CONWAY GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Intro to Mountaineering — One Day Winter Skills in Conway (Ages 16+)
A one-day, beginner-focused course in Conway that teaches ice-axe and crampon technique, step-kicking, layering and basic hazard awareness to prepare participants for larger winter objectives.
Intro to Mountaineering — One Day Winter Skills in Conway (Ages 16+).
Learn to navigate snowy slopes confidently under the guidance of experienced instructors from the International Mountain Climbing School. This one-day, supportive introduction covers ice-axe basics, crampon footwork and efficient snow movement so beginners can build the skills and confidence to pursue bigger winter objectives.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Begin on Conway’s snowy approaches
Start in a friendly, beginner-focused setting in Conway where instructors stage an all-day course designed to introduce movement and safety on snow. The environment is structured for learning the fundamentals of winter travel under guided supervision.
Hands-on ice-axe and crampon practice
The course emphasizes practical drills: ice-axe balance and carry, crampon footwork on gentle–moderate slopes, step-kicking and efficient movement, plus layering and pacing to stay warm and comfortable.
A stepping stone to bigger winter objectives
Designed as a first step, the program builds the competence and confidence needed to progress toward larger winter goals — the instructors frame the day as foundational training for more ambitious peaks.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Expect a focused, practical day: instructors move through demonstrations and guided practice that translate into repeatable habits—ice-axe placement, secure crampon steps and efficient movement across snow—framed by instruction on layering, pacing and basic terrain choice.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a one-day course. Plan to arrive at the meeting location by 8:00 AM for gear check and outfitting; instruction runs approximately 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Dress in layered clothing appropriate for winter movement; be prepared to practice step-kicking and crampon footwork. Expect instructor-led outfitting at the meeting point during gear check.
Program is run by the International Mountain Climbing School with an on-site gear check and outfitting at the meeting address in North Conway.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Intro to Mountaineering course?
This is a one-day course; the scheduled program runs from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 16 years old.
Where and when do we meet?
Meet at 2733 White Mountain Hwy, North Conway, NH and arrive by 8:00 AM for gear check and outfitting.
What skills will I learn on the course?
Instruction covers ice-axe basics (balance, support and safe carry), crampon footwork on gentle–moderate slopes, step-kicking and efficient movement on snow, plus layering and basic hazard awareness.
Will there be a gear check or outfitting?
Yes — the schedule includes a gear check and outfitting at the meeting point before instruction begins.
Is this course beginner-friendly?
Yes — the program is designed as an introductory, supportive environment to build skills and confidence for larger winter objectives.