Hot Ice Climbing

Location

The Bow Valley in the Canadian Rockies is renowned for both great climbing and reliable conditions. We will be based in Canmore, close to climbs in Kananaskis, Banff Park and the Ghost thus offering varied climbing in spectacular locations.

"Hot Ice" Agenda

This program is totally practical; there are no formal evening sessions. Climbs are selected day by day to best suit participant's abilities and objectives.

Day 1: Meet at 7.00am, check gear, discuss options then head out climbing for the day! This will likely be a top-rope or easier multi-pitch day to focus on skill development.

Day 2 - 5: Climbing to the max, the only limit your energy! Four days of multi-pitch ice climbing.

The route selection will depend on conditions and the group ability. The objective is to climb classic routes.

Meeting Time and Place

The programs begins at the Yamnuska office at 7.00am. The Yamnuska office is located at 200, 50 Lincoln Park, Canmore. See this map for location.

Instructors & Group Size

The "Yam Ice Team" includes some of the best climbers and guides anywhere!  Enthusiastic and extremely talented, they hold climbing certification from the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides and from other International Federation of Mountain Guide Association (IFMGA) countries. Your safety and enjoyment are paramount to them. There will be a maximum of 10 participants, a minimum of 2. Instructor ratios range down from 1:2!

The "Yam Ice Team" includes Tim Auger, Jason Billing, Steve Blagbrough, Barry Blanchard, Pat Delaney, Jesse De Montigny, Grant Meekins, Matt Mueller, Nick Rapaich, Simon Robins, Erica Roles, Nick Sharpe, and Mike Trehearne.

Transportation

To keep prices down participants are responsible for their own transport to Canmore and during the program. Canmore is 1 hour (100km) drive west from Calgary.

If you are flying from afar for the program we suggest that you rent a car for your visit. In addition to getting you to the climbing locations it will allow you to explore our region a bit after program hours. For example you can visit Banff and enjoy the hot pools and sample the numerous restaurants.

Frequent shuttles connect Calgary International Airport and Canmore. Greyhound Bus Lines (1 800 661 8747) serves Canmore from points east and west along the Trans-Canada Highway. Call 609 0300, 609 1490 or 609 8897 for taxis in Canmore.

Accommodation & Meals

These are your responsibility. There are lots of options available including hostels, B'n'Bs, motels and hotels! Check accommodation options on our links page for our recommendations. The

For your convenience we can arrange hotel accommodations in Canmore for $160 per night. Double or single occupancy, the cost is the same. This accommodation can be booked with the trip online or by calling us. Subject to availability.

Food is not supplied. You will need lunch and something to drink each day. Each day bring plenty to drink and a lunch plus energy snacks. We particularly suggest bringing a Thermos and hot drink.

Equipment & Clothing

The course fee includes use of technical gear although you should feel free to bring any gear you already have.

Equipment List

We suggest you bring:

• Boots, double plastic mountaineering boots*
• Daypack (large enough for spare clothing, your lunch & climbing gear e.g. rope & crampons)
• Crampons* (must fit your boots or be easily adjustable)
• Climbing Harness*
• Climbing Helmet*
• Ice Tools (2)*
• Belay Device*
• Sunglasses
• Thermos flask and/or water bottle (full!)
• Sun cream
• Pocket knife

*We can loan you these but you must advise us in advance that you need them.

Mountaineering Boots

Yamnuska has double plastic mountaineering boots which you are welcome to use. If needing these please let us know when you register. Please also give us your boot size.

Clothing List

There can be prolonged periods of inactivity in very cold temperatures. Don't be afraid to bring too much! We suggest bringing light clothing of varying thickness that can be 'layered' to achieve comfort and versatility. The most important consideration for clothing is the ability to regulate temperature as you change from periods of activity to periods of rest. We discourage cotton clothing as it causes rapid heat loss when wet.

We suggest you bring:

• Long underwear (top & bottom), polypro, wool or fleece
• Warm pants (pref. insulated or fleece)
• Warm shirt (not cotton)
• Sweater (medium or lightweight)
• Fleece Jacket (heavyweight)
• Insulated jacket or vest
• Waterproof jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or nylon)
• Waterproof pants (Gore-Tex or nylon)
• 2 sets Socks (wool outer & polypro liner)
• Wool or fleece hat that will cover ears & fit under helmet
• Waterproof climbing gloves &/or mitts plus spares
• Knee-length Gaiters
• Neck tube

Please book as early as practical to avoid disappointment. We require a $513 CDN deposit including taxes with the balance due 8 weeks in advance.

Detailed booking instructions and conditions.

Please note that you will be required to sign our waiver before commencing the program. Please view our sample waiver copy.

There is no charge for rescue so long as you have a valid National Park Entry Pass (available at park gate). However, it is wise to ensure that your health plan will cover you in case of illness or accident while here.

Yamnuska offers an "Adventure Travel Protection Plan" through Travel Guard insurance. This plan offers comprehensive coverage for all your travel needs including trip cancellation/interruption, emergency medical expenses, and personal effects loss. For more information and to purchase this coverage visit Travel Guard's website.