Advanced Mountaineering School

This badge represents the successful completion of the Advanced Mountain School (AMS). AMS trains mountaineers to successfully plan and climb peaks and to survive winter conditions in a high altitude environment. Instruction includes glacier travel, crampons, snow shelter construction, winter camping, crevasse rescue, ice climbing, and high-peak ascent. AMS also includes topics such as equipment, winter camping techniques, high-peak climbing, high altitude, cold weather, remote area first aid, trip organization, group dynamics, nutrition and training. This is an advanced program. Applicants are expected to meet minimum requirements, including completion of CMC's Basic Mountaineering School or an equivalent mountaineering course, basic knowledge of placing and using rock-climbing anchors and protection, several high peak climbs including technical and snow routes, backpacking experience, completion of several rock climbs, participation in winter activities, and a high level of physical fitness.