Rope skills and Knots for the Alpine

Overview:

This trip is meant to give members an introduction to the knots and rope skills needed for glacier travel and other alpine ventures. The focus will be on

1. Learning knots useful in an alpine environment
2. Learning haul systems for crevasse rescue

Kathleen and I will give demonstrations and overviews of both of the above. Then, we'll split into groups and practice the skills. There are two identical sessions posted in August.

If you want to get a little headstart, these are some of the knots we will be using. You don't need a rope to practice these, you can use any piece of string, ribbon, shoelace, etc. 

Who is this trip for:

This trip is open to anyone interested in learning the skills mentioned above. However, if you are planning to go on the later glacier skills course you must attend one of the two ropes practices. You are welcome, and encouraged to attend both for more practice and to help others learn. Please note that attending doesn't guarantee you a spot on the glacier skills course.

Where and when:

We'll be practicing at the Pirie Street Playground It is a 30 min walk from campus, or a short bus ride. We'll be starting at 5pm and going until 8 pm or so (depending on stoke). It's ok to show up late, just keep in mind you may not learn much if you show up 15 minutes before we wrap up.

What you need to bring:

• Headlamp
• Warm layers
• Snack
• Climbing harness (if you own)
• Locking carabiners and non-locking carabiners (if you own)
• Cordalette, slings (if you own)
• Rope to practice with (if you own)
• ATC, pulleys, progress capture devices (if you own)
• If you are interested in coming on the weekend glacier skills course, then please bring your boots (the requirements for this course will be slightly stricter than for snowcraft)