The mind does funny things at 4 a.m. It asks questions. Why am I up at this hour? How tall is this peak, exactly? You know the answers. It's time to climb. Slowly the peaks light up in unearthly beauty. Sunrise amazes your eyes. But your time to marvel is over as you face the first serious pitch, a granite ridge that you ascend with a fixed-line. Can I do this? You know you can.
A steep snowfield is next, and beyond that, loose rock up to the summit. Keep your focus and concentration, one foot in front of the other. You approach cautiously, but you've learned the skills, earned the self-confidence. You've got the strength to tackle terrain most people only stare at in postcards and picture books. And then you summit. It's the top of the world. You made it because you reached for it.
Come climb the snow-capped peaks in Washington's amazing Northern Cascades. Practice mountain rescue techniques in the Colorado Rockies, or cross glaciers and crevasses on the remote peaks of Alaska or the Chilean Andes. Surround yourself with the world's most incredible mountain environments. Outward Bound mountaineering means pure challenge, adventure and skills; all within your grasp.
This 30-day course is our most extensive and technical Alpine Mountaineering course offered during the summer months. It is designed to provide a thorough introduction to mountaineering and an intense Outward Bound experience. The course is ideal for those who are motivated by the true spirit of adventure and have a strong desire to push their personal limits, not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well.
Activities: Mountaineering, peak attempt, low-impact camping, rock climbing, solo and final expedition
Lengths: 30 days
Ages: 18-22, 16-18
This two- or three-week mountaineering expedition in the North Cascades offers students seeking a bit more physical challenge a chance to explore the breathtaking mountain range known as the “American Alps”. Course includes a focus on technical skills including rock climbing and class will include a peak attempt. This course achieves higher altitude and more significant physical challenge than the two week North Cascades Backpacking course.
Activities: Mountaineering, peak attempt, low-impact camping, rock climbing, solo, service and final expedition
Lengths: 14 days, 22 days
Ages: 16-18, 18-22
This is 10-day, or a two or three week Mountaineering expedition in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Mountaineering is distinct from backpacking in that you achieve higher altitude and attempt peak ascent requiring technical assistance. Both the altitude and the technical gear make this course one of Outward Bound’s most challenging physically. Ideal students are fit, motivated and ready to take on challenge.
Activities: Mountaineering, peak attempt, low-impact camping, rock climbing, solo and final expedition
Lengths: 22 days, 14 days
Ages: 18-22, 16-18, 23+
