Ice climbing, mixed climbing, and mountaineering courses in the Sierra Nevada
Sierra Mountain Guides offers ice climbing courses at two California ice meccas: Lee Vining Canyon and June Lake. These exceptional climbing areas attract people from around the country for high quality routes and consistently good ice conditions. Check out our Ice Report for the latest conditions.
Ice Climbing 101
Introductory, 2 days Our two-day introduction to ice course is perfect for the first time ice climber and mountaineer looking to expand their skills.
Intermediate, 2 days "Ice 201" is a two-day advanced course geared towards those with previous ice climbing experience who are ready to take the next "mono point" step. This second level course picks up where our Ice Climbing 101 course left off and covers many of the advanced ice climbing skills and techniques. READ MORE
Mixing it Up!
Advanced, 2 days Let the sparks fly! Modern mixed climbing is the most fun variation of ice climbing ever invented. Lee Vining Canyon also happens to be a unique and special venue for climbing both ice and solid granite simultaneously with ice tools and crampons. READ MORE
Winter Mountaineering Seminar
Intermediate, 5 days This five-day intensive skills seminar is based in the Eastern Sierra.We use waterfall ice in Lee Vining Canyon and the mountains of the Eastern Sierra as an ideal training ground for working the progression from the basic skills to real mountaineering applications. READ MORE
Sawtooths Mountaineering Seminar
Intermediate, 4 days
This five-day seminar is based in the spectacular Sawtooth Range where we will learn the skills to travel the big peaks in any conditions. We focus on firm alpine snow climbing and rocky ridge traverses in a spectacular venue. READ MORE
AMGA Alpine Guides Course
Eastern Sierra
Intermediate, 10 days The Alpine Guides Course provides the foundation needed to work towards becoming a Certified Alpine Guide. With an in-depth, hands-on approach to the mechanics of guiding on alpine terrain, we teach technical guiding skills during a number of alpine ascents. READ MORE
AIARE Avalanche Courses
Levels 1-3 Be honest with yourself and don't try to cut corners. If you've never taken a course before or are just starting out, consider a basic course as a beginning rather than trying to cut corners and taking a more advanced course. READ MORE
