The Winter Mountaineering Course – Level 2 is aimed at people who already have basic knowledge and experience in the winter mountains and want to build on their skills for movement, safety, and handling more complex winter conditions.
The training has a strong focus on practice and real situations in the mountains.
Course program
1. Refining ice axe and crampon technique: Techniques for moving on steep snowy and icy terrain, correct body position, and choosing a safe line to cross.
2. Self-arrest after a fall: Practical exercises in stopping an uncontrolled slide on a snow slope with an ice axe from different positions.
3. Building snow anchors: Core methods for building reliable anchor points in snow conditions. Working with an ice axe and other suitable tools depending on the condition and structure of the snow.
4. Belaying and rope work: Core belaying techniques for crossing more complex sections. Group organization and safety when moving roped up.
5. Building a snow shelter: Choosing a suitable site and practical techniques for building a snow cave or other emergency shelter.
6. Overnight in a snow cave: A practical overnight stay in the shelter you built. Preparing for the night, organizing your gear, insulation from the snow, ventilation, and managing moisture and cold.
7. Survival and emergency response: How to respond to a sudden change in weather, getting lost, being forced to stay in the mountains, or being unable to continue along the planned route.
8. Navigation in difficult winter conditions: Practical navigation in reduced visibility, snowfall, and the absence of clear landmarks.
9. Route choice and terrain assessment: Recognizing potentially dangerous sections and choosing a suitable line of movement based on snow and weather conditions.
10. Decision-making in a real environment: Participants will be placed in various practical situations where they must assess the conditions, the risk, and the group's abilities on their own, and decide whether to continue, change the route, or turn back.
Main goal
The goal of Level 2 is for participants to build on their core knowledge and gain practical skills for handling more challenging situations in the winter mountains.
The course places emphasis on self-sufficiency, sound judgment, working with technical equipment, and the ability to respond appropriately when conditions don't go according to plan.
Price: 150 € per person — avalanche equipment is included in the price.
Not included: transport, overnight stay, drinks and personal consumables, and other expenses of a personal nature.