'Hot Ice'

Course Details

DATES - PRICE - LOCATION
AGENDA - INSTRUCTORS & GROUP SIZE
DIFFICULTY, FITNESS & EXPERIENCE
TRANSPORTATION - ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
GEAR - INSURANCE - BOOKING

Every winter a select group of committed climbers gathers in the Canadian Rockies to spend a week climbing with top guides on classic routes. The program is called 'Hot Ice' and if you have previous ice climbing experience you're welcome to join us for the 2000 session.

The Canadian Rockies have the best ice-climbing in the world with reliable conditions, lots of areas and routes offering a complete range of difficulty and challenge. With a 1:2 instructor ratio we can expect to meet the objectives of most climbers.

Dates:  Feb 5 - 9, 2001; Feb 12 - 16, 2001

Price: $1,200 CDN (c.$816US) includes GST, instruction and use of technical gear. Accommodation, local transfers and meals are not included but easy to arrange. Cancellation insurance is available for $60

Return to Top

Location

The course is based in Canmore but expect to be traveling to different climbing areas throughout it. There are lots of places to climb ice in our area. These range from beginner climbs just outside Canmore to the famous "Weeping Wall" on the Banff-Jasper highway. Other climbs can be found on Banff's Cascade Mountain, at Lake Louise and in the Kicking Horse Valley near Field, B.C.

Course Agenda

This week is totally practical, there are no formal evening sessions. Climbs are selected day by day to best suit participants abilities and objectives.

Day 1: Meet at 8:00am to arrange that day's climbing before heading out to the ice.

Day 2 - 5: Climbing to the max, the only limit your energy!

Return to Top

Instructors and Group Size

Your instructors are certified by the internationally-recognized Association of Canadian Mountain Guides and licensed by Parks Canada. There will be a maximum of 10 participants and maximum guide ratios are 1:2.

How difficult is it? How fit and experienced need you be?

Ice climbing can be a strenuous activity even though our coaching will emphasize development of technique to reduce the need for brute strength. The climbing will be tailored towards your ability and strength as much as possible. A high level of fitness will contribute to enjoyment and achievement. 'Hot Ice' is suitable for climbers with previous ice-climbing experience and a strong desire for adventure.

Return to Top

Transportation

Lake Louise is 180km west of Calgary on the Trans Canada (#1) Highway in Banff National Park. Calgary International Airport is regularly serviced by flights from Europe and throughout North America. Participants are responsible for their own transport to Lake Louise which can be reached by regular bus service (on booking we'll send you full bus info). During the program we will coordinate a car pool among participants. We will organize extra transportation, at cost, if necessary.

Accommodation and Meals

These are not included in the program cost however we have reserved space at the Alpine Centre in Lake Louise for participants. This option will cost you approximately $20/night. There are also many hotels in the area. Meals are not included but Lake Louise has many restaurants and if staying at the Alpine Centre you can either prepare your own meals or take advantage of their excellent cafeteria.

For those on the Jan 31 - Feb 4 program we will offer an accommodation and meal package at Num-Ti-Jah Lodge( $430). You can stay elsewhere (Lake Louise or various primitive hostels nearby) but will need to meet the group at the different locations each day.

Return to Top

Equipment and Clothing

We supply all technical gear. You will need to bring suitable winter clothing and climbing boots (these can be rented). We will send you a complete list of what to bring when you book.

Return to Top

Insurance

There is no charge for rescue so long as you have a valid National Park Entry Pass (obtain on entry to to National Park). It is wise, though to to ensure that your health plan will cover you in case of illness or accident whilst here. Obtain extra coverage if necessary.

Booking Information

Please book as early as practical to avoid disappointment. We require a $365CDN deposit with the balance due 8 weeks in advance, after that, full payment is required. To avoid unnecessary cancellation penalties we suggest you take our cancellation insurance for an extra non-refundable $60, this must accompany your deposit.

For detailed booking instructions and conditions, click here.

Along with all relevant receipts we will send you a full trip logistical kit (containing meeting times, a list of what to bring and info on how to get here) and a sample copy of our waiver which we will ask you to sign when you meet us.

PLEASE DON'T HESITATE TO CONTACT US IF
YOU NEED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THIS COURSE!