Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue in Strathcona, BC
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–12 hours depending on chosen course length
Fitness Level
Participants should have good cardiovascular endurance and be comfortable with sustained physical activity in cold environments.
Overview
Master essential glacier travel and rescue skills on this guided course in Strathcona Provincial Park. Choose from a focused one-day session or a detailed two-day experience tailored for mountaineers and backcountry adventurers.
Glacier Travel and Crevasse Rescue Course
Ages 18+ • 1 Day • Essential training for safe glacier travel and effective crevasse rescue
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating one-day Crevasse Rescue Course, perfect for mountaineers and backcountry adventurers. Gain essential skills for safe glacier travel and effective rescue techniques in a hands-on environment. Opt for the immersive two-day experience in Strathcona backcountry to deepen your knowledge and confidence in glacier navigation and emergencies.
Ideal for adventurers planning glacier or mountaineering trips
Duration
1 day
About
This Crevasse Rescue Course provides essential training for safe glacier travel and effective crevasse rescue. Designed for mountaineers, backcountry skiers, and alpine climbers, this course builds practical rescue skills and confidence in handling glacier emergencies. The one-day course covers essential techniques, while the two-day option includes advanced skills and real-world application in the Strathcona backcountry.
Overview: Our avalanche courses are designed for participants of all fitness levels and experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced backcountry enthusiast, these courses provide essential avalanche safety knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on training in a supportive environment.
Fitness Level:
Beginner: Suitable for those new to avalanche safety or backcountry travel. The course will cover the basics of avalanche awareness, rescue techniques, and decision-making in simple terrain.
Ideal for adventurers planning glacier or mountaineering trips, this course offers comprehensive, hands-on training. Choose the one-day fundamentals option or the immersive two-day experience in Strathcona backcountry to build confidence for glacier travel and crevasse rescue. With a focus on practical skills and real-world scenarios, this course is designed to prepare climbers for safe, efficient glacier navigation.
More info
Fitness Level Requirements: Moderate; able to carry gear and walk on snow or glacier terrain
Experience Level Requirements: Basic mountaineering or climbing knowledge recommended
Included
ACMG certified instructor
Avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe (available upon request)
Not Included
Required Gear: Avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe (can be provided if needed).
Backcountry Gear: Touring skis or splitboard, boots, skins, poles.
Clothing: Warm layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, toque, and face covering.
Personal Items: Daypack, water, lunch/snacks, sunglasses or goggles, sunscreen.
Adventure Tips
Layer Up for Cold Conditions
Wear moisture-wicking base layers and insulated shells to stay warm and dry during glacier travel.
Familiarize Yourself with Rope Knots
Practice key knots like the figure-eight and Prusik before the course to maximize on-site learning.
Check Weather and Avalanche Reports
Strathcona’s weather can change quickly; ensure conditions are safe before heading out.
Bring a Personal Crevasse Rescue Kit
Carrying your own pulleys, prusiks, and harness speeds up rescue drills and improves safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mountain goats
- Marmots
History
Strathcona Provincial Park was established as British Columbia’s first provincial park in 1911 and remains a cherished wild landscape for mountaineering.
Conservation
The area is managed to protect sensitive alpine ecosystems and minimize human impact, with educational efforts included in courses like this to promote responsible recreation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Comox
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Mountaineering Boots
Stiff, insulated boots provide support and warmth necessary for glacier travel.
winter specific
Climbing Harness
A reliable harness is crucial for practicing rescues and rope techniques safely.
Crampons
Essential for traction on glacier ice, especially on steep or slippery sections.
winter specific
Helmet
Protects against falling ice and rock during glacier travel and rescue drills.