Ski Mountaineering Course
Alpine Guides' Ski Mountaineering Course (SMC) is for alpinists serious about developing winter climbing and ski touring technique. The 7-day course runs in the 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 of winter mountaineering and touring technique, and then applying what you have learned to climb and tour in glaciated alpine terrain.
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 enjoying a few turns.
Develop your Alpine Skill Base
The SMC makes a great addition to your skill base if you have already completed an MEC, TMC, or similar summer mountaineering course.
Aircraft access and exit costs are covered to maximise your time in the mountains.
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
AGL Skill Check
Difficulty
Endurance
Season: Winter (July- October)
Trip Type: Winter Course
Length: 7 days
Max Guide/Participant Ratio: 1:4
Maximum of 8 participants
Price NZ$3295 per person
Cost Includes:
- All meals and snacks
- Flights into AND out of the mountains
- Local accommodation
- Local transport
- Free use of a range of technical gear
- Alpine Guides Technical Manual ›
Winter 2013 Course Schedule
| Course | Dates |
|---|---|
| SMC 1 | July 14-20 |
| SMC 2 | July/Aug 28-03 |
| SMC 3 | Sept 01-07 |
| SMC 4 | Sept 08-14 |
| SMC 5 | Sept 15-21 |
Limited to 8 participants and 2 guides
