Classic AlpinISM Level Instructional Course

The International School of Mountaineering Ltd, a Mountaineering club in Kendal, is excited to promote the Classic AlpinISM Level Instructional Course, a thrilling 5-day, 6-night program designed to enhance participants' summer alpine mountaineering skills and help them become independent mountaineers. This course is perfect for individuals who have already completed Level 2 Guided Climbing courses or the Summits & Skills 4000m introductory course, and have prior rock climbing experience. By the end of the course, participants will receive an ISM Level 2 certificate, a testament to their newly developed alpine skills and techniques.

Throughout the week, participants will receive structured instruction and guidance from experienced ISM Guides. They can expect top-notch support as the course fee of £1,895 covers all necessary transportation, accommodation, meals, and uplift. The course promises a plethora of exciting highlights, including the opportunity to learn and sharpen key alpine skills, become more independent in the mountains, and receive expert coaching from our knowledgeable guides.

The Classic AlpinISM Level Instructional Course is aimed at individuals who have already acquired basic skills in summer alpine mountaineering and are eager to expand and refine their abilities. It is also ideal for those seeking to access more technical alpine terrains and gradually gain more confidence and independence as mountaineers.

The course kicks off with a briefing at 6.45 pm on Sunday evening at the hotel in Leysin. Here, participants will have the chance to meet their fellow teammates and Guides, as well as discuss important course details, ask any questions they may have, and make sure they have all the necessary equipment. To fuel up for the adventures ahead, dinner will be provided following the briefing.

On Monday, participants will embark on a journey to a high alpine hut, typically located in the Trient region on the Swiss side of the Mt Blanc massif. This region offers a diverse range of climbs perfectly suited for the following days. The day's activities will include a short drive to Champex, a chair lift ride to La Breya, and a couple of hours' walk to reach the Orny glacier. Once on the glacier, participants will engage in a session reviewing basic crampon and ice axe techniques, as well as roped glacier travel. Our skilled Guides will also demonstrate and coach participants' ice climbing technique through 'ice bouldering' and teach the use of ice screws and Abalakov belays. The group will then continue their ascent to the Cabane d'Orny, where they will spend the night.

Tuesday will be dedicated to multi-pitch rock climbing. Participants will have the opportunity to climb the west ridge of the Aiguille d'Arpette, allowing them to practice various elements of a safe and enjoyable alpine rock day. This will include understanding hazards, route finding, rope work, techniques for different types of rock terrain, placing traditional protection, choosing anchors, and safe abseiling techniques. The objective of the day is to enhance participants' independence in the alpine environment. The group will enjoy a second night at the Cabane d'Orny.

Wednesday will start bright and early, before dawn, to take full advantage of the frozen conditions on the Trient Glacier. The day will involve climbing on the glacier and putting into practice the skills learned throughout the course. The specific activities will depend on the abilities and progress of the participants, as well as the prevailing weather conditions. The day will conclude with a return to the Cabane d'Orny for the final night of the course, marking the end of an incredible adventure.

Please note that for course dates and booking information, you should refer to the appropriate source outside this text.