Mastering Alpine Snow and Ice Skills in New Hampshire’s White Mountains
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
1–2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with stamina for hiking in snow and carrying technical gear.
Overview
Learn essential winter mountaineering skills in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. This Alpine Snow and Ice Skills course in Conway preps you to confidently navigate snowy peaks with expert guidance and hands-on training.
Alpine Snow and Ice Skills
1 or 2 Days • Join Us!
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About This Adventure
Elevate your climbing skills in this intermediate course, perfect for those with prior experience. Tackle classic multi-pitch ascents in the stunning White Mountains while mastering essential techniques like gear placements and route finding. Complete this adventure and prepare to conquer more challenging alpine routes in the breathtaking Presidential Range.
Intermediate level course is for climbers who have taken our basic course or have previous multi-pitch climbing experience.
About
Alpine climbing requires the use of a variety of climbing skills to negotiate snow, rock and ice terrain. You should already be familiar with anchors, belaying, knots, and ice climbing equipment. Both days will involve ascents of classic multi pitch alpine climbs in the White Mountains. This intermediate level course is for climbers who have taken our basic course or have previous multi-pitch climbing experience.
Topics of instruction will include gear placements (snow, rock and ice), rope management, time management, belay techniques and route finding. After completing these climbs, climbers should be capable of moving on to more difficult alpine routes in Huntington Ravine and throughout the Presidential Range.
Adventure Tips
Dress in moisture-wicking, layered clothing
Layering prevents overheating and keeps you dry during variable mountain weather.
Carry and know how to use an ice axe
An ice axe is critical for self-arrest techniques on icy slopes.
Check weather and avalanche forecasts before heading out
White Mountains weather changes fast; always plan with current conditions in mind.
Practice crampon walking on flat terrain before ascending steep slopes
Getting comfortable with crampons on easy ground reduces risk on challenging terrain.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Snowshoe hare
- Eastern chipmunk
History
Mount Washington Observatory, established in 1870, marks a legacy of extreme weather study in the region.
Conservation
The course emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to preserve fragile alpine zones during winter travel.
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Adventure Hotspots in Conway
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Mountaineering boots
Stiff, insulated boots provide stability and warmth on snow and ice.
winter specific
Crampons
Necessary for traction on ice and hard-packed snow.
winter specific
Ice axe
Used for balance and self-arrest on icy slopes.
winter specific
Helmet
Protects against falling ice and slips during climbs.
winter specific