MountainLIFE

Ice Climbing

MountainLIFE programs are the best place for adults to connect with peers, get outdoors and enjoy mountain life to the fullest!  These programs are fun, exciting, educational experiences that connect participants with the local landscape. Programs are dependent on the season and include trips such as ice climbing, rock climbing, via ferrata, glacier travel, avalanche skills training, scrambling, backcountry skiing and more. For ages 31+

This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

Please note: These programs have priority registration for Banff residents. Residents may register for one course of each type per year (i.e. one ice climbing and one avalanche safety training per year). 

To register for a program or class:

Upcoming Programs

Avalanche Rescue Skills
This course is a perfect choice for those who want to refresh and update their avalanche search and rescue skills. If you recreate or work around avalanche terrain, this is the course for you. Every year outdoor enthusiasts face the challenge of moving safely in avalanche terrain. This rescue skills course will enhance and expand your skills providing you with the necessary tools and approaches to perform effective companion rescue should the need arise. Transportation included. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

Monday, December 11, 2023, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online 

Avalanche Skills Training Level 1
The Avalanche Skills Level 1 course will provide you, a passionate skier or snowboarder who wants to start exploring backcountry terrain, with the entry-level skills and decision-making tools necessary to keep you and your friends safe. Learn how to read and understand avalanche bulletins and weather conditions, learn how to use avalanche rescue equipment and assess various terrain and slope types. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

November 25 - 26, 2023, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online
January 13 - 14, 2024, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online

Avalanche Skills Training Level 2
The Avalanche Skills Training 2 course is for advanced skiers, snowboarders and ice climbers. This course starts in the classroom where you will review the basics and be introduced to advanced avalanche safety concepts and decision-making tools for various weather, snowpack and terrain conditions. On day two you will begin by having a pre-trip meeting to assess conditions such as weather and then you will head out into the field to practice your skills. Days three and four will include ski tours with skill application in a group setting. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

February 13 - 16, 2024, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online

Backcountry Skiing & Riding Day
Backcountry skiing & riding day is the perfect opportunity for those who want to continue to build beginner to intermediate backcountry skills with an experienced guide following an Avalanche Safety Training 1. A local ACMG guide will lead you on a fun, safe day of backcountry riding with the day's location chosen to take advantage of the best conditions. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

Wednesday, January 10, 2024, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online
Monday, January 29, 2024, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online
Monday, February 12, 2024, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online
Thursday, March 14, 2024, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online

Ice Climbing
In this one-day course you will learn the basics of ice climbing with the help of an ACMG certified guide in a small group setting. In the hands-on course you will learn how to use various ice climbing gear such as a harness, ice axes and crampons, ropes and belay systems. With the help of your guide, you will try various beginner-level top rope ice climbs at the day's destination. You will experience an amazing day full of learning, fun and adventure! Technical climbing equipment and group transportation provided. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

Friday, December 1, 2023, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register Online
Monday, March 11, 2024, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register Online

Ice Climbing Weekend
In this two-day overnight course, you will learn the basics of ice climbing with the help of an ACMG certified guide in a small group setting. You will experience two full amazing days full of learning, fun and adventure! Spend a night on the scenic Icefields Parkway at Rampart Creek, and try out two different ice climbing venues. Transportation, most equipment, and accommodation included. Technical climbing equipment and group transportation provided. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

February 3 - 4, 2024, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register Online

Intermediate Ice Climbing
Intermediate ice climbing is the next step for those who have ice climbed a few times and want to improve their skills. In this one-day course you’ll get a refresher of the basics of ice climbing with the help of an ACMG certified guide in a small group setting. Try various beginner and some intermediate top rope ice climbs at the day's destination and experience an amazing day full of learning, movement skills coaching and technical instruction. Technical climbing equipment and group transportation provided. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

 Friday, January 26, 2024, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register Online

Mountain Weather
The ability to understand, anticipate and accurately forecast mountain weather is a core skill for any outdoor enthusiast. In this course, you will learn basic and advanced mountain weather planning skills from a long-time local guide skilled in weather systems and forecast models so you can plan your next outdoor adventure. This program is being generously supported by the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.

Sunday, December 10, 2023, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Register Online