YAMNUSKA: Guided Mountaineering, Rock and Ice Cimbing, Hiking and Skiing In The Canadian Rockies
mountain adventures

MOUNTAINEERING IN THE CANADIAN ROCKIES


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3-MONTH MOUNTAINEERING SKILLS & OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP SEMESTERS

MOUNTAINEERING

BEGINNER PROGRAMS

SNOW AND ICE LONG WEEKEND

INTRO TO MOUNTAINEERING

WAPTA ICE HIKE

MOUNT ATHABASCA ASCENTS

BUGABOO ASCENTS

KANANASKIS ALPINE TRAVERSE

SCRAMBLING SKILLS 

PRIVATE GUIDING &
INSTRUCTION

INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED PROGRAMS

YOHO PEAKS

BUGABOOS GRANITE

INTRO TO ALPINE ICE

MOUNT ATHABASCA ASCENTS

MOUNT ASSINIBOINE ASCENTS

LAKE LOUISE CLASSICS

BUGABOO ASCENTS

PRIVATE GUIDING &
INSTRUCTION

MOUNT ROBSON

PRIVATE GUIDING &
INSTRUCTION

ROCK CLIMBING

ICE CLIMBING

AVALANCHE COURSES

SKI MOUNTAINEERING
BACKCOUNTRY SKIING
HUT TOURS

HIKING IN THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

WILDERNESS FIRST AID

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Mountaineering, Climbing, and Skiing In The Canadian Rockies

Private Mountaineering Programs

Clothing & Gear Lists

On private programs we will supply group climbing gear such as ropes and hardwear. You are responsible for providing your own clothing and personal gear (backpacks, sleeping bags, harness, ice axe, crampons etc). We do have many of these items for rent.

The following lists will give you a good idea of what to bring. We will confirm which list applies for your booking and identify to you any items on the list that are not required.

   

Equipment Sales

As an authorized Petzl Charlet dealer we have a range of guide-recommended mountaineering gear available for purchase. A 5% discount applies if you are booked on a Yamnuska program with greater discounts built into our gear packages. We can ship to you or have your gear awaiting your arrival here. More Information

CLOTHING & GEAR LISTS

Rock Peaks (no or little snow) 

For example: Castle Mtn., Mts. Edith, Louis & Rundle

CLOTHING LIST

We suggest layers of light, easily carried clothing that allow for fast and easy adjustment to best suit fast changing temperature conditions.  We discourage cotton clothing as it causes rapid heat loss when wet.  Feel free to call us if you have any questions about what to bring. This list covers items needed for all likely conditions during the mountaineering season. Some items may be unnecessary during periods of settled, hot weather. Your guide will go through your clothing and gear with you prior to the climb.

You will need to bring:

  • LONG UNDERWEAR, top and bottom,  polypro, wool, capilene or fleece.

  • WOOL/BLEND SOCKS.

  • Warm LONG PANTS to climb in. These should be wool/nylon blend knickers, fleece pants, nylon exercise pants with light long johns or wool trousers.

  • Light SHIRT or T-SHIRT.

  • Wool or fleece LONG SLEEVE SHIRT with collar.

  • FLEECE JACKET (heavyweight).

  • Water proof OUTER JACKET with hood (Gore-Tex).

  • Waterproof OUTER PANTS, preferably with sidezips on legs.

  • Waterproof knee-length GAITERS that will fit over large boots (only if snow anticipated).

  • Waterproof mountaineering GLOVES or Wool / fleece mitts /gloves.

  • WARM HAT (that covers ears).

  • SUNHAT with wide brim.

EQUIPMENT LIST

You will need to bring: (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS: Ideally these should be comfortable leather boots with a semi-rigid sole. It is possible to buy boots such as the La Sportiva "Makalu" which ideal for semi-technical and easy mountaineering. As always the most important feature of a mountaineering boot is comfort. Different brands seem to suit different feet. If buying try a few different pairs and if they are not comfortable don't buy them. There are many good brands. They include Asolo, Kayland, Koflach, la Sportiva and Scarpa. On Mt. Louis you can use a sturdy approach shoe plus rock shoes for the technical portions of the climb.

  • ROCK SHOES. Recommended for routes on Castle Mountain and Mt. Louis and any other climb involving prolonged 5th class climbing on rock. Again comfortably fitting rock shoes will enhance your experience.

  • DAYPACK. Large enough to carry spare clothing, lunch, water and climbing gear.

  • HARNESS. Sit harness preferred.

  • HELMET.

  • SUNGLASSES with good UV protection, we suggest 'glacier glasses'.

  • Extra Strength SUN CREAM

  • SMALL FLASHLIGHT OR HEADLAMP with fresh batteries.

  • WATERBOTTLE (1L minimum).

  • POCKET KNIFE.

  • BLISTER KIT ('moleskin', 'Second Skin')

  • FIRST-AID Items (band-aids, ibuprofen & aspirin / Tylenol is enough as guides have a kit also).

  • CAMERA and spare film.

  • TREKKING POLE (S) (optional).

OPTIONAL ITEMS

We supply the following items, but if you have your own, please feel free to bring along - Your rack, gear sling, nut pick, belay device, prussick slings, locking biners, your guide will go through this with you to decide exactly which items you should carry on the climb.

RENTAL INFO

Contact Yamnuska with gear questions

return to top

Peaks with Snow & Ice  

For example: Mts. Aberdeen, Niblock, Temple & Whyte

CLOTHING LIST

We suggest layers of light, easily carried clothing that allow for fast and easy adjustment to best suit fast changing temperature conditions.  We discourage cotton clothing as it causes rapid heat loss when wet.  Feel free to call us if you have any questions about what to bring. This list covers items needed for all likely conditions during the mountaineering season. Some items may be unnecessary during periods of settled, hot weather. Your guide will go through your clothing and gear with you prior to the climb.

You will need to bring:

  • LONG UNDERWEAR, top and bottom,  polypro, wool, capilene or fleece.

  • WOOL/BLEND SOCKS.

  • Warm LONG PANTS to climb in. These should be wool/nylon blend knickers, fleece pants, nylon exercise pants with light long johns or wool trousers.

  • Light SHIRT or T-SHIRT.

  • Wool or fleece LONG SLEEVE SHIRT with collar.

  • FLEECE JACKET (heavyweight).

  • Spare fleece or insulated JACKET.

  • Water proof OUTER JACKET with hood (Gore-Tex).

  • Waterproof OUTER PANTS, preferably with sidezips on legs.

  • Waterproof knee-length GAITERS that will fit over large boots (may not be needed late season on Niblock, Temple & Whyte).

  • Waterproof mountaineering GLOVES or wool / fleece mitts /gloves plus waterproof overmitts.

  • WARM HAT (that covers ears).

  • SUNHAT with wide brim.

EQUIPMENT LIST

You will need to bring: (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS: Aberdeen demands proper mountaineering boots designed specifically for this use. Most hiking boots are not suitable not being firm enough, waterproof and not made to take crampons. Mountaineering boots are made from leather or plastic. Leather boots have either a semi-rigid or a rigid sole. Plastic boots have rigid soles. The most important feature of a mountaineering boot is comfort. Different brands seem to suit different feet. If buying try a few different pairs and if they are not comfortable don't buy them. There are many good brands. They include Asolo, Kayland, Koflach, la Sportiva and Scarpa. Niblock, Temple and Whyte are not always not as snowy or icy and when this is the case the need for specialized boots is less, on these climbs whilst a  proper mountaineering boot is preferable you can get away with a waterproof, heavy hiking boot that will give you plenty of ankle support.

  • DAYPACK. Large enough to carry spare clothing, lunch, water and climbing gear.

  • ICE AXE. Regular glacier axe minimum 55cm length .(may not be needed late season on Niblock, Temple & Whyte)

  • CRAMPONS. Must fit your boots (may not be needed late season on Niblock, Temple & Whyte).

  • HARNESS. Sit harness preferred.

  • HELMET.

  • SUNGLASSES with good UV protection, we suggest 'glacier glasses'.

  • Extra Strength SUN CREAM

  • SMALL FLASHLIGHT OR HEADLAMP with fresh batteries.

  • WATERBOTTLE (1L minimum).

  • POCKET KNIFE.

  • BLISTER KIT ('moleskin', 'Second Skin')

  • FIRST-AID Items (band-aids, ibuprofen & aspirin / Tylenol is enough as guides have a kit also).

  • CAMERA and spare film.

  • TREKKING POLE (S) (optional).

OPTIONAL ITEMS

We supply the following items, but if you have your own, please feel free to bring along - Your rack, gear sling, nut pick, belay device, prussick slings, locking biners, your guide will go through this with you to decide exactly which items you should carry on the climb.

RENTAL INFO

Contact Yamnuska with gear questions

return to top

Columbia Icefields Mountaineering Instruction & Climbing  

Snow and ice instruction, ascents of Athabasca and other peaks in area.

CAMPING GEAR (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • SLEEPING BAG (3 season)

  • SLEEPING MAT

  • PILLOW (optional)

  • DUFFEL BAG for camp storage

Only needed if climbing from the campground. If staying at a nearby Hostel you will still need your sleeping bag.

CLOTHING LIST

We suggest layers of light, easily carried clothing that allow for fast and easy adjustment to best suit fast changing temperature conditions.  We discourage cotton clothing as it causes rapid heat loss when wet.  Feel free to call us if you have any questions about what to bring. This list covers items needed for all likely conditions during the mountaineering season. Your guide will go through your clothing and gear with you prior to the climb.

You will need to bring:

  • LONG UNDERWEAR, top and bottom,  polypro, wool, capilene or fleece.

  • WOOL/BLEND SOCKS (extra pairs).

  • Warm LONG PANTS to climb in. These should be wool/nylon blend knickers, fleece pants, nylon exercise pants with light long johns or wool trousers.

  • Light SHIRT or T-SHIRT.

  • Wool or fleece LONG SLEEVE SHIRT with collar.

  • FLEECE SWEATER (medium weight).

  • Heavyweight fleece or insulated JACKET.

  • Water proof OUTER JACKET with hood (Gore-Tex).

  • Waterproof OUTER PANTS, preferably with sidezips on legs.

  • Waterproof knee-length GAITERS that will fit over large boots .

  • Waterproof mountaineering GLOVES or wool / fleece mitts /gloves plus waterproof overmitts.

  • WARM HAT (that covers ears).

  • SUNHAT with wide brim.

  • NECK TUBE.

EQUIPMENT LIST

You will need to bring: (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS: You will need proper mountaineering boots designed specifically for this use. Most hiking boots are not suitable not being firm enough, waterproof and not made to take crampons. Mountaineering boots are made from leather or plastic. Leather boots have either a semi-rigid or a rigid sole. Plastic boots have rigid soles. The most important feature of a mountaineering boot is comfort. Different brands seem to suit different feet. If buying try a few different pairs and if they are not comfortable don't buy them. There are many good brands. They include Asolo, Kayland, Koflach, la Sportiva and Scarpa.

  • DAYPACK. Large enough to carry spare clothing, lunch, water and climbing gear.

  • ICE AXE. For beginner instruction and ascents a regular glacier axe minimum 55cm length. For intermediate and advanced instruction and ascents an ice axe with curved pick (best is 55cm).

  • Technical ICE CLIMBING TOOL for intermediate and advanced instruction and ascents.

  • CRAMPONS. Must fit your boots.

  • HARNESS. Sit harness preferred.

  • HELMET.

  • SUNGLASSES with good UV protection, we suggest 'glacier glasses'.

  • Extra Strength SUN CREAM.

  • Lip Cream.

  • HEADLAMP with fresh batteries.

  • WATERBOTTLE (1L minimum).

  • POCKET KNIFE.

  • BLISTER KIT ('moleskin', 'Second Skin')

  • FIRST-AID Items (band-aids, ibuprofen & aspirin / Tylenol is enough as guides have a kit also).

  • CAMERA and spare film.

  • TREKKING POLE (S) (optional).

OPTIONAL ITEMS

We supply the following items, but if you have your own, please feel free to bring along - Your rack, gear sling, nut pick, belay device, prussick slings, locking biners, your guide will go through this with you to decide exactly which items you should carry on the climb.

RENTAL INFO

Contact Yamnuska with gear questions

return to top

Hut-based Mountaineering Instruction & Ascents  

For example: Wapta Icefields, Mounts Fay, Lefroy, Victoria

CLOTHING LIST

We suggest layers of light, easily carried clothing that allow for fast and easy adjustment to best suit fast changing temperature conditions.  We discourage cotton clothing as it causes rapid heat loss when wet.  Feel free to call us if you have any questions about what to bring. This list covers items needed for all likely conditions during the mountaineering season. Your guide will go through your clothing and gear with you prior to the climb.

You will need to bring:

  • LONG UNDERWEAR, top and bottom,  polypro, wool, capilene or fleece

  • WOOL/BLEND SOCKS (extra pairs)

  • Warm LONG PANTS to climb in. These should be wool/nylon blend knickers, fleece pants, nylon exercise pants with light long johns or wool trousers

  • Light SHIRT or T-SHIRT

  • Wool or fleece LONG SLEEVE SHIRT with collar

  • FLEECE SWEATER (medium weight)

  • Heavyweight fleece or insulated JACKET

  • Water proof OUTER JACKET with hood (Gore-Tex).

  • Waterproof OUTER PANTS, preferably with sidezips on legs

  • Waterproof knee-length GAITERS that will fit over large boots

  • Waterproof mountaineering GLOVES or wool / fleece mitts /gloves plus waterproof overmitts

  • WARM HAT (that covers ears)

  • SUNHAT with wide brim.

  • NECK TUBE

EQUIPMENT LIST

You will need to bring: (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • SLEEPING BAG. In summer the huts don't get too cold so don't bring a winter bag. We suggest a bag rated down to 00 Celsius (320 F.) but if your bag doesn't quite get down that far don't worry too much.   Make sure you bring a stuff sac that will reduce your bag to its minimum size (i.e. one with compression straps) so you don't use up all the room in your pack.

  • BACKPACK. Big enough to fit extra clothing, sleeping bag, share of food, and cooking gear. Internal frame packs are most comfortable.

  • MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS: You will need proper mountaineering boots designed specifically for this use. Most hiking boots are not suitable not being firm enough, waterproof and not made to take crampons. Mountaineering boots are made from leather or plastic. Leather boots have either a semi-rigid or a rigid sole. Plastic boots have rigid soles. The most important feature of a mountaineering boot is comfort. Different brands seem to suit different feet. If buying try a few different pairs and if they are not comfortable don't buy them. There are many good brands. They include Asolo, Kayland, Koflach, la Sportiva and Scarpa.

  • DAYPACK. Optional but good idea if backpack too unwieldy for advanced climbs. Large enough to carry spare clothing, lunch, water and climbing gear.

  • ICE AXE. For beginner instruction and ascents a regular glacier axe minimum 55cm length. For intermediate and advanced instruction and ascents an ice axe with curved pick (best is 55cm).

  • Technical ICE CLIMBING TOOL for intermediate and advanced instruction and ascents.

  • CRAMPONS. Must fit your boots.

  • HARNESS. Sit harness preferred.

  • HELMET.

  • SUNGLASSES with good UV protection, we suggest 'glacier glasses'.

  • Extra Strength SUN CREAM.

  • Lip Cream.

  • HEADLAMP with fresh batteries.

  • WATERBOTTLE (1L minimum).

  • POCKET KNIFE.

  • BLISTER KIT ('moleskin', 'Second Skin')

  • FIRST-AID Items (band-aids, ibuprofen & aspirin / Tylenol is enough as guides have a kit also).

  • CAMERA and spare film.

  • TREKKING POLE (S) (optional).

  • EAR PLUGS for dorm sleeping.

  • WALKMAN & / or READING MATTER (optional of course).

OPTIONAL ITEMS

We supply the following items, but if you have your own, please feel free to bring along - Your rack, gear sling, nut pick, belay device, prussick slings, locking biners, your guide will go through this with you to decide exactly which items you should carry on the climb.

RENTAL INFO

Contact Yamnuska with gear questions

return to top

Hut-based Mountaineering in the Bugaboos  

CLOTHING LIST

We suggest layers of light, easily carried clothing that allow for fast and easy adjustment to best suit fast changing temperature conditions.  We discourage cotton clothing as it causes rapid heat loss when wet.  Feel free to call us if you have any questions about what to bring. This list covers items needed for all likely conditions during the mountaineering season. Your guide will go through your clothing and gear with you prior to the climb.

You will need to bring:

  • LONG UNDERWEAR, top and bottom,  polypro, wool, capilene or fleece

  • WOOL/BLEND SOCKS (extra pairs)

  • Warm LONG PANTS to climb in. These should be wool/nylon blend knickers, fleece pants, nylon exercise pants with light long johns or wool trousers

  • Light SHIRT or T-SHIRT

  • Wool or fleece LONG SLEEVE SHIRT with collar

  • FLEECE SWEATER (medium weight)

  • Heavyweight fleece or insulated JACKET

  • Water proof OUTER JACKET with hood (Gore-Tex)

  • Waterproof OUTER PANTS, preferably with sidezips on legs

  • Waterproof knee-length GAITERS that will fit over large boots

  • Waterproof mountaineering GLOVES or wool / fleece mitts /gloves plus waterproof overmitts

  • WARM HAT (that covers ears)

  • SUNHAT with wide brim

  • NECK TUBE

EQUIPMENT LIST

You will need to bring: (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • SLEEPING BAG. In summer the huts don't get too cold so don't bring a winter bag. We suggest a bag rated down to 00 Celsius (320 F.) but if your bag doesn't quite get down that far don't worry too much.   Make sure you bring a stuff sac that will reduce your bag to its minimum size (i.e. one with compression straps) so you don't use up all the room in your pack.

  • BACKPACK. Big enough to fit extra clothing, sleeping bag, share of food, and cooking gear. Internal frame packs are most comfortable.

  • MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS. Ideally these should be proper leather mountaineering boots with either a semi-rigid or a rigid sole. It is possible to buy boots such as the La Sportiva "Trango" which is designed specifically for alpine rock and which can take a crampon. We suggest bringing a pair of comfortably fitting rock shoes as well. They will increase enjoyment on more technical rock. As always the most important feature of a mountaineering boot is comfort. Different brands seem to suit different feet. If buying try a few different pairs and if they are not comfortable don't buy them. There are many good brands. They include Asolo, Kayland, Koflach, la Sportiva and Scarpa.

  • ROCK SHOES. A pair of comfortably fitting rock shoes are essential to the enjoyment of your experience.

  • DAYPACK. Optional but good idea if backpack too unwieldy for advanced climbs. Large enough to carry spare clothing, lunch, water and climbing gear.

  • ICE AXE. A regular glacier axe minimum 55cm length.

  • CRAMPONS. Must fit your boots.

  • HARNESS. Sit harness preferred.

  • HELMET.

  • SUNGLASSES with good UV protection, we suggest 'glacier glasses'.

  • Extra Strength SUN CREAM.

  • Lip Cream.

  • HEADLAMP with fresh batteries.

  • WATERBOTTLE (1L minimum).

  • POCKET KNIFE.

  • BLISTER KIT ('moleskin', 'Second Skin')

  • FIRST-AID Items (band-aids, ibuprofen & aspirin / Tylenol is enough as guides have a kit also).

  • CAMERA and spare film.

  • TREKKING POLE (S) (optional).

  • EAR PLUGS for dorm sleeping.

  • WALKMAN & / or READING MATTER (optional of course).

OPTIONAL ITEMS

We supply the following items, but if you have your own, please feel free to bring along - Your rack, gear sling, nut pick, belay device, prussick slings, locking biners, your guide will go through this with you to decide exactly which items you should carry on the climb.

RENTAL INFO

Contact Yamnuska with gear questions

return to top

Mount Assiniboine Ascents 

CLOTHING LIST

We suggest layers of light, easily carried clothing that allow for fast and easy adjustment to best suit fast changing temperature conditions.  We discourage cotton clothing as it causes rapid heat loss when wet.  Feel free to call us if you have any questions about what to bring. This list covers items needed for all likely conditions during the mountaineering season. Your guide will go through your clothing and gear with you prior to the climb.

You will need to bring:

  • LONG UNDERWEAR, top and bottom,  polypro, wool, capilene or fleece

  • WOOL/BLEND SOCKS (extra pairs)

  • Warm LONG PANTS to climb in. These should be wool/nylon blend knickers, fleece pants, nylon exercise pants with light long johns or wool trousers

  • Light SHIRT or T-SHIRT

  • Wool or fleece LONG SLEEVE SHIRT with collar

  • FLEECE SWEATER (medium weight)

  • Heavyweight fleece or insulated JACKET

  • Water proof OUTER JACKET with hood (Gore-Tex)

  • Waterproof OUTER PANTS, preferably with sidezips on legs

  • Waterproof knee-length GAITERS that will fit over large boots

  • Waterproof mountaineering GLOVES or wool / fleece mitts /gloves plus waterproof overmitts

  • WARM HAT (that covers ears)

  • SUNHAT with wide brim

  • NECK TUBE

EQUIPMENT LIST

You will need to bring: (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • SLEEPING BAG. In summer the huts don't get too cold so don't bring a winter bag. We suggest a bag rated down to 00 Celsius (320 F.) but if your bag doesn't quite get down that far don't worry too much.   Make sure you bring a stuff sac that will reduce your bag to its minimum size (i.e. one with compression straps) so you don't use up all the room in your pack.

  • BACKPACK. Big enough to fit extra clothing, sleeping bag, share of food, and cooking gear. Internal frame packs are most comfortable.

  • MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS. Ideally these should be proper leather mountaineering boots with either a semi-rigid or a rigid sole. It is possible to buy boots such as the La Sportiva "Trango" which is designed specifically for alpine rock and which can take a crampon. We suggest bringing a pair of comfortably fitting rock shoes as well. They will increase enjoyment on more technical rock. As always the most important feature of a mountaineering boot is comfort. Different brands seem to suit different feet. If buying try a few different pairs and if they are not comfortable don't buy them. There are many good brands. They include Asolo, Kayland, Koflach, la Sportiva and Scarpa.

  • DAYPACK. Optional but good idea if backpack too unwieldy for advanced climbs. Large enough to carry spare clothing, lunch, water and climbing gear.

  • ICE AXE. A regular glacier axe minimum 55cm length.

  • CRAMPONS. Must fit your boots.

  • HARNESS. Sit harness preferred.

  • HELMET.

  • SUNGLASSES with good UV protection, we suggest 'glacier glasses'.

  • Extra Strength SUN CREAM.

  • Lip Cream.

  • HEADLAMP with fresh batteries.

  • WATERBOTTLE (1L minimum).

  • POCKET KNIFE.

  • BLISTER KIT ('moleskin', 'Second Skin')

  • FIRST-AID Items (band-aids, ibuprofen & aspirin / Tylenol is enough as guides have a kit also).

  • CAMERA and spare film.

  • TREKKING POLE (S) (optional).

  • EAR PLUGS for dorm sleeping.

  • WALKMAN & / or READING MATTER (optional of course).

OPTIONAL ITEMS

We supply the following items, but if you have your own, please feel free to bring along - Your rack, gear sling, nut pick, belay device, prussick slings, locking biners, your guide will go through this with you to decide exactly which items you should carry on the climb.

RENTAL INFO

Contact Yamnuska with gear questions

return to top

Mount Robson and other high-camp Mountaineering Trips 

CLOTHING LIST

We suggest layers of light, easily carried clothing that allow for fast and easy adjustment to best suit fast changing temperature conditions.  We discourage cotton clothing as it causes rapid heat loss when wet.  Feel free to call us if you have any questions about what to bring. This list covers items needed for all likely conditions during the mountaineering season. Your guide will go through your clothing and gear with you prior to the climb.

You will need to bring:

  • LONG UNDERWEAR, top and bottom,  polypro, wool, capilene or fleece

  • WOOL/BLEND SOCKS (extra pairs)

  • Warm LONG PANTS to climb in. These should be wool/nylon blend knickers, fleece pants, nylon exercise pants with light long johns or wool trousers

  • Light SHIRT or T-SHIRT

  • Wool or fleece LONG SLEEVE SHIRT with collar

  • FLEECE SWEATER (medium weight)

  • Heavyweight fleece or insulated JACKET

  • Water proof OUTER JACKET with hood (Gore-Tex)

  • Waterproof OUTER PANTS, preferably with sidezips on legs

  • Waterproof knee-length GAITERS that will fit over large boots

  • Waterproof mountaineering GLOVES or wool / fleece mitts /gloves plus waterproof overmitts

  • WARM HAT (that covers ears)

  • SUNHAT with wide brim

  • NECK TUBE

PERSONAL CAMPING GEAR (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • SLEEPING BAG. We suggest a bag rated down to -100 Celsius (c. -150 F.)   Make sure you bring a stuff sac that will reduce your bag to its minimum size (i.e. one with compression straps) so you don't use up all the room in your pack.

  • BACKPACK. At least 75 Liter capacity, internal frame with accessory straps. Big enough to fit extra clothing, sleeping bag, share of food, and cooking gear.

  • SLEEPING PADS. We suggest a 'Thermarest' plus an 'ensolite' pad for maximum comfort camping on snow.

  • Unbreakable large plastic BOWL, or JUG.

  • Light Mug & Spoon, Pocket Knife.

  • Pee Bottle (optional).

  • Light Stuff Sacs (optional).

  • Water Bottles. 2 x  'wide mouth' 1L 'Nalgene'

EQUIPMENT LIST

You will need to bring: (Items in blue are available to rent from Yamnuska)

  • BACKPACK. At least 75 Liter capacity, internal frame with accessory straps. Big enough to fit extra clothing, sleeping bag, share of food, and cooking gear.

  • MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS:

    1. Mount Robson & Snow & Ice climbs. Should be rigid soled mountaineering boots (leather or plastic). If buying boots ensure that they are designed specifically for mountaineering, as hiking boots are not suitable. The most important feature of a mountaineering boots is comfort. Different brands tend to suit different foot shapes. Try out several brands before buying. Popular brands include: Asolo, Kayland, Koflach, La Sportiva and Scarpa among many.

    2. Alpine Rock areas with mainly rock objectives: Ideally these should be proper leather mountaineering boots with either a semi-rigid or a rigid sole. It is possible to buy boots such as the La Sportiva "Trango" which is designed specifically for alpine rock and which can take a crampon. We suggest bringing a pair of comfortably fitting rock shoes as well. They will increase enjoyment on more technical rock. As always the most important feature of a mountaineering boot is comfort. Different brands seem to suit different feet. If buying try a few different pairs and if they are not comfortable don't buy them. There are many good brands. ROCK SHOES. Only needed if attempting planning to climb technical rock routes. Should be comfortably-fitting.

  • DAYPACK. Optional but good idea if backpack too unwieldy for advanced climbs. Large enough to carry spare clothing, lunch, water and climbing gear.

  • ICE AXE. For beginner instruction and ascents a regular glacier axe minimum 55cm length. For intermediate and advanced instruction and ascents an ice axe with curved pick (best is 55cm).

  • Technical ICE CLIMBING TOOL only if intermediate and advanced instruction and ascents intended.

  • CRAMPONS. Must fit your boots.

  • HARNESS. Sit harness preferred.

  • HELMET.

  • SUNGLASSES with good UV protection, we suggest 'glacier glasses'.

  • Extra Strength SUN CREAM.

  • Lip Cream.

  • HEADLAMP with fresh batteries.

  • WATERBOTTLE (1L minimum).

  • BLISTER KIT ('moleskin', 'Second Skin')

  • FIRST-AID Items (band-aids, ibuprofen & aspirin / Tylenol is enough as guides have a kit also).

  • CAMERA and spare film.

  • TREKKING POLE (S) (optional).

  • EAR PLUGS.

  • WALKMAN & / or READING MATTER (optional of course).

OPTIONAL ITEMS

We supply the following items, but if you have your own, please feel free to bring along - Your rack, gear sling, nut pick, belay device, prussick slings, locking biners, your guide will go through this with you to decide exactly which items you should carry on the climb.

RENTAL INFO

Contact Yamnuska with gear questions

return to top