Learn the basics of mountaineering on a legendary glacier
The ice school is a one-day introductory course designed to help you learn, understand and experience the basics of glacier mountaineering in an exceptional setting. Setting off from Montenvers, accessible by rack railway, you’ll head to the Mer de Glace for a hands-on immersion in the world of glaciers. From the very first steps on the ice, the objective is clear: to discover the fundamental techniques that enable you to move safely in the high mountains.
This day’s outing differs from a simple glacier hike: here, you don’t just come to admire the glacier, you come to learn how to move across it. With your guide, you’ll take the time to kit yourself out properly, understand the role of each piece of equipment, and then learn the correct techniques for moving on ice. The approach is gradual, accessible and educational, ideal for those wishing to take their first steps in mountaineering before embarking on a more ambitious project in the Mont Blanc massif.
The ice school on the Mer de Glace is also a wonderful opportunity to gain a better understanding of the glacial environment. As you move across the glacier, you observe its shapes, movements and features: moraines, surface flows, kettle holes, ice streams, and very concrete signs of the transformation of Alpine glaciers.
Accessible to regular outdoor enthusiasts, this activity requires no prior mountaineering experience. It is an excellent introduction to exploring glacial terrain in a serious yet friendly atmosphere, in direct contact with the high mountains. It is an ideal adventure for curious enthusiasts, motivated beginners, or even those considering a glacier trek, an introductory mountaineering course, or a more challenging project with a guide.
Key information
- Duration: 1 day.
- Location: Mer de Glace, Montenvers sector – Chamonix – Mont Blanc massif.
- Level: intended for athletes who engage in regular physical activity.
- Objective: to learn the basics of glacier mountaineering: crampons, ice axe, knots, roped walking.
- Supervision: trip led by a high-mountain guide.
- Experience required: no prior experience with crampons is necessary.
- Access: ascent to Montenvers by rack railway, then access to the glacier by cable car.
- Available formats: group or private, depending on the chosen option.
- Equipment: please bring mountain clothing and, depending on the package chosen, technical equipment: ice axe, crampons, harness, helmet, mountaineering boots.
- Educational value: exploring the glacier and raising awareness of the effects of global warming in the Alps.
Liste du matériel.
