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Oak Course
Location
Courmayeur
Estimated Duration
2 Days
Group size
5-5 participants
Level
Beginner
Cost
€200 per person
This introductory course is designed to provide the fundamental skills required for safe glacier travel and basic alpine ascents. Through practical training in a high-mountain environment, participants will learn how to move efficiently on glaciated terrain, use essential mountaineering equipment, and manage common alpine hazards. Day 1 – Glacier Travel Fundamentals - Introduction and Safety Course briefing and objectives Overview of the Mont Blanc glacier environment Safety principles in alpine terrain - Equipment and Materials Personal mountaineering equipment Harness, rope, helmet, and carabiners Ice axe and crampons Glacier safety equipment and backpack organization - Rope Teams and Glacier Progression Rope tying and rope management Glacier rope teams and spacing Communication and movement in the rope team - Crampon and Ice Axe Techniques Basic crampon techniques (flat-footing and front-pointing) Efficient movement on snow and moderate ice Correct use of the ice axe Crevasse Awareness and Rescue – Introduction Glacier hazards and crevasse recognition Fall arrest and initial response Introduction to basic crevasse rescue systems Day 2 – Practical Glacier Skills - Crevasse Rescue Rope team fall arrest Snow anchors Hauling systems (Z-pulley and simple rescue techniques) - Glacier Progression Efficient rope team travel Movement through crevasse fields Team communication and pace management - Practical Alpine Exercise Application of the techniques learned: Route planning Glacier travel in rope teams Hazard evaluation and decision making - Skills Acquired Participants will gain the basic knowledge required for: Safe glacier travel in rope teams Use of crampons and ice axe Basic crevasse rescue techniques Alpine route planning and navigation Awareness of mountain hazards and emergency management.
• harness
• crampons
• ice axe
• helmet
• crampons boots
Location: Mont Blanc Massif Accommodation: Rifugio Torino Duration: 2 Days
• 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.

Francesco Perrone
IFMGA Guide
Hi everyone, I'm Francesco! I'm an IFMGA/UIAGM Mountain Guide from Italy, based in the beautiful Aosta Valley, right at the foot of Mont Blanc. I've been guiding since 2020, and these days I'm deeply focused on training programs that help people push their limits and build solid mountain knowledge. I believe that a skilled mountaineer should be ready to face any situation. As for me, I keep exploring, climbing, skiing, biking — and often mixing them — to stay sharp and prepared for the next adventure! Instagram: @fra.perrons