Intermediate Ice

In this course you will learn the skills and concepts required to 'second' a single or multi-pitch ice climb to grade 3 in difficulty. Upon completion you should be confident and capable of participating in a multi-pitch climb and a rappel descent with a greater ability, capable of leading a grade 3 ice wall.

Practical Skills Learned During This Course

• A review of skills learned in Ice 2 Course.
• Techniques required to ascend, traverse and descend steep ice, safely and quickly.
• The various types of ice climbing tools and hardware used in ice climbing. Their placement, removal and maintenance.
• Technique of Single vs. Double rope, racking and sorting of hardware.
• Seconding a lead ice climb and removing protection.
• Entering and departing multi-point anchors on multi-pitch climbs.
• Team movement in pitch climbing.
• Rappelling down an ice wall.

Essential Information

Group Size: 4 Participants, Minimum of 2.

Course Length: 2 Days, 1 Evening.

Location:  Batchawana Area. or South Bay

Prerequisites: Ice 2 or equivalent.

Theoretical Skills Learned During This Course

• What is pitch and multi-pitch climbing on ice and the role of the seconding climber.
• Understanding the principles behind the placement of protection and multi-point anchors.
• How to plan an ice climb, selection of gear, role of guidebooks, route finding and partner selection.