Taster Course Mountaineering

Basic
1 day
Mountaineers are hiking up a snowfield.
Mountaineers pack their backpacks at the mountain hut.
Mountaineers on the ascent with glacier in the background
First glimpse into mountaineering
Learn the basics safely and practically
Ideal for trying out without prior knowledge

Season:

May October

Departure Times

08:45

Key info

You don't need any prior experience in mountaineering or climbing

Overview

Recommended for: Anyone looking for the mountain beyond the postcard.

Learn the basics and discover if mountaineering could be your new passion – a day full of first steps.

This introductory course gives you a glimpse into mountaineering. You will learn what to watch out for, how to handle the equipment, and how to recognize dangers. In high alpine terrain, you will take your first steps on unfamiliar ground; always with a focus on safety and technique. A hands-on day for anyone aiming to reach new heights in the mountains.

Course details

Academy

Learning objectives

  • Learn to assess terrain and objective hazards
  • Practice basic movement in steep and rocky terrain
  • Get to know and use technical mountaineering equipment
  • Practice and reinforce walking techniques on rock and snow
  • Practice rope handling
  • Recognize subjective risk factors (e.g., overconfidence, group dynamics).

Assessment methods

Progress is continuously assessed

Feedback is provided situationally by the mountain guide during practical exercises.

Certification

Certificate: Introductory Mountaineering Course

Upon completion of the day course, participants receive a certificate. This confirms successful participation in the Introductory Mountaineering Course in Grindelwald, but is intended as a keepsake and is not an official document.

Issued by:
Outdoor Switzerland AG

Itinerary

Meeting points
After a brief welcome and equipment check at the OUTDOOR Shop & Café, we take the First cable car to higher altitudes. From the mountain station at 2,164 m above sea level, we continue on foot to Bachalpsee. Here begins the introduction: We discuss equipment, techniques, and basic rules for safe travel in alpine terrain. On a circular tour with easy climbing sections, you will experience what it means to move in rocky terrain. Focus is on surefootedness, body position, and balance. You will learn to assess dangers like rockfall or sudden weather changes and realistically gauge your own abilities. There will be plenty of time for questions and personal tips. To conclude, we descend in a controlled manner and reflect on the day's key insights. A solid introduction for anyone wanting to further explore mountaineering.

Whats included

Guiding from a licenced mountain guide/ aspirant guide
Expenses of the mountain guide
Technical equipment
Course Certificate

Not included

Costs for cable cars and travel expenses of the guest
Snacks
Costs for a taxi if needed (guests pay for the guide's share)

Pack list

Weather info

General weather info

Weather can influence any tour, and a clear decision is often only possible on the day itself. We review conditions carefully and remain within our safety limits, and bad weather alone does not mean we have to stop.

Make sure we can reach you with current contact information in case your booking changes. Silence from us means your tour is still planned or the final call is not yet made. If we need to cancel, you can rebook, choose another activity, or get a full refund.

For detailed advice on how to prepare for (and enjoy!) bad weather days in Interlaken, check out our weather blog 

Meeting points

Meeting point

OUTDOOR - Shop and Café Grindelwald

Dorfstrasse 103, 3818 Grindelwald
DirectionsMore info
Meeting points
Activity location

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