Do I need to bring a lunch?

Yes, you should bring a sack lunch and water bottle for this course.

What safety standards do you have?

At Alpenglow, we have only the highest standards of safety and guide qualifications. All of our rock climbing trips are led by AMGA certified SPI’s (single pitch instructors), certified rock instructors or certified rock guides. Our guides have extensive experience and knowledge with technical climbing equipment and risk management to ensure a safe day in the mountains! Furthermore, every Alpenglow program is supervised by an internationally licensed mountain guide (IFMGA/UIAGM). Alpenglow Expeditions is the only guide service in the region with such high standards, your family’s safety is our our top priority.

What is your local adventures cancellation policy?

Please click here to review our domestic cancellation policy

What is the typical group size for this trip?

Group sizes can vary depending on the course, however our maximum ratio of clients to guides is 5:1.

Where can I purchase trip insurance?

We strongly recommend that you purchase trip insurance to protect your activity purchase against unforeseeable circumstances. We recommend Spot as a provider of trip insurance. Spot is a 3rd party provider and is not affiliated with Alpenglow Expeditions – please refer to the Spot website or contact Spot directly for all terms and conditions.

Intro To Tahoe Mountaineering Course

Guide teaches a group of students Mountaineering skills, like glacier travel and crevasse rescue, near Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada mountains with Alpenglow Expeditions' Tahoe mountain guides.

Intro To Mountaineer-ing in Lake Tahoe

$275Per Person, MON – THU

$325Per Person, FRI – SUN

Introductory 1 full day (8 hours) North Lake Tahoe, CA

Learn basic mountaineering skills with our Tahoe mountain guides in just one day! Learn the technical skills necessary to begin your alpine climbing journey. This beginner mountaineering course can be combined with Glacier Travel and Crevasse Rescue to be a fully complete two-day course.

March 1, 2025

Inquire

Guide shows rope skills during an Intro to Mountaineering course near Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada mountains with Alpenglow Expeditions' Tahoe mountain guides.

Lake Tahoe Intro to Mountaineering Course

California Intro To Mountaineering Course Overview

This Introduction To Mountaineering course, based in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, is designed to teach basic mountaineering skills and prepare aspiring mountaineers for the high-altitude peaks they dream of climbing around the world.

While these mountaineering skills can be developed on one of our International Climbing Schools (Ecuador Climbing School, Mexico Climbing School, and Peru Climbing School), building a solid mountaineering foundation here in California sets climbers up for even more success as they add in the factors of high altitude and expedition climbing to their climbing experience.

INTRO TO MOUNTAINEERING COURSE GOALS:
– Introduce basic concepts of snow and ice climbing
– Become familiar with equipment choices, use and inspection.
– Practice knots, hitches and basic ropework

Climbing a snow-covered peak can be difficult, and the specific challenges that we typically encounter can easily add unnecessary time or risk to your day. After hundreds of expeditions all over the world, our Tahoe mountain guides know what works and what doesn’t work. This mountaineering course is crafted to deliver the skills, knowledge and techniques necessary to start (or further) you mountaineering career.

MOUNTAINEERING SKILLS YOU WILL LEARN:
– Introduction to the alpine environment
– Hazard recognition
– Overview of equipment
– Moving over steep snow
– Crampons and Ice axe use
– Diagonal and direct ascent and descent
– Self arrest
– Basic Ropework
– Knots and hitches
– Snow and anchors
– Belaying and rappelling
– Guided vs non-guided ropework
– Strategies to increase security

Don’t have all the necessary gear? For this course we provide technical gear free of charge on a first come first serve basis. This includes harness, helmet, mountaineering axe, and more.

THE ALPENGLOW DIFFERENCE

As a Tahoe-based guide company with countless expeditions to high-altitude peaks around the world over the last 15 years, we bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to our beloved home mountains. Our teaching and guiding philosophy has been honed from the flanks of the Himalayan giants to the technical peaks of Peru, and we are beyond excited to be able to bring our program to this fantastic mountain. In addition to our international expedition roots, we are accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), being one of the very few guide services in the region to hold such a high standard. Each of our guides is trained by the AMGA in the terrain in which they operate, and the program is supervised by internationally licensed IFMGA mountain guides. This high standard, along with our many years of experience, translates to a fantastic mountain adventure!

Alpenglow Expeditions operates under special use permit with the Tahoe, Eldorado, Inyo, Humboldt-Toiyable and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Preparation

Fitness

Excellent physical fitness is required. Climbers must be able to hike for a few hours while carrying a pack.

Technical

While a background in climbing is helpful, it is not required for this introductory course.

8-9AM: Morning Meeting
Meet and great, discuss groups climbing experience and goals/dreams, schedule of the day/curriculum, principles and importance of Leave no Trace outdoor ethics.
9-10AM: Intro to Mountaineering
The learning begins with a discussion on the different styles of mountain climbing, and the differences in equipment options and selection of equipment based on objective
Helmet (ski vs. climb), Harness (light weight vs heavy rock), Axe (length, style, 1vs.2), Crampons (Steel, Aluminum, Hybrid, Attachment style), Boots (Single, Double, etc), Apparel and Packing fundamentals.
10-3:30PM: Field Session
Moving to the field, we get down to business. Skills covered are:
– Introduce Crampons, the importance of good footwork and simple movement progression on moderate angle snow.
– Introduce the Ice Axe, its purpose, how to hold (self-belay vs self-arrest), and how to integrate into the movement progression.
– Further refine the movement progression, both diagonal and direct ascent.
– Self-arrest practice, while stressing the importance of careful climbing to avoid falls.
– Introduction to the rope:
– When to add a rope to the system
– Actual vs perceived security
– Basic types of ropes, rigging and their application
– Knots and hitches
– Basic snow anchors and belays
– Rappelling
3:30-4PM: Course Close
Review of skills taught
Next Steps
Limitations of course

Alpenglow’s Tahoe Mountain Guides

Our High Sierra Guides.

Meet who you will be climbing in the High Sierras with.

FAQs

Tahoe Intro To Mountaineering Course Questions

The answers to all of our most commonly asked questions about our Intro To Mountaineering course in the High Sierras.

: Yes, you should bring a sack lunch and water bottle for this course.
: At Alpenglow, we have only the highest standards of safety and guide qualifications. All of our rock climbing trips are led by AMGA certified SPI’s (single pitch instructors), certified rock instructors or certified rock guides. Our guides have extensive experience and knowledge with technical climbing equipment and risk management to ensure a safe day in the mountains! Furthermore, every Alpenglow program is supervised by an internationally licensed mountain guide (IFMGA/UIAGM). Alpenglow Expeditions is the only guide service in the region with such high standards, your family’s safety is our our top priority.
: Please click here to review our domestic cancellation policy
: Group sizes can vary depending on the course, however our maximum ratio of clients to guides is 5:1.
: We strongly recommend that you purchase trip insurance to protect your activity purchase against unforeseeable circumstances. We recommend Spot as a provider of trip insurance. Spot is a 3rd party provider and is not affiliated with Alpenglow Expeditions – please refer to the Spot website or contact Spot directly for all terms and conditions.

Equipment

Intro to Mountaineering Equipment List

Here’s what you’ll need for mountaineering in the High Sierras.

Download Equipment Link

Select a category

Hat
Bring your favorite baseball hat for shelter from the sun. No white under the brim – the reflection off of it from the sun is blinding.
Recommended: Alpenglow Hat
Beanie
A comfortable, warm well-fitting hat that covers your ears. Make sure that one of your hats fits under a helmet.
Recommended: Black Diamond Levels Beanie
Neck Gaiter (Buff)
A multi-purpose neck gator that can also be worn under your hat. Make sure that it covers as much skin as possible and yet is still comfy.
Recommended: Alpenglow Buff
Balaclava
We recommend a tight-fitting balaclava that is worn under your hat. Make sure that it covers as much skin as possible, but is comfortable enough to wear for hours.
Recommended: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Balaclava
Sunglasses
Must have dark lenses. Minimal light should come in below, above, or around the sides of the lenses.“Wrap” style is best. Ventilation is important and a retainer strap is very useful (Chums or Croakies).
Recommended: Vuarnet Ice Rounds
Liner Gloves
These gloves keep the inside of your mitts or other gloves from accumulating sweat on the inside and turning inside out when you take them off, as well as provide additional insulation.
Recommended: Black Diamond Lightweight Screentap Liners
Lightweight Gloves
All-around gloves for mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and hiking. These gloves (and similar options) are warm, wind-resistant, durable and have a sure grip. You will rarely take these gloves off. They should be snug-fitting, and have some sort of reinforced palm.
Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Softshell Gloves
Midweight Gloves
These gloves should be full GORE-TEX®, and insulated. These will be the workhorse glove for any expedition.
Recommend: Black Diamond Tour Gloves
or Black Diamond Terminator Gloves
Warm Socks
A wool synthetic blend. Pure rag wool socks are not nearly as effective in wicking moisture or retaining their shape and reducing blisters. Bring a few pairs of these socks. NO COTTON.
Recommended: Darn Tough Mountaineering Sock
General Mountaineering Boot
Should be warm single boots that have a stiff sole and accept a step-in crampon. The boots should be comfortable, have adequate wiggle room for your toes, and your heel should not lift more than 1/8 of an inch when walking.
Recommended: La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX
Lightweight Top
Ultra-light base layer that effectively wicks moisture away from your body and is breathable. Quick-dry is important as well. One light-colored shirt is recommended for extremely sunny days.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Lightwire Short Sleeve
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Lightwire Short Sleeve
Sun Hoodie
Lightweight, long-sleeve sun hoody that is great for protecting from the sun.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoody
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoody
Lightweight Baselayer Top
A long sleeve base layer that is fitted, lightweight and quick drying. Make sure it is long enough to tuck in.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Solution 150 Merino Crew
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Solution 150 Merino Crew
Mid-Weight Warm Layer Top
This mid-layer will be worn over your base layer most of the trip.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Coefficient LT Quarter Zip Pullover
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Coefficient LT Quarter Zip Pullover
Mid-Weight Puffy Jacket
A simple, lightweight puffy jacket. This item is good for layering systems and staying warm. We recommend 800-fill down that is packable and resists inclement weather.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Approach Down Hoody
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Approach Down Hoody
Soft Shell Jacket
More breathable than Gore-tex, these soft shell jackets block wind and light precipitation and are great as an outer layer and warm layer under your parka.
Men’s Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Women’s Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Hard Shell Jacket
A lightweight, waterproof and breathable jacket WITH A HOOD that can withstand extreme weather conditions. Make sure you have pit-zips and if you are using an old jacket, re-waterproof it.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Shell
Lightweight Baselayer Bottoms
Fitted and quick drying. This piece will be a base-layer that will get you through a wide range of temperatures. This can be 3/4 length bottoms if preferred.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Baselayer
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Solution 150 Merino Baselayer
Soft-Shell Alpine Pant
You will spend most of your days in these pants. They should be breathable + water-resistant.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Alpine Pants
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Alpine Pants
Hard Shell Climbing Pant
Your waterproof bottom layer for extreme weather days. Make sure you have water-resistant zippers, crampon patches + good pockets.
Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Recon Stretch Pants
Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Recon Stretch Pants
Mountaineering Harness
Must have belay loop, gear loops and adjustable leg loops so that you can layer up underneath it. Easy to pack, lightweight + comfortable. *Harnesses are also available to rent (for our introductory climbing courses) at no charge from Alpenglow expeditions on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Recommended: Black Diamond Couloir
Mountaineering Crampons
Steel crampons with anti-balling plates are required (so that snow does not build-up in the base of your foot). Make sure that crampons have a heel bail and that they fit snugly on your ski or snowboard boots. Crampons are available to rent (for our introductory climbing courses) at no charge from Alpenglow Expeditions on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Recommended: Black Diamond Sabretooth Crampons
General Mountaineering Axe
One non-technical climbing axe. The tool should be approx. 55cm- 65cm long and comfortable to hold. *Ice axes are also available to rent (for our introductory climbing courses) at no charge from Alpenglow expeditions on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Recommended: Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe
Helmet
An easily adjustable lightweight helmet that fits with hat and Balaclava. Make sure this is a climbing-specific helmet. *Climbing helmets are also available to rent (for our introductory climbing courses) at no charge from Alpenglow Expeditions on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Recommended: Black Diamond Vapor Helmet
Technical Kit
While the technical equipment needed for a specific objective and season varies, this basic kit is a great baseline. Your guide will bring gear for you to use during your course, but participants are encouraged to bring some or all of this if you own it or are interested in purchasing it.
1 Cordalette (6mm x 5m/16.4′)
4 locking carabiners
2 non-locking carabiners
1 double-length Dyneema sling
Small prusik loop (6mm x 112cm/44″)
Auto-blocking belay device (eg. ATC guide)
Micro Traxion or similar
Hydration System
Should carry 70-100 ounces. Must be durable and have a reliable closure system. Recommended: MSR Dromlite 2L with Hydration Tube
Two 1L Nalgene Bottles
Two 1 Liter Wide Mouth Nalgene bottles.
Recommended: Nalgene 1 L wide mouth
Climbing Pack: 50-60L
Internal frame pack that is between 50 and 60 liters. Either purchase a matching pack cover, or use garbage bags as liners. Make sure the pack is fitted to YOUR body.
Recommended: Black Diamond Speed 50L Pack

Testimonials

Alpenglow is the best
“I’ve been climbing with Alpenglow for over ten years. After my first expedition, I knew I’d found the best team. I feel like I’m a member of the Alpenglow family, and have come to know and love many of their guides, office staff, and programs. Alpenglow is truly the best!”
Evan M

More Adventures

An early morning photo of Mount Shasta covered in snow with a blue sky above during an Alpenglow Expeditions guided trip on Mount Shasta.

Mount Shasta Mountaineering School

Introductory Next Available
June 12-16, 2025 5 Days Mt. Shasta, CA

Mountaineer peering into a crevasse on Mount Shasta during an Intro To Mountaineering course with Alpenglow Expeditions

Mount Shasta West Face Climb

Intermediate Next Available
April 25-27, 2025 3 Days Mount Shasta, CA

A group of mountaineering students during a Mount Shasta 5-day mountaineering course with Alpenglow Expeditions.

Mount Shasta Avalanche Gulch Climb

Intermediate Next Available
May 3-4, 2025 2 days Mount Shasta, CA

Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue Course

Introductory Next Available
March 2, 2025 1 full day (8 hours) North Lake Tahoe, California

All Stories

Breaking Trail: Interviewing Alpenglow Expeditions’ Outdoor Representation Scholarship Recipients
Read the story
Last Chance for Aconcagua ’24/’25
If your sights are set on the Himalaya, Aconcagua is the perfect training ground. Standing at 6,962 meters (22,841 feet), it’s the highest peak outside of Asia and an essential climb for those preparing for the world’s tallest mountains. Alpenglow Expeditions’ Rapid Ascent approach offers a highly efficient way to tackle this peak, utilizing advanced acclimatization techniques and a condensed schedule to prepare you for higher altitudes without requiring months away from home.
Read the story
A Game of Patience: Waiting for a Window on Cho Oyu
In 2024, after a five-year hiatus, Alpenglow Expeditions returned to Cho Oyu with a determined team—and despite a season marked by unpredictable weather, we secured a 100% summit success rate. Cho Oyu, the sixth-highest peak in the world, hasn’t seen us since 2019, but this year we were ready to face whatever the mountain threw at us. And it delivered.
Read the story
The Duffel Shuffle: A Mountain Podcast from Alpenglow Expeditions
Did you know that the Duffel Shuffle Podcast is your go-to source for behind-the-scenes stories from the world of adventure travel and high-altitude expeditions? Hosted by Adrian Ballinger and Sam Kieckhefer, this podcast dives into the unique perspectives of climbers, skiers, and adventurers who push the limits in some of the world’s most extreme environments.
Read the story
Alpenglow Introduces Type 1 Fun to the Menu with the Japan Backcountry Ski
we’ve decided to take a refreshing step into Type 1 fun with our Japan Backcountry Ski Expedition. Unlike the intense experiences of high-mountain summits and technical climbs, this trip offers pure enjoyment in one of the world’s most picturesque winter wonderlands: the deep powder of Hokkaido, Japan.
Read the story