Crevasse Rescue and Glacier Travel Course - Arctos Guides

Crevasse Rescue and Glacier Travel Course

backcountry mountain adventures

Crevasse Rescue Course & Glacier Travel Training for Ski Mountaineering

Gain Skills. Go further.

Crevasse Rescue Course & Glacier Travel Training for Ski Mountaineering

This two-day crevasse rescue course and glacier travel course is designed specifically for skiers and snowboarders who want to move safely and confidently in glaciated backcountry terrain. Whether you’re getting started with ski mountaineering or looking to strengthen your technical skills, this training provides the essential foundation for safe travel and effective rescue response.

You’ll learn the latest tools, techniques, and systems used in modern crevasse rescue—always with a strong focus on realistic, hands-on practice. Our goal is to ensure you know exactly what to do if a partner falls into a crevasse, and that you can make smart, safe decisions while traveling on glaciers.

What You’ll Learn

Key skills covered in this ski mountaineering course include:

Securing the group and managing the scene after a crevasse fall
Building reliable snow and ice anchors, including ski/snowboard anchors and V-threads
Haul systems: 3:1, 6:1, and drop-loop setups
Rope skills: rope ascension, rappelling, and efficient transitions
Glacier travel techniques: terrain assessment, tying in, roped travel, probing, track setting, and route finding

By the end of the course, you’ll have the practical knowledge and confidence to act quickly and effectively in a crevasse rescue scenario—and to travel more safely as a team on glaciated terrain.

This training gives you the solid base you need to pursue more advanced ski mountaineering courses and bigger objectives in the mountains.

Ski mountaineering

ski mountaineering

Course Format

Day 1: Technical Systems
– Morning:

– Meet the guides and sign waivers

– Head into the field

– Introduction knots and rescue systems

– Hands-on practice session focusing on load transfers, haul systems, anchors, rope ascension and rappelling

– Situation assessment and decision-making

– Calling for help

Day 2: Glacier Travel

Location:Rogers Pass

– Spend the day touring on one of the glaciers in Rogers Pass.

– Key focus areas include:

– Arresting a fall

-Ice screw anchors

-Roped travel

-Terrain management/route finding

-Whiteout navigation

Throughout the course, participants will develop the skills to make informed decisions while enhancing their ability to execute a rescue effectively.

Price: $350+GST

Max six participants

Dates:

December 6,7 -Two spaces available

December 13,14 One space Available

December 20,21, 2025 -Six spaces available

Alternative dates are available upon request if you have a group of three or more.

Instructors:
Arctos Guides have years of experience in glaciated terrain and specialized training in crevasse rescue. We are certified by the Canadian Avalanche Association and the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides.

These courses are prefect preparation for our spring ski mountaineering backcountry basecamps.

Gear List

Crevasse Rescue Course

Equipment list

Backcountry Ski Basecamps

backcountry mountain adventures

Crevasse Rescue and Glacier Travel Course FAQs

Do I need previous mountaineering experience for this crevasse rescue course?

No prior mountaineering experience is required. This course is designed for backcountry skiers and splitboarders who want practical crevasse rescue and glacier travel skills. Basic touring experience is recommended.

What gear do I need for a glacier travel course?

You’ll need standard ski touring or splitboarding equipment plus a harness, helmet, rope-compatible gloves, and basic crevasse rescue hardware. A complete gear list is provided upon registration.

Will I learn real crevasse rescue systems like 3:1 and 6:1 hauls?

Yes. You’ll practice 3:1 and 6:1 haul systems, drop-loop setups, rope ascension, rappelling, and anchor building. The course emphasizes hands-on, scenario-based learning.

Is this course suitable for ski mountaineering beginners?

Absolutely. This training gives you the essential glacier travel and rescue foundation needed to progress into more advanced ski mountaineering objectives.

Does the course take place on a real glacier?

Yes—when conditions allow, training occurs on actual glaciated terrain to give you realistic practice and exposure.

Will I be ready to respond to a crevasse fall after completing the course?

You’ll finish the course with the confidence and skills to act quickly and effectively in a rescue situation, using modern tools and proven techniques.

Backcountry Ski Basecamps

Backcountry Ski Basecamps

Get in touch and start the journey.

Backcountry Ski Basecamps

Backcountry Ski Basecamps