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Womens Programs
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GLACIER MOUNTAINEERING COURSE
Set in a spectacular environment that provides abundant learning opportunities, this comprehensive course is truly rewarding. It is designed for individuals aspiring to learn the fundamental skills of snow, ice, glacier, and rock climbing techniques, and includes the application of skills learned toward the ascent of major glaciated mountains. The majority of the time you will spend in the North Cascades where active glaciers, volcanic peaks, and breathtaking views create the ideal learning environment. A summit attempt at the end of the course gives you the chance to put your newly developed skills to the test. Our final day is reserved as a backup summit day or as a chance to learn basic rock climbing techniques at the scenic Mt. Erie located near the San Juan Islands. Our goal is to develop safe, self-reliant alpine climbers ready to climb locally or in the greater ranges of the world. This course is truly an excellent foundation for any climber seeking independence in the alpine arena.
No previous climbing experience necessary.
Client to Guide Ratio: 5:1
Climbing Grade: Beginner
2005 Dates (6 days):
TBA
Cost: $995
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 curriculum includes:
- Roped glacier travel, rope team management, route
finding, and navigation
- Team and individual crevasse rescue techniques
and scenarios
- Low angle to steep snow climbing techniques, ice
axe positioning, and moving in balance
- Snow and ice anchor selection, construction, and
equalization
- Intro to ice climbing and crampon techniques
- Team and individual self arrest techniques
- Belaying, rappelling, and rope management
- Glaciology and crevasse pattern prediction
- Basic rock climbing techniques, commands, and equipment
use
- Navigation using maps, compasses, and altimeters
- Camp construction, camp management, and cold weather
camping skills
- Hazard assessment including: discussion of objective
vs. subjective hazards, assessment of avalanche danger,
crevasse fall, rock and ice fall dangers
- Proper clothing and equipment for survival in the
glacial environment, mountain weather, alpine ecology,
efficient, safe and self-dependent climbing techniques,
and Leave No Trace ethics
COURSE ITINERARY
Day 1: 6:30 a.m. 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 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 hike through lush ancient forests,
high alpine meadows, and eventually snow covered areas
en-route to our base camp. After establishing 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. You also
begin learning about placing various types of snow
protection for use in the construction of snow anchors,
as well as belay techniques.
Day 2: After a hearty breakfast, we begin the
day with an introduction to crampon use and climbing
steeper snow and ice. We then focus on the skills
required for safe and efficient glacier travel including
roped travel and self-rescue (prussiking) techniques.
This includes 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. After
learning the proper techniques for traveling as a
rope team, we then make a short glacial “tour,”
enabling us to practice and comprehend the day’s
lessons. Discussions late in the day will focus on
navigation with the use of a map and compass.
Day 3: Our main focus for the day is crevasse
rescue. Your group will get more practice placing
effective snow anchors and bollards and will then
learn to equalize them to create “bomber”
anchors. You will put them to use as you learn the
fundamentals of crevasse rescue pulley systems and
then move on to more advanced pulley systems. Your
team will perform a number of team rescues and a multitude
of realistic crevasse fall scenarios will be addressed.
We will conclude the day with a discussion of the
mountain environment and methods of evaluating subjective
and objective hazards.
Day 4: Today your group will move to a high
camp in preparation for your summit attempt. After
establishing camp, you will further refine your steep
snow and ice climbing with an emphasis on French,
German and American hybrid styles of crampon technique.
Later in the day, your guides will lead a discussion
of avalanche terrain evaluation and avoidance. This
evening, we will make final preparations for the next
day’s summit attempt.
Day 5: 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
all week toward the ascent of a major glaciated peak.
Depending on conditions and the pace of your group,
it will take 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.
Day 6: Today is reserved as a backup summit
day or a chance to refine the skills you have been
taught throughout the course. Depending on the conditions
we may give more time to learning advanced snow and
ice skills or take the opportunity to go to Mt. Erie
for an introduction to rock climbing techniques. Overlooking
the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Mt. Erie provides an excellent
chance to learn and practice rock climbing techniques
including appropriate equipment selection, belaying,
rappelling, and efficient movement over rock. At the
end of the day, we will pack up our gear and head
back to Seattle. Expect to be in Seattle between 6
and 8 PM.
NOTE ON ITINERARY: Although we do our 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 two weeks prior
to the start date, based upon current snow, route,
and weather conditions.
WEATHER: Like all mountain ranges, the weather
in the Cascades 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: 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. to base camp.
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INTRODUCTION TO ROCK CLIMBING
This class is designed to accommodate first time climbers as well as those with some indoor rock climbing experience. We begin with friction climbing to develop your balance, and then incorporate both face and crack climbing techniques before progressing to more challenging climbs. You will learn safe climbing protocols under the guidance of experienced and supportive instructors. It is our intent to educate, encourage and enlighten you in the rewards and pure fun of rock climbing. Equipment, belays, anchors, knots, rappelling and lowering are all thoroughly covered. An additional objective of this class is for students to be able to safely evaluate and set up their own top ropes.
Client to Guide Ratio: 5:1
Climbing Grade: Beginner
2005 COURSE DATES
TBA
Cost: $225
COST INCLUDES: All group climbing equipment and professional instruction.
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Personal climbing equipment
(rock shoes, climbing harness, large locking carabiner),
transportation, gratuities for guides, meals, lodging,
and personal items.
Course curriculum:
- Selection and use of ropes, knots & harnesses
- Anchor construction, equalization, and evaluation of top-rope, lead climbing and rappel anchors
- Development of face, slab and crack climbing techniques
- Belaying a lead climber, lowering, and rappelling techniques
- Route selection, rope management and route finding
- Multi pitch climbing techniques
- Hazard assessment including a discussion of objective
vs. subjective hazards
LOCATION: Leavenworth, Washington is located east
of Seattle via US 2 (Stevens Pass Hwy.). Driving time
from Seattle is approximately 2 1/2 hours. Classes meet
at 9:00 a.m. at O'Grady's Pantry, Sleeping Lady. To get
there turn south off Hwy 2 onto Icicle Rd. at the western
edge of Leavenworth. Travel ~2.5 miles on Icicle Rd.,
past the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery and Homefires
Bakery. Turn left into Sleeping Lady. Do not follow the
major curve to the right that leads into Icicle Canyon.
LODGING/CAMPING: On Saturday evening climbers are
welcome to stay at the Johnny Creek Forest Service campground
located on Icicle Creek Road, upstream from the Snow Creek
Parking Lot. Camping spots are available on a first come-first
served basis. However, there are numerous motels, bed
and breakfasts, inns, etc. available in and around Leavenworth.
EQUIPMENT: You must bring your own rock shoes, climbing harness, and climbing helmet. All ropes, slings, and hardware will be provided. Because there are a wide variety of belay/friction devices available, students are encouraged to bring their own belay/friction device or any other equipment they wish to learn more about. Be prepared for both hot and/or cool weather. Bring sunglasses, sun hat, sun screen, shorts, a pair of long pants or tights, a wind shirt and a light sweater for cooler weather, hiking shoes (sneakers are fine), a small day pack, lunch, and a couple of quarts of water.
- FITTING ROCK SHOES: How tight? We recommend that students begin with a more comfortable fit. While it is true that tight shoes equal improved performance, comfort is a primary concern while learning to climb. Try a few pairs of shoes on and apply weight to the toe area. The toes should touch the end of the shoe without curling under. Many climbers eventually own two pairs: a tight pair for short hard climbs and a more comfortable pair for longer climbs.
- FITTING HARNESSES: The harness should be fit above the hips at the waist. At the waist, the harness should fit snugly without being tight. Leg loops fit can be a little looser, and should not restrict leg movement. A full body style harness is recommended for smaller climbers, usually for ages 5-13.
- RENTAL INFORMATION: Mountain Madness rents climbing harnesses for the two-day class. Call for rates and information on other rentals. We do not rent rock shoes. In addition to Mountain Madness, rental equipment is available at the following locations in the Seattle area:
Vertical World, Seattle: 206-283-4497 Marmot, Bellevue: 425-453-1515
Feathered Friends, Seattle: 206-292-2210 REI, Redmond: 425-882-1158
REI, Seattle: 206-223-1944 Vertical World, Redmond: 425-881-8826
ITINERARY
Day 1: The day begins with an equipment review and a lesson on the essential knot skills required for the day’s climbing. You will also learn proper belaying techniques that will prepare you for actual climbing. Once the basics are covered, you begin climbing. Communication signals and various friction climbing techniques will be covered. After a break, the group will move onto steeper terrain. Top rope set-up, rappelling, and rope management will round out the day’s activities. In the evening, Mountain Madness guides will often head into town for a relaxing meal or prepare their meals at the campground. You are welcome to join them to discuss the day’s lesson or to learn more about Mountain Madness and climbing.
Day 2: The second day will include more climbing and a review of the previous day’s lessons. As the group moves on to steeper and more challenging terrain, you will learn anchor evaluation as well as face and crack climbing techniques. We generally wrap up the course by about 4:00 p.m.
NOTE ON ITINERARY: In this course, the guides use
their experience and knowledge of the area to match students
with routes that will appropriately challenge and reward.
Guides may select an alternate climb for these reasons.
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.
WEATHER: Due to its location on the east side of the Cascades, the area around Leavenworth receives considerably less rain than Seattle and western Washington. It is usually warmer than Seattle in the summer, and colder in the winter by 10-15 degrees F. The rock-climbing season in the Leavenworth area usually begins in late March or early April and continues until late October.
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MOUNTAIN MADNESS' ANNUAL WOMEN'S RETREAT
Rock Climbing and Yoga in Leavenworth, Washington
All levels of climbers, yoga lovers welcome!
Mountain Madness’ annual women’s retreat is
designed to have a little something for everyone. Participants
greet each day with an empowering yoga session, and then,
centered and ready for action, climb in Icicle Creek Canyon.
Whether it is to develop grace and coordination, reach
a deeper sense of personal achievement, learn technical
skills, or to share in a challenging activity, there is
no experience quite like reaching the top of a challenging
pitch with the support of your belay partner and sheer
determination. Participants will focus on techniques to
encourage efficiency, build confidence, learn skills,
and develop awareness. In addition to teaching skills
and techniques, and providing a supportive atmosphere,
we emphasize the development and celebration of women
as climbers. The class is open to all women - no experience
necessary.
This 2-day weekend is designed for those who appreciate the unique camaraderie that takes place when a group of women, together, undertake a demanding adventure. Mountain Madness’ highly skilled and professional female instructors will do their utmost to meet individual skill levels. Mothers, daughters, sisters, friends – all are welcome! Ideal for any age and experience level.
2005 Dates: September 10-11
Cost: $280 per person
COST INCLUDES: Ropes, guide, group climbing gear,
group camp site reservation, cook-out dinner Saturday
night and yoga sessions.
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE: Transportation, food (other
than Saturday night), lodging (other than camping at reserved
campground site), and personal climbing equipment.
ITINERARY
Day 1: The day begins with an equipment review and
a lesson on the essential knot skills required for the
day’s climbing. You will also learn proper belaying
techniques that will prepare you for actual climbing.
Once the basics are covered, you begin climbing. Communication
signals and various friction climbing techniques will
be covered. After a break, the group will move onto steeper
terrain. Top rope set-up, rappelling, and rope management
will round out the day's activities. The day will finish
with a one hour yoga session and then a cook out dinner
at our camp site.
Day 2: The second day will begin with a morning
yoga session. After yoga and breakfast we will head to
the crags. The morning will include more climbing and
a review of the previous day’s lessons. As the group
moves on to steeper and more challenging terrain, you
will learn anchor evaluation as well as face and crack
climbing techniques. We generally wrap up the course by
about 4:00 p.m.
WEATHER: Due to its location on the east side of the Cascades, the area around Leavenworth receives considerably less rain than Seattle and western Washington. It is usually warmer than Seattle in the summer, and colder in the winter by 10-15 degrees F. The rock-climbing season in the Leavenworth area usually begins in late March or early April and continues until late October.
EQUIPMENT: You must bring your own rock shoes, climbing harness, climbing helmet, hiking shoes for hikers, & yoga mats. All ropes, slings, and hardware will be provided. Because there are a wide variety of belay/friction devices available, students are encouraged to bring their own belay/friction device or any other equipment they wish to learn more about. Be prepared for both hot and/or cool weather. Bring sunglasses, sun hat, sun screen, shorts, a pair of long pants or tights, a wind shirt and a light sweater for cooler weather, hiking shoes (sneakers are fine), a small day pack, lunch, and a couple of quarts of water.
- FITTING ROCK SHOES: How tight? We recommend that students begin with a more comfortable fit. While it is true that tight shoes equal improved performance, comfort is a primary concern while learning to climb. Try a few pairs of shoes on and apply weight to the toe area. The toes should touch the end of the shoe without curling under. Many climbers eventually own two pairs: a tight pair for short hard climbs and a more comfortable pair for longer climbs.
- FITTING HARNESSES: The harness should be fit above the hips at the waist. At the waist, the harness should fit snugly without being tight. Leg loops fit can be a little looser, and should not restrict leg movement. A full body style harness is recommended for smaller climbers, usually for ages 5-13.
- RENTAL INFORMATION: Mountain Madness rents climbing harnesses for the two-day class. Call for rates and information on other rentals. We do not rent rock shoes. In addition to Mountain Madness, rental equipment is available at the following locations in the Seattle area:
- Vertical World, Seattle: 206-283-4497 Marmot, Bellevue: 425-453-1515
- Feathered Friends, Seattle: 206-292-2210 REI, Redmond: 425-882-1158
- REI, Seattle: 206-223-1944 Vertical World, Redmond: 425-881-8826
Contact Us / Download an Application
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