SummitPost.org

Hi everyone,

I'm 24 years old, in Corvallis, Oregon, and my goals for this season -- my return to climbing after a dozen years -- are to focus on alpine education and training. I'd like to do everything from mountaineering basics, to crevasse rescue and other intermediate options -- maybe some advanced courses if my recent-graduate-with-a-temporary-job wallet can handle the prices, but I'm in no hurry.

I've been on a moderate to intense trail running regime for over a year, and I seek elevation whenever possible, so my fitness level is high. I'm just ready to learn and climb, now.

Does anyone know about Oregon's alpine education offerings, and if so, post that knowledge?

Really, anything and everything is welcomed. I just want to make sure I'm discovering the best opportunities.

Thanks!

Anthony

http://www.timberlinemtguides.com/ is what you want.

The classes there look good. Though, how useful are one-day classes?

The Mazamas is a club similar to The Mountaineers that offers courses and club outings.

ExcitableBoy wrote:The Mazamas is a club similar to The Mountaineers that offers courses and club outings.

Thank you, EB. I really wish I had discovered it sooner; looks like I'll have to wait until next season for the Basics course. I've jumped in at an odd time.

I took my 1st mountaineering class with Portland Parks and REc.

http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/ind ... 1&a=355749

The prices are far more reasonable. I think for $75 plus your own equipment rental fees, a guide will give you a two-day course and lead you to summit of Mt. Hood.

billisfree wrote:I took my 1st mountaineering class with Portland Parks and REc.

http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/ind ... 1&a=355749

The prices are far more reasonable. I think for $75 plus your own equipment rental fees, a guide will give you a two-day course and lead you to summit of Mt. Hood.

I sent them an inquiry about their 2012 options. They haven't posted anything, but I love what they offered last year. Very helpful option, sir. Thank you.

You're right, Portland Parks and Rec haven't posted anything on mountain climbing - yet. Maybe this coming spring issue will list them.

You can always get your equipment and go out to Mt. Hood on a sunny day. There's usually plenty of people around you. Join up with someone or simply follow everyone. If anything happens... there's plenty of people can help you if you stay with the crowd.


This is most dangerous section - the last 600 ft to top. Sometimes there's a safe boot path. In this picture, falling, skittering ice chips have obliterated the boot path.


Be a good judge of snow condtions. Do not climb last 600 ft if slopes are icy or a fresh layer of deep powder snow has fallen recently.


Summit ridge - most people do not bother to rope up... like these people.