Mont Blanc Mountaineering School
New Skills And Three Days For Summit Climb
From the comforts of huts in the Chamonix valley participants will learn the fundamentals of mountaineering needed not only to ascend the Alps highest peak, 15,771-foot / 4807-meter Mont Blanc, but also to scale other glaciated peaks around the world. This course achieves the objectives of our six-day Glacier Mountaineering Course and includes an ascent of one of the most sought after mountains in all of Europe.
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Course Perks
An Alps trip is a true “climber’s holiday.” Your nights will be spent in the comfort of huts, which provide hot meals and a warm, dry place to sleep. While in town, you are free to stay in the hotel of your choice — if you are on a budget you can stay in hostels, or if you want to pamper yourself, go for the stellar five-star accommodations.
Trip Highlights:
- Comfortable accommodations- huts or hotels the entire time
- Outstanding acclimatization climbs
- Low client to guide ratio with UIAGM certified guides
- Aesthetic routes on Mont Blanc in one of the world’s greatest and most accessible ranges
- European culture and excellent food
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Description
Participants will learn from their American guides proper ice axe and crampon use, practice crevasse rescue, travel on a rope team, and much more. You will also review rock climbing skills such as rappelling, belaying, and movement on rock. Included in the course will be an acclimatization ascent of one of the nearby peaks. This will also solidify your skills for Blanc.
Price
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Mont Blanc Mountaineering School
from $2,500 – 7 Days / In country
- 2:1 - $3,150 per person
- 3:1 - $2,900 per person
- 4:1 - $2,500 per person
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Price Includes
- UIAGM Guide
- Group gear
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare
- Hotel and hut accommodations
- Gondola fees
- Meals
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra meals, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Guide/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
School and Climbs are Arranged on a Custom Basis — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
Unlike most Mountain Madness international trip itineraries, which include travel time to and from your destination, our Alps schedules begin on the first day of service in country. While your trip cost does not include lodging fees, Mountain Madness makes your arrangements at huts, which you will pay for upon arrival to the huts and gives you the necessary information to plan your nights. You will need to stay at a hotel or hostel of your choice in Chamonix prior to Day 1 and need to make these arrangements through your travel agent or on your own.
Mont Blanc Mountaineering School Day by Day
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Day 1
Ice school
Your Mountain Madness guide will meet you at your hotel in Chamonix for a full equipment check. We’ll ride the scenic Montenvers cog train to the Mer de Glacé, then follow a short trail and a series of ladders down a small cliff face to reach the massive “sea of ice.” Once on the Mer de Glacé, we’ll cover crampon technique and the basics of self-arrest, then practice our newly developed skills by touring the famous dry glacier. For those who are interested, there will even be the opportunity to try climbing some short vertical ice walls with two axes. This evening, we’ll return to our hotel to rest up for day two.
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Day 2
Rock School Hut Approach
Elevation: 8,878 ft / 2706 m
The morning session will be an introduction to the skills needed to climb rock at the Les Gaillands cliff in Chamonix. You’ll learn knots, belaying, rope handling skills, and other rock climbing technique. After lunch, we’ll make our way from Chamonix to the small village of Le Tour, where we’ll catch the lifts to Col de Balme. From there, it’s a scenic 2.5 hour approach to the Albert Première Hut, where we’ll spend the night.
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Day 3
Summit Petit Fourche, Crevasse Rescue, Ice Axe Arrest
Elevation: 10,400 ft / 3170 m
From the hut, we’ll head up the Glacier du Tour, then climb and summit the Petit Fourche, which finishes with a short rock scramble. On the descent, a steep rappel on snow will take us over a bergshrund and into Switzerland! While crossing the Trient Glacier we’ll learn crevasse rescue techniques before reaching the Trient Hut, where we’ll grab a snack and perfect our self-arrest technique before bedding down for the night.
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Day 4
Summit Aiguille du Tour
Elevation: 11,614 ft / 3540 m
We’ll have an alpine start for our ascent of Aiguille du Tour on the French/Swiss border, which will let us practice skills like crossing a bergshrund, rock scrambling, and snow climbing. We will descend back to Chamonix on Day 5 via the Col de Balme and Le Tour and spend the afternoon and evening in the hotel to rest and prepare for our ascent of Mont Blanc.
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Days 5-7
Summit Mont Blanc
Elevation: 15,771 ft / 4807 m
There are a number of different strategies for climbing Mont Blanc, and you and your guide will choose the best based on conditions and the ability of your group. (Options include the Gouter Route and the Tres Mont Blanc Route, depending on a variety of factors.) The night of Day 6 will be spent in hut, and by the evening of Day 7 we’ll be enjoying a final dinner at our hotel in Chamonix.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Mont Blanc Mountaineering School
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Carrying Gear
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Summit pack (40L)
Lightweight as possible with a volume approximately 2,500 cubic inches (40 liters)
Examples:
Osprey Mutant 38
Black Diamond Speed 40
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Sleeping bag liner
Blankets and pads provide by the huts
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Climbing Gear
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Alpine climbing harness
Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing
Examples:
Black Diamond Couloir, Petzl Altitude, Petzl Hirundos
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Locking carabiners (2)
Two large, pear-shaped carabiners are best
Examples:
Black Diamond Rock Lock, Petzl William, Petzl Attache
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Non-locking carabiners (2)
2 non-locking carabiners. wired straight-gates are recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond HotWire
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Belay device (plaquette)
Tube style
Examples:
Black Diamond ATC Guide, Petzl Reverso
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Mountaineering ice axe
under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm
Examples:
Black Diamond Raven, Petzl Glacier
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Crampons w/ anti-balling plate
Steel 12-pont. Must be fit to climbing boots prior to trip, new-matic/hybrid type
Examples:
Black Diamond Sabretooth, Petzl Vasak
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Climbing helmet
Lightweight
Examples:
Black Diamond Half Dome, Petzl Elios
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8’ of perlon accessory cord
You should bring 8 feet of 6mm cord for prusik loops
Examples:
Sterling
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18' of perlon accessory cord
You should bring 18 feet of 6mm cord for cordalette
Examples:
Sterling
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond Trail Back Pole
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Glacier glasses
100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case
Examples:
Julbo
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Hands
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Liner gloves
Two pairs thin fleece or synthetic
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Softshell gloves
One pair medium-weight for daily wear when it’s not too cold
Examples:
Black Diamond Arc, Arcteryx Zenta LT Glove
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Climbing gloves
A shell system of a fleece liner and waterproof shell that handles cold
Examples:
Outdoor Research Arete
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Gaiters
One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your climbing boots
Examples:
Outdoor Research Verglas or Crocodiles
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Technical mountaineering boots
Heavyweight and crampon compatible. Plastic boots are an option
Examples:
La Sportiva Nepal Evo GTX
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Rock shoes (optional Cham)
Good to keep your options open as the Chamonix valley is surrounded by world class rock routes
Examples:
La Sportiva Mythos
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is recommended and ideal
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Sun hoody (optional)
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire climb
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for equatorial sun protection
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water bottles with insulators
Two one-liter wide-mouthed plastic bottles
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Small stainless-steel thermos (optional)
For hot beverages on summit day
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the climb. this will only be necessary as a back-up.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN tablets make treated water taste better
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Large plastic bowl
Bring a 2-4 cup camping bowl or a plastic "Rubbermaid" style container for your mountain dining
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Lexan spoon or spork
Lightweight and strong
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Insulated cup (12-16oz)
A 12-16 oz (350-500 ml) mug with an attached lid will help keep you hydrated
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Personal first aid and drug kit
See Health and Medical Information
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Snacks (general)
Bring your favorite snacks and power/energy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking and climbing
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Course
Mont Blanc Mountaineering School
from $2,500
7 Days / In country
- 2:1 - $3,150 per person
- 3:1 - $2,900 per person
- 4:1 - $2,500 per person
Elevation
Petit Fourche — 10,400 ft / 3170 m
Aiguille Du Tour — 11,614 ft / 3540 m
Mont Blanc — 15,771 ft / 4807 m
Difficulty
Advanced Beginner
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