COURTENAY WINTER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Crevasse Rescue in Coastal Mountains: A Hands‑On Glacier Safety Course Out of Courtenay
A one‑ or two‑day Crevasse Rescue Course run by VIBE that teaches essential glacier travel and rescue techniques, useful for anyone preparing mountaineering or backcountry glacier trips.
Crevasse Rescue in Coastal Mountains: A Hands‑On Glacier Safety Course Out of Courtenay.
Set against Vancouver Island’s rugged backdrop, the Glacier Travel and Crevasse Rescue Course teaches the ropework, hauling systems and avalanche‑aware practices needed to travel safely on glaciated terrain. Offered as an intensive one‑day fundamentals session or an immersive two‑day program that moves into the Strathcona backcountry, the course emphasizes hands‑on practice in realistic rescue scenarios.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Practical Crevasse Rescue and Hauling Systems
The curriculum focuses on foundational crevasse rescue techniques—rope ascension, hauling systems and, on the advanced day, snow anchors—so participants leave with practical, repeatable skills for real rescue scenarios.
From Local Cliff Work to Strathcona Backcountry
Training begins at a local cliff in Nanaimo for rope‑work fundamentals on day one, with an optional second day expanding skills onto snow and into the Strathcona backcountry for applied, real‑world practice.
Instruction from an ACMG‑Certified Instructor
Sessions are led by an ACMG‑certified instructor and are structured to give mountaineers and backcountry travelers direct supervision while building confidence in glacier navigation and emergencies.
What the day feels like
What the Course Feels Like
Expect a focused, hands‑on day of rope practice, hauling drills and scenario work that walks participants through the steps of safe glacier travel and crevasse extraction; the two‑day option layers advanced techniques and snow‑anchor practice into an alpine backcountry setting to rehearse skills under more realistic conditions.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Offered as a one‑day fundamentals course or a two‑day program with an advanced second day in Strathcona backcountry.
Required items include an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe (these can be provided on request). Backcountry gear such as touring skis or a splitboard with boots, skins and poles; warm layers and waterproof outerwear; daypack, water and lunch; sunglasses or goggles and sunscreen.
The course includes an ACMG‑certified instructor; avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe are available upon request but are listed as required gear if participants bring their own.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the course?
You can take a one‑day Crevasse Rescue Course or opt for the two‑day option that adds advanced snow and backcountry practice.
Where are the training locations?
Day one is held at a local cliff in Nanaimo for rope and hauling practice; the optional second day takes place on snow in the Strathcona backcountry.
What does the course cost?
The Day 1 introductory session is listed at $220; Day 2 (the advanced add‑on) is an additional $100.
Is equipment provided?
An ACMG‑certified instructor is included. Avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe are available upon request, but participants should plan to bring required avalanche gear or confirm rental ahead of time.
What experience level is required?
The course is classified as intermediate—intended for mountaineers, backcountry skiers and alpine climbers who already have basic backcountry experience.
Can I take just the first day?
Yes—the one‑day session covers fundamentals and is offered independently from the optional second‑day advanced module.