Ropework for Tourers and Freeriders
Learn LEVEL | 1 day(s) | Ratio 1:6
Overview
As we explore more and more of the Scottish backcountry it is inevitable that we will come across steeper slopes. Whilst skiing on steeper terrain is a rewarding challenge in itself, the technical skills to access these runs can at time be bewildering. Using a rope is an obvious choice when your not prepared to simply ‘huck’ the cornice, and whilst catching big air is appropriate in the bottomless powder of Valdez it is not the smart choice in Scotland.
DETAILED INFO
AIMS
This is a very intensive course, it has been designed to give you an introduction to the technical skills of managing steeper slopes in both ascent and descent. The focus of this course will be on the ropework and belaying techniques that can be used by off piste skiers and ski tourers. How to actually ski on steeper terrain is covered in our Advanced Off Piste course. Staff Our ski staff are among some of the most experienced coaches, instructors and mountain guides working in Scotland and the alps. They will hold a variety of qualifications, which may include: Scottish Ski Mountain leader, BASI Instructor and IFMGA Mountain Guide. But most importantly they love skiing and enjoy sharing their extensive knowledge with you.
PRE-REQUISITES
Ski Technique/Level 2: You have been skiing for several weeks/years and are now confident on blue and red runs, controlling your speed by changing the size of your turns. Black runs are challenging but you are capable of skiing them under control by using skiddy turns perhaps with the occasional step or jump. Skiing off piste is a normal part of a days skiing but you are very much learning how to cope but mostly remaining upright. Your turns shape and size off-piste are very much dependent on the type of snow and terrain.
Mountain 2 – Experience of using touring bindings and skins is necessary. Some experience of ice axe and crampons may be necessary. For skiers, coping techniques such as side slipping and stem turns are essential and should be well practiced and reliable. Uphill and down hill kick turns may be familiar but require further practice.
Fitness 1 – As a skier you are capable of skiing all day with regular rests without noticing a significant drop in your technique through fatigue. You are capable of hiking in soft snow with skis on your back or skinning uphill for 2 – 3 hours (600 – 800m). A moderately heavy rucksack 5 – 8kgs will be carried during your course.
CONTENT
Over the course of the day we will be covering the following areas – as this day has a lot of technical material you should expect a mix of classroom and practical sessions.
Basics of using a rope as an emergency tool, with and without harnesses
Use of a rope: abseiling on skis, breaching cornices.
Snow anchors: using skis and ice axes to build belays for ascent & descent.
The course will be largely practical, with ‘workshop’ sessions run on the hill, this is the best way to keep the context relevant to your ambitions. This course does not include glacier travel or crevasse rescue techniques, but is an excellent course to attend before our dedicated glacier travel course.
Media Gallery
USEFUL INFORMATION
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Instruction
Use of kit
Packed lunch and afternoon tea each day
In-course transport
WHAT'S INCLUDED IF YOU CHOOSE THE RESIDENTIAL OPTION - AS ABOVE PLUS
Accommodation in an en-suite bedroom (available from 4pm on day before your course starts). If booking as an Individual, you will not be asked to share with a stranger.
Breakfast on each course day (except one day and back-to-back courses).
Dinner on each course day (except the final day, and on one day or back-to-back courses).
Use of the facilities at Glenmore Lodge.
Linen is provided along with a towel, you may wish to bring an extra towel if you would like to use the facilities.
NEED TO KNOW
WHAT WILL I NEED
The key to happiness and enjoyment in ski touring is having the right equipment so you can cope with whatever the environment throws at you. At Glenmore Lodge we are extremely fortunate to be partnered with Aromic skis and Scarpa ski boots. These partnerships allow us to maintain a modern range of ski touring boots and skis in our purpose built ski store, giving you the opportunity to try before you buy.
* Starred Items are available to borrow from GL Stores
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT
- *Skis with touring bindings, skins and ski crampons
- *Ski Poles – ideally fixed length
- *Ski Mountaineering Boots – for example Scarpa Maestrale 2 or Maestrale RS2
- *Helmet – Optional
- *Ice Axe 45cm– for example Petzl Snowracer
- *Avalanche Transceiver – for example Pieps DSP Sport or Pro
- *3m Probe and Shovel
PERSONAL CLOTHING
- Waterproof Jacket – breathable, Goretex Proshell is ideal.
- Waterproof Ski Trousers
- Thermal Bottoms, thermal Tops – long sleeves
- Mid Layers – Fleece or synthetic
- Soft Shell or fleece Jacket
- *Lightweight Belay Jacket
- Sun hut and Warm Hat
- Sunglasses
- Ski Goggles
- Warm Gloves: Thick and Thin
- Ski Socks
- *Compass and whistle – your Guide will have all the necessary maps and guidebooks
- Headtorch
- *Rucksack – 35 – 45 litres.
- Waterbottle or Flask.
- Suncream and Lip Salve – SPF 30 minimum
- Personal first aid – some tape, Compeed, plaster for blisters and your own pain relief (aspirin, ibuprofen, paracetamol)
- Camera
- Casual clothing for wearing in the centre
- We have a small pool & climbing wall – so any relevant kit (including spare towel)
