5:1

2008 DATES:

March 29-April 1

Cost: $795

Download Equipment List

COST INCLUDES: 1 night hotel accommodations, all meals while on the mountain, tents, stoves, cook kits, group climbing equipment, and guide services.

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airfare, ground transportation between Vancouver, B.C. and Whistler, transportation within Vancouver, B.C., restaurant meals, gratuities for guides, and all personal items. A detailed equipment list will be sent to all participants.

Course curriculum includes:

• Terrain management with uphill track
  
• Terrain management downhill
  
• Snow climbing, ice axe positioning, and moving in balance
  
• Glaciology and crevasse pattern prediction
  
• Navigation using maps, altimeters, and compasses
  
• Roped glacier travel and route finding through crevassed areas
  
• Mountain weather, alpine ecology, hazard assessment, and Leave No Trace Ethics.

ITINERARY:

Day 1: Meet in Whistler/Blackcomb. For those who fly to Vancouver, British Columbia, we provide a 2-hour shuttle to Whistler/Blackcomb. Upon arrival and check in to our accommodations, we will then complete a comprehensive gear review, avalanche and rescue talks with your guide. At this meeting we will discuss the full plan for our ski tour and go over any questions that you may have. All clients are asked to bring their own avalanche transceiver. Overnight Inn of Cliff Top, Whistler.

Day 2: Early departure for Blackcomb ski lifts. Send off over the backside of Blackcomb Mountain and start our tour.

Day 3: On tour.

Day 4: On tour and return to the Whistler ski area.*

Day 5: Depart for home.

*Hotel night is not included on day 4.

NOTE ON ITINERARY: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to weather, route conditions, and other reasons beyond our control. Students will be advised of the location of their course within the 2 weeks prior to the start date, based upon current snow, route, and weather conditions.

WEATHER: Like all mountain ranges, the weather in the Coast Range is unpredictable and adverse conditions can roll in at any time, limiting the productivity of your trip. Mountain Madness has no control over these conditions and last minute decisions are sometimes made to save the trip from being completely cancelled. This may include waiting for the weather to pass as the best plan of action.

QUALIFICATIONS: Advanced alpine, telemark or snowboarding ability and previous mountaineering experience is required. This trip is rated as strenuous and we cannot overemphasize the importance of physical conditioning. By getting your heart, lungs, and legs in top physical condition, you can focus on learning while enjoying the high mountain environment. Because everyone is required to carry a share of the group’s equipment, be prepared to carry as much as 30-40 lbs. for 4-6 hours a day.



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Couscous & Couloirs in Morocco

A beautiful journey of discovery through the heart of the High Atlas mountains in winter ascending high peaks, enjoying some steep ski descents and experiencing remote Berber villages with their renowned hospitality.

This is an opportunity to combine excellent early season ski touring with the unique culture and customs of this fascinating North African country. We start and finish the trip in Marrakesh, a historic melting pot of frenetic activity!

2008 DATES
February 23-March 2

Cost: $2,400 Student/Instructor Ratio: 5:1

COST INCLUDES: Airport transfer, ground transportation, scheduled hotel accommodations in Marrekesh, restaurant meals all meals while on the mountain, cook staff, group climbing equipment, porters and guide services.

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airfare, alcoholic beverages gratuities for guides, and all personal items. A detailed equipment list will be sent to all participants.


COURSE ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive in Marrakesh. You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel Riad Omar just a few minutes walk from the Jemaa el Fna Square. This is an authentic Moroccan Riad on the edge of the old town. Time to explore – the Souk, Medina, museums, palaces and gardens - and soak up the unique atmosphere of this enchanting and historic city.

Day 2: Depart the hotel at 6 am for the 2-hour journey by private Landcruiser 4x4s along mountain roads to the trailhead at Oukaimeden, which is also the highest ski resort in North Africa. Once on our skis the route takes us over Tizi'n Eddi (2928m) followed by a descent into the Tachddirt valley and the villages of Tameguist and Tachddirt (2250m). Stay overnight in the village. Duration: 4-6 hours

Day 3: Ascent of Tizi'n Likemt (3615m) followed by a stunning descent.
At the foot of the mountains the mules will be waiting for us for the interesting trek over the Col de Tamatert (2279m) to M'Zik (1750m). Views en-route of the mountain oasis at Imlil. Stay overnight in the village. Duration: 5-8 hours

Day 4: A long uphill day, walking and skinning to the Toubkal hut (3100m) Overnight at the hut
Duration: 4-7 hours

Day 5: Toubkal ascent (4167m). This is the highest mountain in North Africa and with clear weather the panoramic views from the summit are just astonishing. Depending on snow conditions you may not be able to ascend to the summit on skis but will need to climb in boots to reach the top. Return to the hut via the same route. Duration: 5-7 hours

Day 6: The beautiful ski traverse and ascent of Tizi'n Tadat (3600m) with stunning panoramic views. This is followed by an excellent descent to Tazarharht hut (3300m).
Night in the hut Duration: 5-8 hours

Day 7: Early start for the ascent of Tazarharht (3980m). Return to the hut and the ski down to M'zik and Imlil. Drive back to Marrakesh via Asni, site of one of the largest souks. Celebrate a great trip with dinner on the terrace enjoying superb views across the city. Overnight at the Hotel Riad Omar**
Duration: 6-8 hours

Day 8-9: Breakfast in the hotel. Return to the airport for the flight home.

NOTE ON ITINERARY: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to weather, route conditions, and other reasons beyond our control.

QUALIFICATIONS: Previous mountaineering experience is not required. This is advanced ski tour in rugged mountain country with steep ascents and descents up to 40-45º. Previous multi-day ski touring is essential. Emergency rescue facilities in the mountains are very limited and you need to be able to deal with demanding conditions and basic facilities. This is an advanced ski tour with long 6-8 hour days requiring excellent fitness and stamina. Mules are used for carrying gear on and off the mountain so you only need to ski with light packs.

NEXT STEPS: After completion of this tour, you may want to build upon your new skills and participate in a more advanced expedition. The following opportunities are logical next steps that will help you advance your abilities, or at least provide you with another exciting adventure. For more information about these trips, please refer to our brochure, visit our website www.mountainmadness.com or call 800-328-5925.

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• Terrain management (safe, efficient, fast)
  
• Terrain management w/ uphill track
  
• Terrain management downhill
  
• Rappelling and rope management
  
• Glaciology and crevasse pattern prediction
  
• Navigation using maps, altimeters, and compasses
  
• Roped glacier travel and route finding through crevassed areas
  
• Mountain weather, alpine ecology, hazard assessment, and Leave No Trace Ethics
  

COST INCLUDES: Ground transportation, all meals while on the mountain, tents, stoves, cook kits, group climbing equipment, and guide services.

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airfare, transportation within Seattle, hotel accommodations, restaurant meals, gratuities for guides, and all personal items. A detailed equipment list will be sent to all participants.

COURSE ITINERARY:
Day 1: 6:30 orientation. After an initial meeting and equipment check, we drive from Seattle to the trailhead and begin our hike to Boston Basin. We will cap the day with a short evening ski run before dinner.

Day 2: You will begin the day by going up and over Sharkfin col. We then descend down and across the Boston Glacier and continue around Forbidden Peak by climbing over the North Ridge. Dropping down onto the top of the Forbidden Glacier, we enjoy the next 4,000 feet to Moraine Lake.

Day 3: After a hearty breakfast, we ascend up to Klawatti col on the Inspiration Glacier. We set camp, and then go for an afternoon run down the McAllister Glacier.

Day 4: Today your group will make a summit attempt on Eldorado Peak. If conditions are good we will summit and ski off the top and all the way down Eldorado Creek back to the car.

NOTE ON ITINERARY: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to weather, route conditions, and other reasons beyond our control. Students will be advised of the location of their course within the 2 weeks prior to the start date, based upon current snow, route, and weather conditions.

WEATHER: Like all mountain ranges the weather in the cascades is un-predictable and can roll in at any time limiting the productivity of your trip. Mountain Madness has no control over these conditions and last minute decisions are sometimes made to save the trip from being completely cancelled. This may include waiting for the weather to pass as the best plan of action.

QUALIFICATIONS: Previous mountaineering experience is not required. However, this trip is rated as strenuous and we cannot overemphasize the importance of physical conditioning. By getting your heart, lungs, and legs in top physical condition, you can focus on learning while enjoying the high mountain environment. It is recommended that you have some camping and hiking experience prior to this trip. Because everyone is required to carry a share of the group’s equipment, be prepared to carry as much as 60 lbs.

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MOUNT BAKER, EASTON GLACIER - SKI DESCENT

Mt. Baker, the highest peak in the North Cascades, is considered among renowned mountaineers as the most beautiful and pristine of the Cascade volcanoes. With its twelve active glaciers and breathtaking views, 10,778' Mt. Baker provides a scenic, challenging, and extremely rewarding mountaineering experience.

The upper mountain’s harsh alpine environment and the lower mountain’s close proximity to quality teaching and training grounds make Mt. Baker an ideal location to learn snow, glacier travel skills skiing in a glaciated terrain. Our goal is to give you hands-on experience, while teaching fundamental mountaineering skills and enjoying spring corn skiing. The experiences and skills developed on Mt. Baker will prepare you for long ski tours such as the Spearhead Traverse and the Mt. Elbrus Ski Descent.

Student/Instructor Ratio: 5:1

2008 DATES:

May 10-12 & May 31 - June 2

Cost: $695.00

On this climb we cover:

• Terrain management (safe, efficient, fast)
  
• Terrain management w/ uphill track
  
• Terrain management downhill
  
• Snow climbing, ice axe positioning, and moving in balance
  
• Self arrest techniques
  
• Snow and ice anchor selection, construction, and equalization
  
• Ice climbing and crampon techniques
  
• Prussiking and team crevasse rescue practice
  
• Rappelling and rope management
  
• Glaciology and crevasse pattern prediction
  
• Navigation using maps, altimeters, and compasses
  
• Roped glacier travel and route finding through crevassed areas
  
• Mountain weather, alpine ecology, hazard assessment, and Leave No Trace Ethics .
  

COST INCLUDES: Ground transportation, all meals while on the mountain, tents, stoves, cook kits, group climbing equipment, and guide services.

COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Airfare, transportation within Seattle, hotel accommodations, restaurant meals, gratuities for guides, and all personal items. A detailed equipment list will be sent to all participants.

CLIMB ITINERARY

Day 1: 6:30 orientation. After an initial meeting and equipment check, we drive from Seattle to the trailhead and begin our hike to base camp. This hike is very strenuous and can take from 4 - 6 hours depending upon the particular approach and the fitness of the group. (This is where all of your training pays off!) You'll skin through ancient forests and sow covered alpine meadows, en route to our base camp. After establishing our camp, the remainder of the day will focus on the skills necessary for the proper use of an ice axe, traveling in balance, self-belay, and self arrest. We will cap the day with a short evening ski run before dinner.

Day 2: After an early morning breakfast, we discuss and practice in greater detail the essentials of proper use of ice axes and crampons , glacier travel, self-arrest, and crevasse rescue. You will have the opportunity to learn or review all of the skills necessary to make a safe ascent to the 10,781' summit. We will also have time to discuss in detail the aspects of the climb necessary for safety and efficiency. In the afternoon we will explore the glacier and make a few runs.

Day 3: Summit day with a pre-dawn start around 3:00 a.m. After 6-10 hours of climbing, we reach the summit, where gorgeous views of the Cascades reward you as you stand on the summit of the North Cascade’s highest volcano. Enjoy the views and a snack, then the real pleasure begins as we begin our descent. Upon reaching camp, we pack up and head down for a celebratory dinner.

NOTE ON THE ITINERARY: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, the very nature of climbing in an alpine environment requires flexibility. This itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, and other reasons beyond our control.

WEATHER: Like all mountain ranges, the weather in the Cascades is unpredictable and can roll in at any time. Mountain Madness has no control over these conditions and last minute decisions are sometimes