Basic Snow

Boulder Mountaineering School

The Basic Snow class is intended for those who would like to gain experience with the basics of safe and easy snow travel on gentle slopes. Expected prerequisites include:

• Hiking and Survival Essentials or equivalent experience
• Self-sufficiency in snowy conditions - the ability to learn in a snowy environment including clothing, water and eating

If you have any questions regarding the minimum requirements, or what may be considered equivalent experience,
please contact bmswinter@cmcboulder.org.

Topics covered include:

• Walking on Packed Snow
• Crossing Snow Fields
• Evaluation of Snow Fields
• Basic Ice Axe Techniques
• Climbing Snow Fields
• Self Arrest - focus of class until self-arrest is second nature
• Descending Snow Fields

Course offered:

• Spring
• Winter

Notes:

• Proper mountaineering clothing and footwear is essential on this field trip. You will be above timberline the entire day and will spend most of the time wallowing in the snow. Waterproof parka pants and boots a must. Extra warm clothes, boots, gloves or mittens, hat, socks, goggles and facemask are recommended.
• The school provides an ice axe and helmet for those who lack these pieces of equipment.