Dry Tooling/Mixed Climbing

Season: Winter

Duration: 8 hours

Group size: Up to 2

Locations: Vail

Description

Our Dry Tooling/Mixed Climbing Course is designed to equip climbers with the skills needed to confidently tackle routes that combine ice and rock. This course introduces participants to dry tooling techniques—using ice tools on rock—and advanced mixed ice climbing maneuvers. You'll refine your ice climbing techniques, discuss about foot placement and equipment maintenance, effectively use specialized gear such as technical crampons and mixed climbing tools, master rope management specific to mixed terrain, and develop efficient movement strategies on both ice and rock surfaces.

Throughout the day, expert guides will lead you through progressive drills focusing on tool placement, body positioning, and transitions between ice and rock. You will practice on varied terrain under controlled conditions, receiving personalized coaching to refine your technique. Emphasis is placed on safety protocols and managing the unique risks of mixed climbing environments.

By the end of the course, a comprehensive debrief will provide key insights and practice recommendations, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to pursue mixed climbing independently or as a foundation for more advanced alpine objectives.

What can you expect from your day

Typical schedule

Note: schedule may change based on location and weather

  • Morning: Arrive at the trailhead (based on location this can be either 5:30am or 7:30am). Perform gear check and morning briefing in the parking lot

  • Mid-morning: Hike to the ice climbing location. This can range between 30 min to 1 hour. Location will change based on the ice quality and weather.

  • Late morning: Instruction on mixed ice climbing techniques

  • Afternoon: Climb ice and practice your techniques.

  • Late afternoon: wrap-up with group debrief and next-step recommendations.

FAQ

    • Harness

    • Helmet

    • Mountaineering boots

    • Crampons

    • 30L backpack

    • Clothing layers as appropriate to the weather

    • Puffy coat for belaying

    • at least 2 pairs of thin gloves and 1 pair of mittens

    • Snacks/hydration (water bottles, thermos. No bladders since the water tube will freeze)

      Helmets, mountaineering boots, harnesses, crampons are available to rent by request

  • Yes, climbers should have experience with climbing up to MI3 on top rope

  • The biggest risk is cold exposure and being unaware of your body’s response to cold. Ice fall and rock fall are also risks. but we will help you understand where to stand to avoid this.

Jesse Tembrevilla Ramos

Owner and Head Guide

Read my bio

Why Hire a Certified Guide?

  • Professional Training & Experience
    AMGA-certified guides bring world-class skills in mountain navigation, safety, and risk management — ensuring you’re in expert hands from start to finish.

  • Customized to You
    We tailor each day based on your fitness, interests, and goals. Whether you're new to hiking or looking to level up, we’ll design the perfect experience.

  • Safety & Logistics Handled
    Route planning, permits, weather assessments, gear recommendations, and emergency preparedness — it’s all taken care of.

  • Learn As You Go
    Gain valuable mountain skills, from efficient hiking techniques to trail navigation, layering systems, and altitude management.

What's Included with all BMG Trips

  • Route planning and customization

  • Safety equipment and group gear

  • Pre-trip consultation (gear, fitness, altitude)

  • Optional transportation and gear rental coordination

All trips are operated with a focus on Leave No Trace ethics, environmental stewardship, and mountain safety.