Ski Mountaineering Course (SMC)
The Ski Mountaineering Course (SMC) is for alpinists serious about developing climbing and ski touring technique for winter high-alpine mountaineering. The 7-day course runs amongst the serious glaciated mountains of New Zealand's Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Course Objectives - Ski Touring and Climbing
The emphasis of the SMC is on technical instruction, and then applying what you have learned - climbing and ski touring. If conditions allow you have the opportunity to develop your powder technique. Weather permitting you will be summiting peaks, but we don't let this get in the way of doing a few turns!
Develop your Mountain Skill Base
The SMC makes a great addition to your skill base if you have already completed an MEC, TMC, or similar summer climbing course.
Instruction topics include:
- Avalanche hazard evaluation
- Uphill skinning technique
- Backcountry touring & route finding
- Mountain weather & forecasting
- Glacier travel and crevasse rescue
- Snow anchors
- Emergency shelters
Experience required:
- High level of aerobic fitness
- Strong-intermediate or better skier
- Basic rope & climbing skills
| Course | Dates |
|---|---|
| SMC1 | July 18-24 |
| SMC2 | Sept 05-11 |
| SMC3 | Sept 19-25 |
Courses run 7 days Sunday - Saturday
Check for available spaces ››
2010 Details
Price: NZ$2850 per person
7-day Course price includes:
All meals and snacks, aircraft access, accommodation, local transport, use of technical equipment, Alpine Guides Technical Manual.
Download Full Details Here (Adobe.pdf format)
Ski Mountaineering Course (450 Kb)
Pre-trip Information notes (700 Kb)
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Winter Course Options
Backcountry Avalanche Course | Ice Climbing Experience | Ski Mountaineering Course | Winter Mountain Skills Course
Winter Mountain Guiding Options
Alpine Ski Touring | Arrowsmith Range Ski Touring | Private Instruction & Guiding | Ascents Program
Summer 2009/10 ››
Introductory to advanced climbing courses, guided ascents and expeditions on NZ's highest peaks.
Winter Guiding & Courses ››
From ice climbing and ski mountaineering to avalanche courses and ski touring.
Download a brochure
