3 days Alpine Training & Summit Pigne d’Arolla (3,796 m)

Pigne d’Arolla (3,796 m) Alpine Training & Summit Program 📍 Arolla 🏔 Cabane des Vignettes ⛰ Pigne d’Arolla Duration: 3 Days Level: Introductory / Intermediate Glacier Mountaineering Ratio: 2 Guides / max. 8 participants A complete alpine training experience designed to teach and apply real glacier mountaineering skills, culminating with the ascent of one of the most aesthetic 3,000m+ peaks in the Valais Alps. ⸻ Day 1 – Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue Training 📍 Arolla area Elevation gain/loss: approx. +300 m / -300 m Duration: 6–7 hours A full practical training day focused on safety, efficiency, and autonomy in glacier terrain. Course Content • Glacier rope team setup • Glacier travel techniques • Terrain assessment & risk management • Essential alpine knots • Crevasse fall factor understanding • Z-pulley systems (simple & variations) • Self-rescue from a crevasse • Companion rescue from a crevasse Training will take place on rock training areas depending on conditions. ⸻ Day 2 – Ascent to Cabane des Vignettes (3,160 m) 📍 From Arolla Elevation gain: +1,200 m Duration: 5–7 hours A progressive ascent toward one of the most spectacular huts in the Valais Alps. Technical Focus During the Ascent • Real application of rope team techniques • Efficient crampon techniques • Snow and ice anchor building • Glacier navigation and route finding • Pace management in alpine terrain • Passing bergschrunds safely • Planning and preparation for summit day Arrival at the hut in the afternoon. Evening briefing, technical review, and summit preparation. Overnight at Cabane des Vignettes. ⸻ Day 3 – Summit of Pigne d’Arolla (3,796 m) & Descent to Arolla Elevation gain: +650 m Elevation loss: -1,850 m Duration: 7–9 hours Early alpine start. Objectives • Apply all learned skills in real conditions • Efficient glacier progression • Safe descent management • Decision-making in high alpine terrain Summit of Pigne d’Arolla followed by a long glacier descent back to Arolla. Program ends mid to late afternoon. Required Personal Equipment * Climbing harness * Mountaineering helmet * Classic mountaineering ice axe * Crampons * Optional: 2 ice screws (if available) * Alpine Boots * 30L backpack Mandatory Crevasse Rescue Kit • 1 locking pulley (e.g. Micro Traxion or similar progress-capture device) • 1 T-Block • 2 prusik/machard loops • 5 locking carabiners • 5 m cord (4 mm) • 2 Dynema loop 120cm Clothing & Safety • Layered technical clothing • Waterproof shell jacket • Gloves (light + warm pair) • Category 4 sunglasses • Sunscreen • Headlamp • Water bottle (minimum 1L) • Cash (hut) • Some food Personal Toiletries & Overnight Items • Lightweight sleeping sheet (hut requirement) • Small toiletry kit (toothbrush, toothpaste, essentials) • Personal medication (if needed) • Earplugs (recommended for hut stay) • Lightweight towel • Cash or card for hut expenses • Phone + power bank

• crampons boots

• ice axe

• crevasse rescue kit

• helmet

• belay device

• ice tools

• crampons

• Guides on Oak are verified by Oak, but users should independently confirm a guide’s qualifications.

• Participants are responsible for ensuring their skill level and fitness are suitable for the activity.

• Individuals should only attempt techniques or terrain they feel personally confident with.

• All instructions and safety guidance from the guide should be followed at all times.

• Users must ensure their own equipment is appropriate and in safe working condition.

• Mountain activities carry inherent risks, and participation is at the user’s own discretion.

• Adequate insurance covering mountain travel and rescue is essential.

• Relevant medical information should be shared with the guide.

• Plans may change due to weather or safety considerations, and users should be prepared for this.