Ski mountaineering training course Bernese Alps

• Procedure and meeting place

  Training and summit experience in the heart of the Bernese Alps
  The Finsteraarhorn, the highest peak in the Bernese Alps, towers above a magnificent glacier world. Our four-day ski mountaineering course combines intensive learning with impressive tours. From the wide ice streams of the Aletsch Glacier to steep firn flanks on the Finsteraarhorn, we gain valuable experience in high alpine terrain.

  • Meeting place

    approx. 10 a.m. Jungfraujoch

    We meet in the morning at the Jungfraujoch. Book your ascent with the Jungfraujochbahn cable car well in advance so that you are sure to be at the Joch at the agreed time.

  • Day 1 - Approach Konkordiahütte

    After a short welcome and equipment check, we descend via the Aletsch Glacier and ascend through the impressive glacier world to the Konkordiahütte. On the way, you will be introduced to the basics of ski mountaineering.

  • Day 2 - From the Konkordia hut to the Finsteraarhorn hut

    Today we cross the Grossen Aletschfirn to the Grünhornlücke. On the way we practise rope handling and roping up on skis. After a beautiful descent over the Fiescher glacier, we ascend to the Finsteraarhorn hut. Depending on conditions and time, there may be room for a short additional tour.

  • Day 3 - Training day with ski tour

    The two days are all about training. We practise how to use ice axes and crampons, how to build ice belays and how to rescue crevasses. We combine this learning content with rewarding ski tours, e.g. on the Wyssnollen or the Gross Wannenhorn. Both offer panoramic summits and wonderful descents.

  • Day 4 - Galmihorn summit tour

    Today, too, we dedicate the day to training and climb the Galmihorn together, from where we descend into the valley to Reckingen.

  • Course contents

    During these four days you will learn:

    • Material science and correct use of technical equipment
    • Use and handling of crampons and ice axe
    • Various techniques for transporting the skis on the rucksack
    • Rope types and walking on the glacier rope
    • Safe behaviour on glaciers and in alpine terrain
    • Choice of terrain in ascent and descent
    • Self Ascent Basics
    • Anchoring in firn
    • Crevasse rescue basics
    • Tour planning in the evening

    After this course you will be well prepared to plan and organise easy and medium ski tours independently.

  • Conclusion

    We end the day together in Reckingen and travel back individually by train.

• Requirements

  • Ski touring experience (ascent with skins, safe descent in the terrain)
  • First guided ski mountaineering experience, ideal after ski mountaineering introduction and preparation course
  • Stamina for daily ascents of 800-1200 metres and 4-6 hours walking time
  • Interest in training and active participation

• Price and services

  • CHF 1190.-
  • Small group with 4 - 6 guests per mountain guide.
  • Including planning and realisation with mountain guide and his travel expenses
  • Including accommodation costs with half board
  • Excluding travelling expenses, any train tickets, personal consumption

• Material and equipment

  • We have for you a detailed packing list with packing tips compiled.
  • For this tour you need the following material from this PDF. We carry our equipment with us all the time. Pack only what is necessary.

Impressions: Ski touring course