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Oak Course
Location
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Date
Thu, 5 Nov 2026
Estimated Duration
1 Day
Group size
4-6 participants
Level
A two-day glacier skills course covering the ropework and crevasse rescue skills needed for safer glacier travel. Day 1 is spent learning and practising key systems in a controlled environment in the valley. Day 2 applies them on a real snowy glacier with actual crevasses. Crevasse rescue is a complex subject that needs ongoing practice, judgement and experience. This course gives you a practical foundation of essential skills and awareness. By combining structured learning in the valley with real-world application on the glacier, you'll develop your understanding of rescue systems, safer glacier travel and the decisions required in a dynamic mountain environment. You should already feel comfortable hiking in mountain terrain and using crampons. Previous glacier experience is a bonus but not essential.
• Stiff mountaineering boots suitable for crampon use
• Crampons
• 1 ice axe
• Harness
• Mountaineering helmet
• ATC or similar belay device
• Petzl Micro Traxion or equivalent progress-capture pulley
• 2 × 120 cm slings
• 1 ice screw
• 5 locking carabiners
• 2 x prussiks
Day 1 (5 November): Ropework and Crevasse Rescue Fundamentals Based at a crag in the valley, using a simple, controlled environment to learn and practise the key systems before applying them on the glacier. * Self-rescue, companion rescue and group haul systems * Essential ropework * When and how to rope up for glacier travel * Crevasse awareness and hazard assessment * Seasonal and daily factors influencing glacier conditions and decision-making Day 2 (6 November): Applying Skills on a Real Glacier Taking the skills onto a real snowy glacier with actual crevasses, and adapting techniques to real-world conditions. * Safe glacier travel, rope management and decision-making * Crevasse awareness and ongoing hazard assessment * Snow anchors * Managing the complications of real-world crevasse safety and rescue * Understanding the limitations of techniques and the importance of sound judgement
Beginner
Cost
€300 per person
• 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.
Mike Thomas
IFMGA Guide
Hi am Mike, I particularly enjoy ski touring in the mountains to discover more remote and less travelled areas of the Alps. A keen climber since my early teens, I have always found the mountains a place to thrive and find adventure! I am a British IFMGA Mountain Guide, also a WMCI in the UK instructional system and I have Degree in Outdoor Education. I have worked, climbed and skied all over the world in the last 20 years. My work is a combination of both guiding and teaching. My real passion is helping people achieve their goals in the mountains. Teaching is also a big part of my guiding, helping people develop their mountain skills and thus in some way helping them access this amazing world of mountains and adventure.