The Mountain Skills Semester is designed from the cumulative experience of over 40 years as Canada’s top mountaineering school. In our outdoor leadership training program, we have focused on the most important skills required to travel safely and confidently in the mountains. These skills are presented in a logical progression from basic safety protocols and mountaineering gear handling to intermediate and advanced techniques. The MSS program is almost entirely a hands-on technical skills outdoor and leadership training course in Canada. Unlike other similar gap year programs, over 90 percent of our outdoor leadership training program is spent outdoors learning the skills and techniques to make you a competent mountaineer and backcountry skier. We believe this is the most comprehensive mountaineering semester program in the world and is dedicated solely to developing mountain skills. Our mountain climbing training school does not focus on water sports or other non-mountain-related disciplines.
Your proficiency will be reflected in the certifications that you receive upon completion of the semester including:
- 80-Hour Wilderness First Aid Course
- AST 1 Avalanche Skills Training Course
- Avalanche Skills Training 2
- The Yamnuska Canadian Mountaineering School Certificate
With these certifications and experience, our students can go directly into working in the outdoor tourism and recreation industry. It is also a great starting place for further mountain climbing training and a career track for ACMG guiding certifications. In fact, many of our current guides and office staff are semester alumni. You will be issued an education tax credit receipt (T2202/A) and you can use your education savings plan to pay for the course (please speak with your plan administrator). Your tax receipt will be for the instruction component of the semester and not the meals, accommodation or transportation costs.
Yamnuska’s location in Canmore, Alberta Canada is prime for accessing some of the best rock climbing, ice climbing, backcountry skiing, and mountaineering that can be found anywhere in the world! Our guides and staff choose to live in this area because they are passionate about mountain sports and culture and they are the perfect ambassadors to induct you into this elite community. Most field sites are within a 1 – 2-hour drive of our office, so we get to spend more time in the wilderness and less time in a vehicle.
All the Yamnuska mountaineering school guides are certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) and recognized by the IFMGA. They are professionally trained to teach and mentor mountain skills and are selected for their ability to clearly convey the key skills in a fun and effective manner. We focus on the “hard skills” of mountain travel and safety and teach them in progression to form well-rounded mountaineers. Many other competing mountain climbing training programs have a more ‘soft adventure’ focus and teach numerous days of theoretical skills in a classroom setting. There are also many other semester programs that have a large water component that involves either marine or freshwater paddle sports. In our opinion, the most important skills for safe mountain travel are gained from actually being in the mountains and getting professional instruction. Building on this base, our students can progress to advanced technical mountaineering, skiing, and climbing objectives very quickly. As with most athletics, building this core of safety, knowledge, and fitness will help students in whichever other outdoor sports they choose to pursue.
The reasons people take this gap year mountain climbing training program and their backgrounds prior to entering the semester are very diverse but the common end result is a life-changing experience. Many of our students tell us the sense of accomplishment they feel at the end of the semester is unlike anything they have ever experienced. The confidence that comes with this accomplishment lasts well beyond the three-month semester and permeates into every aspect of day-to-day life after the mountain climbing training program.
‘I just finished the assistant hiking guide course and exam – it was excellent, I learned a lot, from a bunch of great instructors and in an enthusiastic group!
I often thought about the Yam semester during the exam, it was an excellent base for that program. The navigation skills, the whole organizing of food and camping setup, the chance to be in front of a group, the guides meetings including the “language” used for the weather obs, etc, the wilderness first aid, the apprentice interpreter, to be moving around in the Rockies for three months gave me ( especially as a foreigner ) the perfect base to get familiar with travelling in the wilderness and the “Canadian standards”.
I would never have thought that just one year after the semester I would be able to do the hiking guide program!’
– Corinna, Fall Mountain Skills Semester
Our semester students become like our extended family and we aim to offer you as much support as we can. Secure storage, internet access, travel arrangements, messaging services, and advice on local attractions and destinations are examples of the support you can expect from our team of professional administrative staff here at the office.
We look forward to you joining our Canadian Mountain School!
Don’t have time for the 3-month Semester?
Check out our one-month mountaineering training course.
Curriculum
Our mountain school curriculum is designed to make you a competent mountaineer. We believe this is best done in the mountains and not in a classroom or campus setting.
Leadership: Regardless of whether you are out with friends or if you are a guide, your leadership skills are an important ingredient of your success and safety in the mountains. Leadership development is an important part of the program and it is embedded in all sections. Students will be put in leadership positions during every section of the semester.
Backpacking & Adventure Hiking: Navigation and route finding in challenging terrain, river crossings, and camping skills will all be covered during this section. We are also keen advocates of the Leave No Trace principle which will be introduced in this section and which will remain a constant thread throughout the semester.
Rock Climbing: In the spring and fall, rock climbing is taught at one of the best climbing venues in Canada: Banff National Park or Skaha, BC. The huge variety of climbing makes both of these locations an ideal place to learn “sport” and “traditional” climbing techniques including leading and gear placements.
Ice Climbing: We have some of the best ice climbing in the world on our doorstep in Canmore. The Canadian Rockies are world-renowned for their ice climbing and we will conduct much of the training in the heart of it near the Columbia Icefields. We will teach you how to move on steep ice using all of the specialized equipment, advanced climbing techniques, and placing and removing ice protection. We will be covering “mixed climbing” and you’ll find ‘dry tooling’ a sure way to get you ‘pumped’.
Mountaineering: Training takes place in some of the most remarkable terrain in the world. We teach you how to climb on snow, ice, and alpine rock plus instruct you in glacier travel, crevasse rescue, route finding, and navigation. All of this is combined with the ascent of several peaks. The final mountaineering expedition gives you the chance to organize and lead the trip under the watchful eye of our certified guides.
Backcountry Skiing: As with ice climbing we have world-class backcountry skiing in the Canadian Rockies and in the Selkirk Range just to the west. Winter route finding, avalanche hazard assessment, glacier travel, and winter camping skills are all covered. Canada is a world leader in avalanche training and Avalanche Canada sanctioned certificates will be awarded on successful completion.
Rescue: We will introduce you to more rope rescue techniques and to the advanced skills needed to extract victims from remote settings and steep terrain. This is invaluable knowledge to have in the mountains.
Wilderness First Responder: Part of the Semester is a professional-level wilderness first aid course. The Wilderness First Responder Certificate course is run and delivered by Rocky Mountain Adventure Medicine, North America’s leading provider of wilderness first aid training. This 80-hour program trains you to deal with the treatment and evacuation of casualties in a remote setting. You will be certified with the industry standard for outdoor professionals. For those looking to additionally use the certification for a worksite, the certification can be recognized by Alberta Workplace Health and Safety. This training will then offer mobility between Alberta, BC, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Yukon. To be eligible for this type of certification participants MUST provide proof of Standard First Aid certification that was taken within the year prior to the start of the Advanced Adventure Medic program. This is the exact same curriculum and exams, however, the Standard First Aid pre-requisite must be met for recognition by the Alberta Workplace Health and Safety.
Components of the Mountain Skills Semester
Mountain Hiking (Fall Semester Only)
Our introductory session for the semester will set the stage for travel in the mountains. This section will cover trip planning, navigational skills, map, compass, and GPS. Food planning and preparation, Leave No Trace ethics, camping skills, cooking skills, group travel, hazard recognition and risk management, bear and predator awareness. The bonds that will last a lifetime are forged during this trip.
Rock Climbing
The rock climbing section covers a broad spectrum of climbing techniques. We start with the introductory skills of site safety, risk assessment, rope management, belaying, and movement on rock, and then progress as skills and confidence build. Over the duration of this section, we will cover top-roped climbing, lead climbing, sport & Trad climbing, multi-pitch climbing, alpine scrambling, and rock rescue. This is a comprehensive skills section that moves at the pace of the individual climber and builds on both beginner and intermediate skills alike.
Alpine Mountaineering
Taking our previous skills we move to vast and steep glaciated terrain. Our comprehensive skills section on alpine mountaineering is campsite-based in view of the glaciers and peaks of the Columbia Icefields. It is here that you will learn safe travel techniques and crevasse rescue skills on the largest icefields in Banff and Jasper National Park. Skills days will be interspersed with long mountaineering days on such objectives as Mt. Athabasca 3,474m and others.
Alpine Expedition
This is an opportunity to take the skills you acquired with the expert oversight of mountain guides to lead an expedition to one of the 11,000 ft. peaks of the Canadian Rockies. The Alpine Expedition is a group-led trip interspersed with instruction, coaching, and guide mentorship. This gives participants the chance to test skills and new knowledge in an expedition setting. This is one of the more challenging and rewarding trips and is the culminating trip of the Spring semester.
*Wilderness First Responder – Rocky Mountain Adventure Medicine (RMAM)
This is an 80-hour theoretical and practical course on advanced wilderness first aid and medical emergencies. An industry-standard course, our advanced adventure medic program is approved and recognized by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides, American Mountain Guides Association, Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC, and Alberta Workplace Health and Safety as the minimum requirement to progress into the outdoor recreation guiding profession. We schedule this section mid-semester to provide a break in between physically challenging mountain trips.
*Avalanche Skills Training 1 (AST1)
A two-day course based on the curriculum developed by Avalanche Canada. One day in the classroom covering the theory behind the weather and avalanche phenomena, coupled with a practical touring day introducing the skills of snowpack analysis, companion and group rescue, terrain recognition skills as well as safe travel practice. This is the primary basis of travelling safely in the winter mountain environment and is a prerequisite for professional avalanche training with Avalanche Canada.
On-Piste Ski Skills
During the winter portion of the semester, we will spend a day in Lake Louise or Banff at one of the ski hills tuning up ski skills with intensive coaching and practice. This day will help set the stage for the backcountry skiing portion of the semester.
Ski Mountaineering
Our backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering sections are designed to provide students with the skills they need to travel safely in the winter mountain environment. We cover the basic techniques required for winter camping and survival as well as the specific skills needed to safely traverse glaciers, ski mountaineer to climb peaks, and route find in avalanche terrain. Most students with intermediate skiing abilities can build their skills and progress on to ski instructor training at the end of this section.
Waterfall Ice Climbing and Mixed Climbing
Our intent for this section is to allow the student to learn and use safe winter climbing practices in order to become a proficient climber on frozen waterfalls and in mixed terrain. Many of the world’s best ice climbers have learned and progressed on the famous ice climbs of the Canadian Rockies. This section will introduce students to the technical skills required for top rope, lead, and multi-pitch ice climbing in this world-class area. Safe winter practices such as route finding, evaluating avalanche conditions and hazard management will be discussed. This is an excellent section in which students will progress according to their own comfort and physical ability levels.
*Avalanche Skills Training 2 (AST 2 – advanced avalanche awareness)
The Avalanche Skills Training 2 course takes place in Rogers Pass in the Selkirk Mountains. An area famous for its deep snowpack and world-class backcountry skiing, Rogers Pass has the largest avalanche control program for highways and the railway in all of North America. This is an ideal location to learn about travelling in avalanche terrain and making the right decisions for personal and group safety.
The primary focus of the trip will be on advanced avalanche awareness, however integral to the section are advanced backcountry ski techniques, ski travel, powder skiing, snow shelter building, and winter camping skills. This is the culminating trip of the Fall semester.
* Denotes a certification that the student will receive during the program which can be used for future employment in the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism field. Certification is subject to meeting the governing body standards.
Sample Spring Semester
(please note that the order of activities may vary based on conditions. You will receive the itinerary for your program prior to the start date.)
Orientation and Basic Ice Skills Day
Day 1: The mountain skills semester will start at the Yamnuska office at 9.00 am. We will get to know the group that we will be spending the semester with and review the objectives and agenda of the program. The afternoon will involve heading to the local ice climbing area for an introduction to crampon and ice axe use.
Introduction to Ice Climbing
Day 2-3: Two days of basic skills training near Canmore. We introduce movement skills on progressively steeper ice and start learning the rope safety techniques that we will apply throughout the program.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Hazard recognition and evaluation | Ice axe use and placement |
| Guide book use | Top rope belaying |
| Grading systems | Ice screw placement and evaluation |
| Technical equipment familiarization | Anchor construction |
| Crampon techniques | Equipment care and storage |
| Climbing communication | Route selection |
| Safety checks | Getting to know your fellow participants |
| Basic movement skills |
Avalanche Skills Training – Level 1 – Classroom day
Day 4: Based on the curriculum developed by Avalanche Canada the Avalanche Skills Training level 1 (AST 1) will be the base for avalanche risk management for the remaining winter sections of the MSS. This day will cover avalanche theory in the Yamnuska classroom.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Introduction to avalanche phenomena | Trip planning |
| Recognition of avalanche terrain | Use of “Avaluator” risk assessment tool |
| Changes in the mountain snowpack | Theory and use of avalanche beacons |
| Regional differences in snowpacks | Companion rescue objectives |
Advanced Ice Climbing and Introduction to Mixed Climbing Skills
Day 5-11: Roadside seeps and frozen waterfalls have now become spectacular ice climbing challenges. For this section, we base out of the Rampart creek hostel where we have numerous options for both ice and mixed climbing. The pace is stepped up to incorporate the skills required to lead and multi-pitch climb. Mixed climbing skills will also be covered in this section.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Hazard recognition and evaluation | Leading techniques for waterfall ice |
| Avalanche danger and stability forecasting | Lead belaying |
| Route selection | Safe positioning of belays for ice climbing |
| Advanced movement skills | Multi-pitch skills for ice |
| Student top rope set up | Climb a multi-pitch route |
| Advanced anchor construction | Equipment care and storage |
| Rappelling | Introduction to mixed climbing |
| Descending systems |
Day 12-13: Days off in Canmore
Downhill Ski Skills
Day 14: Today will be spent at one of the local ski hills brushing up on downhill ski techniques and introducing safe skiing practices that can be used in the backcountry. Objectives will be adjusted for the groups’ ski ability.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Assess the groups ski ability | Manage difficult ski terrain safely |
| Provide downhill ski instruction and tips | Look at safe regrouping places |
| Get mileage downhill skiing | Choose appropriate pitch lengths to ski |
| Introduce kick turns |
Avalanche Skills Training – Level 1
Day 15: Based on the curriculum developed by Avalanche Canada the Avalanche Skills Training level 1 (AST1) will be the base for avalanche risk management for the remaining winter sections of the MSS. The first day will be theory in the Yamnuska classroom.
Introduction to Back Country Skiing (Boarding)
Day 16-19: This is the first tent-based section of the spring semester. You will learn the skills of winter camping and cooking. The days will be spent completing the Avalanche Skills Training level 1 field components as well as beginning to refine route-finding and track-setting skills. Of course, we will aim to ski some of the snow that makes these mountain ranges famous. The first day of this section is a prep day in Canmore where we will prepare food, tents, stoves, and personal equipment. We will also cover ‘Leave no Trace’ practices, map and compass skills, and trip planning. Expedition planning is a key skill that is covered throughout the semester and students will be expected to do most of the trip meal, equipment, and route planning.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Preparing packs, equipment and food | Basic trail-breaking techniques |
| Navigation (map and compass use) | Route finding |
| Trip planning | Skiing in backcountry snow |
| Hazard recognition and evaluation | Use safe ski practices |
| Avalanche danger and stability forecasting | Group management |
| Refine backcountry ski equipment use | Practicing ‘Leave no Trace’ ethics |
| Refine transition techniques | Basic backcountry camping skills |
| Transceiver checks | Backcountry cooking skills |
| Transceiver practice | General movement and pacing skills |
| Companion rescue practice |
Day 20: Day off in Canmore
Avalanche Skills Training – Level 2
Day 21-26: Based on Avalanche Canada’s curriculum, the Avalanche Skills Training level 2 course provides advanced avalanche training in complex terrain. This section is focused on improving avalanche skills to a high level as we head into the steep and deep of the Rockies or the Selkirk Mountains. We look at the practical application of recognizing, evaluating, and mitigating avalanche hazards. The group will either be camping or using snow shelters. With the completion of this section, you will be well prepared to continue with the professional-level courses offered by Avalanche Canada or similar courses in other countries. Day one of this section will be a prep day and will also cover more avalanche-related material in the classroom.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Prepare food and equipment | Receive feedback on leads in complex terrain |
| Create and execute a trip plan | Mountain navigation practice |
| Snow metamorphism | Safe decision making |
| Snow stability analysis | Safe ‘test’ skiing |
| Snow profiles, Rutsch blocks | Backcountry skiing |
| Shovel tests and additional field tests | Use of snow shelters |
| Weather, terrain and the snowpack | Refine cooking skills |
| Field observations | Refine winter camping skills |
| Avalanche danger and stability assessment | Advanced companion rescue practice |
| Hazard recognition and evaluation | Advanced Transceiver searches |
Day 27: Day off in Canmore
Day 28: Navigation Skills: Digital trip planning and electronic navigation.
Ski Mountaineering
Day 29-35: This section focuses on skiing in glaciated terrain. Instruction on glacier travel and crevasse rescue will progress into student-led climbs on the peaks of the Wapta Icefields.
Refining winter camping and cooking skills will also be a goal. Day one of this section is a prep day.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Prepare food and equipment for an expedition | Track setting |
| Create and execute a trip plan | Ski mountaineering ascents |
| Hazard recognition and management | Receive feedback on leads |
| Avalanche danger and stability assessment | Glacier travel in the winter |
| Lead a ski mountaineering trip | Crevasse rescue |
| Mountain navigation refinement | Personal care in winter conditions |
| Whiteout route plans | Refine cooking skills |
| Route finding | Refine winter camping skills |
Day 36: Day off in Canmore
Wilderness First Responder
Day 37-46: This 80-hour professional-level certification course is the benchmark first aid course for working in the outdoor industry. It includes extensive outdoor simulations and oxygen therapy. Those passing the exam are certified for three years. There will be a day’s break during the program which is needed for course study and exam preparation. This is a pass/fail course.
The following topics will be covered:
| Hands-on simulations | Improvisation Skills |
| Accident Management | Basic Search and Rescue |
| Long Term Care of the Sick and Injured | Patient Packaging |
| Evacuation techniques | Situation Leadership |
Course Break
Day 47-51: Your chance to take five days off and spend a little time on your own or plan a trip with some of your fellow group members. This is also a great time for keeners to go to the climbing gym to prepare for the next section. Many students plan their own mountain trips during the break to hone their skills.
Rock Climbing
Day 52-65: This is the longest segment of the spring Semester. As with the majority of the Mountain Skills Semester, the rock climbing section is a hands-on experience that will solidify your skills and knowledge. Having the basic technical skills from the ice climbing and ski mountaineering sections under our belts, we will quickly progress towards leading on both bolted and naturally protected routes. Multi-pitch skills and rock rescue will also be an integral part of this section.
Alpine rock scrambling will be covered and is an important facet of mountaineering that requires an ability to quickly choose the appropriate technique for every situation so as to maximize both speed and safety. We will introduce peer short roping, natural belays, and other important alpine rock climbing techniques.
Rock climbing takes place in either the Rockies on a variety of types of stone or at Skaha in BC’s Okanagan Valley. A floating day off will be taken during the section and will be determined by the weather and student energy levels.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Hazard recognition and evaluation | Cleaning routes |
| Guide book use | Multi-pitch skills |
| Grading systems | Climb a multi-pitch route |
| Route selection | Alpine rock climbing rope techniques |
| Basic movement skills | Basic short roping skills |
| Top rope and lead belaying review | Alpine rock scrambling skills |
| Anchor construction | Introduction to short roping |
| Rappelling | Advanced movement skills |
| Climbing communication review | Rock rescue skills |
| Safety checks | Lead climbing skills on rock |
| Traditional gear placement and evaluation | Equipment care and storage |
Day 66: Day off in Canmore
Alpine Mountaineering
Day 67-73: This is what the Canadian Rockies are famous for! Instruction on glacier travel and advanced crevasse rescue will progress into student-led climbs on the peaks of the Columbia Icefields area. Skills for climbing multi-pitch alpine ice routes will also be covered.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Hazard recognition and management | Glacier travel |
| Avalanche danger and stability assessment | Crevasse rescue |
| Refine navigation skills | Review of screws and anchors |
| Route selection | Student lead peak ascents |
| Review of crampon use | Multi-pitch alpine route |
| Self-arrest | Alpine ice leading techniques |
| Rope management in glaciated terrain | Pacing |
Day 74-75: Days off in Canmore
Alpine Expedition
Day 76-81: As a group, you will face the challenges of travelling and climbing in a new alpine region and putting to use the skills you have learned over the previous months. It is also a celebration of three months spent in the mountains. Areas used in the past have been: Mt Columbia, Ghost Valley Area, Mt Joffre, Mt Brazeau, Roger’s Pass, and others. Day one of this section will be a prep day.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Prepare food and equipment for an expedition | Route finding |
| Create and execute a trip plan | A significant mountaineering ascent |
| Hazard recognition and management | Receive feedback on leads |
| Lead an alpine expedition to a remote area | Glacier travel |
| Mountain navigation refinement | Refine cooking skills |
| Whiteout route plans | Refine winter camping skills |
Course debrief day and graduation dinner in Canmore
Day 82: Individual interviews with the instructors to properly debrief the program and an opportunity to plan how to further develop your mountaineering skills and career. This will be followed by a celebratory graduation dinner where you will be congratulated and awarded your certificates from the program.
Depart
Day 83: The course is closed and students head their separate ways after a great semester experience. The friendships and bonds formed will no doubt last a lifetime.
Sample Fall Semester
(please note that the order of activities may vary based on conditions. You will receive the itinerary for your program prior to the start date.)
Orientation and Preparation day
Day 1: The mountain skills semester will start at the Yamnuska office at 9.00 am. We will get to know the group that we will be spending the semester with and review the objectives and agenda of the program. The afternoon will involve preparing food, tents, stoves, and personal equipment for the first section. We will also cover ‘Leave no Trace’ practices.
Mountain Hiking and Navigation
Day 2 – 5: The first day of this section will build a solid foundation in mountain navigation before beginning our four-day hike. The majority of our hike will be off-trail to provide the best adventure and test for your navigation skills.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Preparing packs, equipment, and food | Basic backcountry camping skills |
| Navigation (map and compass use) | Backcountry cooking skills |
| Trip planning | General movement and pacing skills |
| Route finding | Getting to know your fellow participants |
| Practicing ‘Leave no Trace’ ethics |
Day 6: Day off in Canmore
Rock Climbing
Day 7 – 16: This is the longest segment of the Fall Semester. As with the majority of the Mountain Skills Semester (MSS), the rock climbing section is a hands-on experience that will solidify your skills and knowledge. We will start from the basics of equipment familiarization, belaying and movement technique and progress to leading on both bolted and naturally protected routes.
Rock climbing takes place in either the Rockies on a variety of types of stone or at Skaha in BC’s Okanagan Valley depending on weather conditions. 2 floating days off will be taken during the section and will be determined by the weather and energy levels.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Technical equipment familiarization | Climb a multi-pitch route |
| Hazard recognition and evaluation | Alpine rock climbing rope techniques |
| Guide book use | Basic short roping skills |
| Basic movement skills | Alpine rock scrambling skills |
| Top rope and lead belaying | Introduction to short roping |
| Anchor construction | Equipment care and storage |
| Rappelling | Advanced movement skills |
| Climbing communication | Basic rock rescue skills |
| Safety checks | Route selection |
| Traditional gear placement and evaluation | Indoor climbing skills |
| Lead climbing skills | Learn to teach basic climbing skills indoors |
| Cleaning routes | Grading systems |
| Multi-pitch skills |
Day 17: Day off in Canmore
Alpine Mountaineering
Day 18-24: Training at Columbia Icefields
What the Canadian Rockies are famous for! Instruction on glacier travel and crevasse rescue will progress into student-led climbs on the peaks of the Columbia Icefields area. Skills for climbing multi-pitch alpine ice routes will also be covered.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Crampon use | Student lead peak ascents |
| Self-arrest | Multi-pitch alpine route |
| Pacing | Ice anchors |
| Glacier travel | Ice screw placement and evaluation |
| Crevasse rescue | Alpine ice leading techniques |
| Route finding | Rope management in glaciated terrain |
| Hazard recognition and management | Route selection |
| Navigation practice |
Day 25-26: Days off in Canmore
Alpine Rock
Day 27-31: Alpine Rock Training Continued in the Bow Valley
We’ll spend an additional 5 days honing our alpine rock skills.
Alpine rock scrambling will be covered and is an important facet of mountaineering that requires an ability to quickly choose the appropriate technique for every situation so as to maximize both speed and safety. We will introduce peer short roping, natural belays, and other important alpine rock climbing techniques.
Day 32-33: Days off in Canmore
Alpine Expedition
Day 34-39: As a group, you will face the challenges of travelling and climbing in a new alpine region and putting to use the skills you have learned over the previous weeks. This trip is student lead with coaching and feedback from your guides. The first day of this section will be a prep day for the trip. Areas used in the past have been: Mt Joffre area, Freshfields area, Mt Forbes, Mt Brazeau as well as others.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Prepare food and equipment for an expedition | Refine mountain camping and cooking skills |
| Create and execute a trip plan | Receive feedback on leads |
| Lead an alpine climbing trip | Refine rock and ice skills learned |
| Mountain navigation practice | Hazard recognition and management |
| Peak ascent of a significant mountain |
Day 40-41: Days off in Canmore
Wilderness First Responder
Day 42-51: This 80-hour professional-level certification course is the benchmark first aid course for working in the outdoor industry. It includes extensive outdoor simulations and oxygen therapy. Those passing the exam are certified for three years. There will be a day’s break during the program which is intended for course study.
The following topics will be covered:
| Hands-on simulations | Improvisation Skills |
| Accident Management | Basic Search and Rescue |
| Long Term Care of the Sick and Injured | Patient Packaging |
| Evacuation techniques | Situation Leadership |
Course Break
Day 52-56: Your chance to take five days off and spend a little time on your own or plan a trip with some of your fellow group members.
Avalanche Skills Training – Level 1
Day 57-58: Based on the curriculum developed by Avalanche Canada the Avalanche Skills Training level 1 (AST1) will be the base for avalanche risk management for the remaining winter sections of the MSS. The first day will be theory in the Yamnuska classroom and the second day is hands-on in the field.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Introduction to avalanche phenomena | Safety equipment |
| Recognition of avalanche terrain | Transceiver checks |
| Use of “Avaluator” risk assessment tool | Transceiver practice |
| Changes in the mountain snowpack | Snow profiles and field tests |
| Regional differences in snowpacks | Route selection |
| Theory and use of avalanche beacons | Companion rescue practice |
Downhill Ski Skills
Day 59: Today will be spent at one of the local ski hills brushing up on downhill ski techniques and introducing safe skiing practices that can be used in the backcountry. Objectives will be adjusted for the groups’ ski ability.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Assess the groups ski ability | Manage difficult ski terrain safely |
| Provide downhill ski instruction and tips | Look at safe regrouping places |
| Get mileage downhill skiing | Choose appropriate pitch lengths to ski |
| Introduce kick turns |
Ski Mountaineering
Day 60-66: Adapting previously learned glacier travel skills into the winter ski setting will be the main goal of this section. The huts on the Wapta Icefields north of Lake Louise are the typical venue for this trip. Day one of this section is a prep day.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Hazard recognition and management | Track setting |
| Avalanche danger and stability assessment | Receive feedback on leads |
| Prepare food and equipment for an expedition | Route finding |
| Create and execute a trip plan | Glacier travel in the winter |
| Lead a ski mountaineering trip | Advanced crevasse rescue |
| Mountain navigation refinement | Whiteout route plans |
| Ski mountaineering ascents | Personal care in winter conditions |
Day 67-68: Days off in Canmore
Ice Climbing & Mixed Climbing
Day 69 – 76: Waterfall ice climbing has a different ambiance and feel from the climbing we’ve done up to this point. Roadside seeps and frozen waterfalls suddenly become spectacular climbing challenges. For this section, we base out of the Rampart creek hostel where we have numerous options for both ice and mixed climbing. We spend the first couple of days learning and refining the basic skills used for climbing this unique medium and then the pace is stepped up to the skills of leading and multi-pitch climbing.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Hazard recognition and evaluation | Multi-pitch skills for ice |
| Avalanche danger and stability assessment | Complete a multi-pitch route |
| Basic and advanced movement techniques | Introduction to mixed climbing |
| Review of cramponing techniques | Safe positioning of belays for ice climbing |
| Ice axe use and placement | Guide book use |
| Student top rope set up | Grading systems |
| Leading techniques for waterfall ice | Solidify technical skills from the rock section |
| Descending systems |
Day 77: Day off in Canmore
Avalanche Skills Training – Level 2
Day 78-83: This is the final section of the fall semester. Based on Avalanche Canada’s curriculum, the Avalanche Skills Training level 2 course provides advanced training in complex terrain. This section is focused on improving avalanche skills to a high level as we head into the steep and deep of the Rockies or the Selkirk Mountains. We look at the practical application of recognizing, evaluating, and avoiding avalanche hazards. The group will either be camping or using snow shelters. With the completion of this section, you will be well prepared to continue with the professional-level courses offered by Avalanche Canada or similar courses in other countries. Day one of this section will be a prep day and will cover more avalanche-related material in the classroom.
Objectives of this section will be:
| Prepare food and equipment | Receive feedback on leads in complex terrain |
| Create and execute a trip plan | Mountain navigation practice |
| Snow metamorphism | Safe decision making |
| Snow stability analysis | Safe ‘test’ skiing |
| Snow profiles, Rutsch blocks | Backcountry skiing |
| Shovel tests and additional field tests | Use of snow shelters |
| Weather, terrain and the snowpack | Refine mountain camping and cooking skills |
| Weather, snowpack and avalanche observations | Winter camping |
| Avalanche danger and stability assessment | Advanced group rescue practice |
| Hazard recognition and evaluation | Advanced Transceiver searches |
Course debrief day and graduation dinner in Canmore
Day 84: Individual interviews with the instructors to properly debrief the program and an opportunity to plan how to further develop your mountaineering skills and career. This will be followed by a celebratory graduation dinner where you will be congratulated and awarded your certificates from the program.
Departure
Day 85: The course is closed and students head their way after a great semester experience.
Course Location
The Yamnuska Mountain School is based in Canmore, Alberta, Canada in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains just minutes from Banff National Park. Section locations vary according to conditions but we typically range north to the Columbia Icefields, west to Rogers Pass in the Selkirk Mountains, and east along the edge of the Rockies in Kananaskis Country. Most program locations are within an hour’s drive from our office which means more time spent in the mountains.
Canmore is a vibrant mountain community with lots of great local flavour and community events. It is also a Mecca for the outdoor recreation enthusiast with the possibility of participating in almost any mountain sport that you can imagine, from paragliding to white-water kayaking and of course mountain biking! Located just one hour West of the city of Calgary, living in the mountains doesn’t mean isolation from modern conveniences like an international airport and a city full of major shows, events, and sports teams. And as the eastern border of the massive Mountain National Parks system, the abundance of nature and wildlife viewing opportunities is unmatched!
Please plan on arriving in Canmore at least the day before the Semester begins. At an elevation of around 1,300m, most people do not suffer any effects from the higher elevation, however, it is nice to have a few days to get your bearings before we begin the program.
Transportation
During the program, all transportation is supplied in modern 12 – 15 passenger vans. You are welcome to bring your own vehicles, however, for most program components it is best to drive with the group to the daily training locations. During evenings, on free days, and during the course break, transportation is not supplied.
Instructor Ratios
The instructor ratio (number of students per instructor) has a very large impact on the quality of the program. Ratios are selected based on the difficulty and hazard associated with the teaching terrain. In most sections, the ratio is 1:6 which is fine for single pitch climbing, general mountain, and ski mountaineering terrain. On multi-pitch climbs and for the advanced alpine mountaineering sections, the ratio will drop to 1:2.
Accommodation
Accommodation is mixed throughout the course. During much of the Semester, you will be out in the mountains camping, staying in mountain huts, hostels, and even snow caving. Between trips, we will be based out of Canmore, Alberta, and accommodation is not included. There will be approximately 40 nights where we will be based in Canmore and we can arrange budget hostel or hotel shared accommodation (with other MSS students) for these “in-town” nights for an additional cost.
We offer an option with fully equipped kitchens and lounge areas. Subject to availability.
Pricing:
Spring 2023: $2400.00 plus tax – Based at the Downtown Canmore Hostel, this venue is a great location within walking distance to all amenities and downtown Canmore in the beautiful Canadian Rockies.
Fall 2023: $2250 + GST. Based at the Downtown Canmore Hostel, this venue is a great location within walking distance to all amenities and downtown Canmore. This price is based on a dorm room accommodation with a private bathroom.
Dietary Restrictions – PLEASE NOTE: Our kitchen and the full-time chef can accommodate many different kinds of dietary restrictions, allergies, and food preferences. For those with specific menu requirements that need supplemental food items or individual pack-outs, there is a food surcharge. This would include Vegan, Gluten-Free, Nut Allergies, etc. This option does not cover gourmet or fully organic meal packages.
Spring 2023: $670 for the out-trip portion
Fall 2023: $845 for the out-trip portion
Equipment and Clothing
We are in a continental or inland climate that varies greatly in temperatures and weather. During the Fall Semester temperatures range from +20 Celsius through early September to -25 Celsius in late November and early December. Snow starts falling in mid to late October. We can, however, get early mountain snowstorms in September. During the Spring Semester, the temperatures in March can be down to -20 Celsius and gradually warm to summer-like days in June. Snowstorms switch to rain about mid-April. Bottom line is to be prepared for every type of mountain weather imaginable.
All group camping and all technical gear are supplied with the exception of ski gear, rock shoes, and climbing boots. Reasonably priced climbing boot rentals can be arranged during the course but you must make your own arrangements for backcountry ski gear rentals. We recommend Gear Up Sports (403-678-1636) for rentals. You will need to bring your own outdoor clothing and footwear, backpack, sleeping bag, and ski gear. Download Gear List (.pdf)
There are several outdoor stores in the area from which you can buy gear and clothing during the Semester. Valhalla Pure Outfitters and Vertical Addiction (both in Canmore) offer students a 10% discount.
Request an MSS Package here.
Before applying for the Semester you need to open and read the Semester Application Form and Booking and Cancellation Policies. This outlines the payment and enrollment process. You will need to download this form, complete it, and return it to us (mail or fax), even if you book online or by phone.
- Minimum enrollment is 6 students, an amended program may be offered should enrollment be less.
- $300 refundable gear damage deposit is required from all students.
- Tax Receipt issued for tuition costs.
- Ski Ability – you need to be an intermediate skier/boarder able to link together parallel turns down most intermediate slopes at the ski hill.
- Age restriction – students must be at least 18 years old for our Spring semester and 19 years old for our Fall semester.
Click here for Personal Information Form
Click here for the medical form
You can apply for this semester by calling us or online by using the button below.
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 (see sample waiver) which we will ask you to sign when you meet us.
Risk is an inherent part of all mountain activities. We strive to manage and reduce it however, it is impossible to totally eliminate. Learn more about our safety and risk management approach here.
Following interim acceptance of your application, you will also need to download the applicant questionnaire for you to fill in and our medical form to complete. Return both by fax or mail.
There are two basic types of insurance that most travellers need to consider: Medical and Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance. We offer our guests coverage for both and highly recommend you purchase it.
Emergency Medical Expenses Insurance:
It is wise to ensure that your health plan will cover you in case of illness or accident during your trip. Obtain extra coverage if necessary. There is no charge for rescue in the National and provincial Parks, however, costs such as air or ground transportation, long-term care, and other services are not covered.
Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance:
We recognize that our guests’ schedules may change for many reasons; business, family, flight delays, injuries, and other unplanned events. For these eventualities, Trip Cancellation/Interruption insurance is a great way to protect your investment.
For all your travel insurance requirements we recommend the Simpson Group. This agency offers a wide range of travel insurance options including Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Travel Medical, and Personal Effect Loss for Canadian and International Travelers. We highly recommend purchasing this insurance.
Dates:
PRICE:
2023: Spring
$15,995 CDN
2023: Fall
$16,995 CDN
Minimum enrolment is 6 students, an amended program may be offered should enrollment be less.
A $300 refundable gear damage deposit is required from all students.
Tax Receipt issued for tuition costs.
Price includes:
– Instruction from certified ACMG guides
– Course materials
– Use of all technical gear
– All transport
– National Parks Nightly Wilderness Pass for backcountry camping
– Park entrance fees
– All group camping gear (tents, stoves, etc)
– All backcountry accommodation (accommodation in Canmore is not included, packages available)
– All out-trip meals (meals while in Canmore are not included)
Certifications included:
– Avalanche Canada – Avalanche Skills Training 1 and 2 courses (AST 1 & 2)
– Rocky Mountain Adventure Medicine – Advanced Adventure Medic 80-hour Wilderness First Aid Course
– Yamnuska’s Mountain Skills Semester Certificate
Price does not include:
– 5% Goods & Services Tax
– Meals and accommodation while in Canmore, AB (accommodation package available)
– Costs of living during the 5-day course break
Prerequisites:
– An Intermediate Ski Ability – you can link together parallel turns down intermediate runs at a ski hill
– Splitboarders should be at an intermediate/advanced level of snowboarding at the resort and be able to handle flat sections and traverses. Our guides will be on skis but are familiar with splitboarding equipment. Splitboarders should have their downhill kick turns dialed, as this skill will be used frequently to traverse downhill and across slopes at mellow angles.
– Age restriction – you must be at least 19 years old for the Fall Semester and 18 years old for the Spring Semester
Please note you will be required to sign the Yamnuska Release of Liability, and Waiver of Claims prior to commencing the program. Please review the sample waiver prior to booking and call us with any questions.
Vision Statement of the Mountain Skills Semester:
The Mountain Skills Semester is dedicated to excellence and committed to delivering the technical proficiency required for students to become competent and safety-conscious mountain travellers. Technical mountain skills coupled with an opportunity to experience personal growth and challenge through mountain sport are the foundation of the semester. This intensive experience of learning and living in the mountains with a dedicated group of like-minded individuals will lead to a lifetime of opportunities both recreationally and professionally.
More information?
PLEASE DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT US IF YOU NEED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THIS COURSE!
Request an MSS Package here.
