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Now Climbing & She Moves Mountains Present

Chamonix Intro to Alpine Rock Week


CHAMONIX, FRANCE | AUGUST 21-28, 2022 | ALL GENDERS WELCOME


“Achievement is not about what you’ve done, but what you you’ve gained from your experience.”

-Lynn Hill


1/9

 

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If you want to climb some of the best alpine rock on the planet, look no further. More importantly, if you also want lifts, huts, short approaches, amazing views and delicious food from wine and cheese to beer and bakeries, you really won’t find a better place than Chamonix. There are a lot of reasons that Chamonix is the coolest mountain town on Earth, but don't take our word for it - come join us for a week of food, fun and sunny stone to see what it's all about.  


If you haven’t been, it’s hard to really appreciate the scale, diversity, and quality of the climbing and mountain culture the Alps have to offer, and nowhere is that truer than Chamonix. The beating heart of the Alps, Chamonix is a Mecca for climbers. With routes ranging from snow and ice climbs to rock faces, soaring alpine ridges, and anything you can imagine, the towering spires of the Mont Blanc Massif are where it all started. 


Over a week with our industry-leading IFMGA Mountain Guides you’ll learn the techniques you need to approach multi-pitch rock climbs with confidence. We'll cover everything from gear selection and packing for alpine rock climbs to multipitch climbing and belay techniques. You'll learn a variety of rope systems for ascending and descending rock routes, as well as basic snow climbing with ice axes and crampons. We'll also cover the basics of glacier travel and crevasse rescue so that you can feel confident getting to and from any climb. Most of all though, we're going climbing. 

CLIMBING IN CHAMONIX

At the heart of Chamonix’s mountains are a stunning lineup of towers and spires home to some of the most iconic and adored routes in the world. The Mont Blanc Massif is literally a climber's playground. With a huge amount of stone of many types, the area has something for everybody. The heart of the range is composed of impeccable golden granite, and with an incredible network of trains, lifts, huts and trails, it's all easy to get to as well. Chamonix granite comes in all shapes of sizes too, yielding routes ranging from moderate ridges and rock climbs to massive faces and endless splitter cracks. Many of these are reached via short glacier crossings, bringing a unique set of alpine skills to bear. 


Below the glaciers, Chamonix also offers a host of options with no snow at all. Those include sunny bolted and traditionally-protected routes, epic ridge traverses and scrambles, and single and multi-pitch climbs on a variety of rock types including gneiss, granite and limestone.


We’ll move between skills sessions and climbing routes of all sizes with the goal of making you an efficient, competent and confident alpine rock climber. Each day we’ll make sure you’re paired with climbers and climbs that match your ability so you don’t have to worry about being held back or pushed too far. Our expert guides are all internationally certified with the IFMGA badge, “the PhD of mountain climbing.” The best in the business, they’ll help you through the training and skills you need both on the ground and on route. 


Our low ratios are also what make this program unique. The entire week we'll be in groups of two climbers per guide to maximize your learning and fun and give you the best experience of these incredible mountains. 

FOOD & ACCOMMODATIONS

One of the best parts of climbing in the Alps - especially for American climbers used to long slogs, heavy packs and sleeping in tents - is that you get to combine a climbing trip with a European vacation. Sure the mountains are the best in the world, but you’re also in France, which means the food, hotels and mountain huts are superb as well. 


In addition to being located in one of the great mountain ranges of the world, Chamonix is also one of the planet’s great mountain towns. With everything from nightlife to wine bars, fondue joints and fine dining, Chamonix has it all. It also hosts some of the most gorgeous chalets and hotels in the Alps, and we’ll be based out of the hip and centrally-located Hotel Pointe Isabelle. Just a few minutes walk from everything in town, it’s a perfect home base for any adventure. 


In addition to our lovely hotel, we’ll also spend a night in one of our favorite mountain huts. Situated on the south side of the Vallée Blanche peering into the Italian side of the range, the Torino Hut comes complete with comfy beds, delicious food, and incredible views. 


We like to try hard, but we also like to relax and live well, so we’ve hand-picked our favorite hotels, restaurants, bakeries and snacks to give you a taste of it all.

DETAILS


Retreat dates: August 21-28, 2022

Cost: $4695.00 to $4995.00 depending on room selection


 

 

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WHAT'S INCLUDED: 

  • Airport transfers to and from the Geneva Airport upon arrival and departure
  • Transportation to and from all climbing and outings including lift, gondola and tram tickets in and around Chamonix
  • Seven nights’ accommodation in luxury hotels and mountain huts 
  • Breakfast and dinners at the Torino Hut (Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are available, but celiacs or those with dietary restrictions may find the huts challenging.)  
  • Daily breakfasts at the Pointe Isabelle in Chamonix
  • Welcome and farewell dinners and drinks in Chamonix
  • Low-ratio, personalized guiding from certified IFMGA Mountain Guides with local expertise


WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED: 

  • Travel Protection
  • Airfare
  • Lunches and dinners in Chamonix 
  • Snacks and lunches for climbing
  • Bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, snacks or extra food in the huts 
  • Personal climbing equipment
  • Ability to control the weather (In a worst-case scenario we may have to change plans completely due to weather and conditions, but we’ll do our best!)
  • Additional hut stays or overnight expenses (See FAQ below) 
  • Gratuities for your guides
  • Any additional COVID requirements that may come up such as testing before we leave France (although we will organize and communicate any additional requirements)




PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS: 

  • No mountaineering or multi-pitch climbing experience is required, but some rock climbing experience is helpful. If you can climb a 5.9 in the gym without taking or falling, you'll likely have a good time in Chamonix.  
  • This course will not involve camping or heavy packs, but you should be ready to hike for multiple hours mulitple days in a row, on and off trail, and to climb on snow, rock and ice.  
  • Climbers should feel capable of hiking with a 20lb backpack while ascending and descending up to 1,000’ of elevation in a day. 
  • A climbing harness, rock shoes, helmet, mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axe and pack are required for this course. If you don’t want to buy them, all of these items are available for rent in Chamonix at relatively low cost. We’re happy to help you with gear (just ask), and a complete equipment list can be found here.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • *Please note that it is mandatory for all participants to be fully vaccinated prior to attending this trip. 


ROOM SELECTION & PRICING: 

  • Bed in shared room $4,795 (two remaining)
  • Bed in private room $4,995 (two remaining)
  • Please note that private rooms are not available in the mountain huts regardless of room selection





 

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The Schedule

Day 1: Welcome to Chamonix!

You get yourself to the airport in Geneva and we’ll arrange your transport to Chamonix. The drive is beautiful and just a little over an hour as you leave the green hills of Switzerland behind for the craggy peaks of the Chamonix Valley. We don’t like to make anybody do too much after a long day of travel, so you’ll be on your own to explore and shake off the jetlag, and your only job will be to find something tasty for dinner and to try to get some sleep.

Day 2: School of Rock

We’ll officially start the trip with breakfast at the hotel before getting our gear together and heading out for the day. We’ll start our training with rock climbing on one of the many fantastic crags around Chamonix, most likely at the top of the Brévent lift. For those interested in leading throughout the week we'll conduct some brief belay tests, and we’ll practice with the rope systems we’ll be using in the mountains. We’ll work on techniques for multi-pitch climbing, belaying, and rappelling, and for folks with multi-pitch experience experience already, you’ll have the opportunity to learn a few new tricks and just enjoy some climbing. After a full day, we’ll head back to town for a welcome dinner and another night at the Pointe Isabelle.

Day 3: Snow School

After another breakfast, we’ll make sure everyone has everything they need and go over the basics of equipment and packing before heading up the famous Aiguille du Midi cable car. The lift will take us up 9300' to the top to the Valée Blanche, which we'll cross with another panoramic lift ride to the Italian side of the range. From there we’ll drop our overnight gear off at the Torino Hut and head out onto the glacier. We'll spend the day covering the basics of snow climbing with crampons and ice axes before moving on to glacier travel and crevasse rescue. We’ll show you how to manage a rope for moving up and down glaciers, and we’ll spend the afternoon working on crevasse rescue, covering essential techniques for getting a fallen climber out of a bind. After that we’ll head back for a night at the hut, which comes equipped with beds in shared rooms, and serves simple but hearty dinners and breakfasts. They also have beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks, and will provide sandwiches and other lunch foods on request. 

Day 4: Climbing Day #1

This will be the culmination of everything you’ve learned so far as we’ll start the day with breakfast in the hut before heading out in small teams to climb for the day. There are hundreds of classic climbs just a short walk away, and all of them will use our new glacier travel skills to get us to some perfect rock. What exactly we climb will depend on weather and conditions, but whatever we choose, we’ll be aiming for some of the most iconic climbs of the range, like a traverse of the Aiguilles d’Entrèves, the East Face of the Pyramide du Tacul, or routes on the Tour Ronde, Pointe Adolphe Rey, Pointe Lachenal, or even the Dent du Geant or Grand Capucin. At of the day we'll get back to the hut and ride the lift back down to Chamonix. 

Day 5: Climbing Day #2

Once again, we'll start with breakfast at the hotel before heading out to climb. With only one other climber and a guide, you'll be free to focus on routes that suit your style and ability, and that can be anything from another big granite route to a fun traverse or a bolted multi-pitch on the other side of the valley. These days are just meant to be fun, so the world is your oyster. For those interested in working on skills, you'll have one of the absolute best guides in the business at your disposal, and we dare you not to have a good time. We’ll once again finish the day in Chamonix where you'll be free to explore town for the evening. 

Day 6: Climbing Day #3

You'll once again have the day climb whatever you want. Some of our favorites include the Voie Contamine on the Pointe Lachenal, the Rebuffat on the south face of the Aiguille du Midi, the Arête des Papillons and the Voie Normale on the Aiguille du Peigne, Nabot Leon on the Blatiere, a traverse of the Aiguilles Crochues and the Frison-Roche on the Brevent. That route, for example, involves riding a lift up into the sunshine and hiking downhill for about 15 minutes before climbing a 7-pitch sport route back up to the lift station where you can grab a beer before riding back down to town. If you haven't gotten the idea yet, you'll just have to trust us on that whole Chamonix is a playground thing. Whatever you do, you'll once again have the evening to yourself. 

Day 7: Climbing Day #4

This will be your last day to climb in paradise, so we’ll break into small teams once again to tackle one more of the climbs that make Chamonix famous. Whether you decide to go big and crank hard or get something delicious at the bakery (or both) is up to you. Either way, we'll finish up with a farewell dinner party at a local favorite, the Bighorn Bistro. 

Day 8: Heading Home

Unfortunately all good things must come to an end, and you’ll have to go home. A short journey from hotel to airport should have you on your way. Of course we recommend staying a few more days to climb or relax, but that one’s up to you. 

Private Guiding Add-On

  If you’d like stay on to do some more climbing, just let us know and we’d be happy to book you in with one of our guides to continue your adventure. We’ll have barely scratched the surface of what the area has to offer, so if you’d like to join us for another day or skills, another peak ascent, or some sunny rock climbing in France or nearby Italy or Switzerland, we’ll be happy to tailor a few more days just for you. Prices start at $500 per day for one climber or $550 for two, and larger groups may be possible depending on the objective. If you’d like us to suggest some itineraries, we’d be happy to help!

 

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MEET YOUR GUIDES

Giulia Monego

Giulia Monego

Giulia Monego

IFMGA Mountain Guide / Superwoman


A local through and through and our expert in all things Italian, Giulia  was born in Venice and fell in love with the mountains sliding on snow  in the Dolomites. She grew up as a ski racer, then switched to competing  on the Freeride World tour, and is one of only a handful of women to complete the IFMGA

IFMGA Mountain Guide / Superwoman


A local through and through and our expert in all things Italian, Giulia  was born in Venice and fell in love with the mountains sliding on snow  in the Dolomites. She grew up as a ski racer, then switched to competing  on the Freeride World tour, and is one of only a handful of women to complete the IFMGA certification in Italy. Giulia lives in Chamonix,  France and works, skis and climbs full time. These days she even loves warm rock almost as much as cold snow, and can’t wait to bring her local  knowledge to our programs in her old stomping ground.

Chris Wright

Giulia Monego

Giulia Monego

IFMGA/AMGA Mountain Guide / AMGA Certified Rock Guide


Now!Climbing’s founder and lead guide, Chris has climbed, skied and  eaten his way across the globe. Winner of the “Gold Medal of Alpinism,” the Piolet d’Or for the first ascent of 7041m Link Sar in Pakistan, he’s as excited about his next cappuccino as he is about his next big climb. I

IFMGA/AMGA Mountain Guide / AMGA Certified Rock Guide


Now!Climbing’s founder and lead guide, Chris has climbed, skied and  eaten his way across the globe. Winner of the “Gold Medal of Alpinism,” the Piolet d’Or for the first ascent of 7041m Link Sar in Pakistan, he’s as excited about his next cappuccino as he is about his next big climb. In addition to being an instructor for the American Mountain Guides  Association (AMGA), Chris has spent his summer seasons working, climbing, playing and eating in the Alps since 2014.

Erin Smart

Erica Engle

Erica Engle

IFMGA/AMGA Mountain Guide / AMGA Certified Rock Guide 


Originally from Seattle, Erin grew up skiing and climbing in the Cascades of Washington State and has since traveled and worked in mountain ranges around the world including Norway, Alaska, Himalaya, and the Alps. She has Erin has pioneered first ski descents across the globe, has been

IFMGA/AMGA Mountain Guide / AMGA Certified Rock Guide 


Originally from Seattle, Erin grew up skiing and climbing in the Cascades of Washington State and has since traveled and worked in mountain ranges around the world including Norway, Alaska, Himalaya, and the Alps. She has Erin has pioneered first ski descents across the globe, has been mountain guiding since 2010, and lives in La Grave, France. In addition to working year round in the mountains, she is also a freelance writer and has been published in outdoor magazines from Backcountry to Alpinist.


Erica Engle

Erica Engle

Erica Engle

IFMGA/AMGA Mountain Guide / AMGA Certified Rock Guide 


Erica was raised in the Pacific Northwest and lives in Twisp, Washington. She learned to climb and ski in the Cascades, and has since  guided ski, rock and alpine objectives throughout the world. She is an instructor for the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), and  enjoys shar

IFMGA/AMGA Mountain Guide / AMGA Certified Rock Guide 


Erica was raised in the Pacific Northwest and lives in Twisp, Washington. She learned to climb and ski in the Cascades, and has since  guided ski, rock and alpine objectives throughout the world. She is an instructor for the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), and  enjoys sharing mountain experiences with her students and guests by  engaging their sense of adventure and a love of exploration.

 

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW MANY PARTICIPANTS COME BY THEMSELVES?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF CLIMBERS WHO ATTEND?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF CLIMBERS WHO ATTEND?

The majority of climbers come to our retreats alone - somewhere around 90%.  If you are hesitating to join because you would be coming solo, please know that we expect a majority of our participants to be joining by themselves.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF CLIMBERS WHO ATTEND?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF CLIMBERS WHO ATTEND?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF CLIMBERS WHO ATTEND?

We generally have a wide range of ages at our retreats. The average tends to fall  between the ages of 30 to 45. But we have had quite a few climbers in their 60's join as well. It really is up to the attitude and physical ability of the participant.

I'VE NEVER CLIMBED BEFORE. CAN I STILL ATTEND?

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF CLIMBERS WHO ATTEND?

I'VE NEVER CLIMBED BEFORE. CAN I STILL ATTEND?

You do not need to be an experienced climber to attend but we recommend some climbing experience before signing up for a full week of climbing. We ask that everyone attending is able to top rope a 5.9 in a climbing gym without taking or falling. We are aware that climbing 5.9 in a climbing gym is much different than climbing a 5.9 outside, but having the ability to climb 5.9 in a climbing gym will set you up to have a great time in Chamonix. With multiple guides and options we can accommodate a wide range of abilities.

ARE PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE?

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON THE TRIP?

I'VE NEVER CLIMBED BEFORE. CAN I STILL ATTEND?

Yes, we have payment plans available. To reserve a spot we require a 50% deposit, of which 10% of the total cost of the trip is non-refundable. Apply the discount code "retreatdeposit" at checkout to take advantage of this option. Full payment will be required May 21st.

WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON THE TRIP?

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON THE TRIP?

We have a very strict cancellation policy. Please review it before committing to this retreat. We HIGHLY recommend purchasing trip protection as we will not modify our cancellation policy under any circumstances. 

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON THE TRIP?

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON THE TRIP?

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON THE TRIP?

Because alpine climbing can only safely be done in small groups, this trip will be much smaller than some of our others.. If the trip sells out, we will have 10 climbers and 5 guides. 

DO I HAVE TO LEAD OR HAVE LEAD CLIMBING EXPERIENCE?

DO I HAVE TO LEAD OR HAVE LEAD CLIMBING EXPERIENCE?

DO I HAVE TO LEAD OR HAVE LEAD CLIMBING EXPERIENCE?

Absolutely not! The climbing and our guides are amazing, and this is a  perfect introduction to mutilpitch trad climbing for anybody, leaders and followers alike. How much learning you want to do is up to you, and we're just here to help. 

CAN WE SPEND MORE NIGHTS IN HUTS?

DO I HAVE TO LEAD OR HAVE LEAD CLIMBING EXPERIENCE?

DO I HAVE TO LEAD OR HAVE LEAD CLIMBING EXPERIENCE?

A lot of great climbs can be done as day-trips from Chamonix, but in some instances a night at a hut before or after the climb can be nice, especially if, for example, you end up taking a little longer than expected and miss the last lift back to town. Some climbs are just also far enough into the mountains that you'll need a night at a hut to do them. That's fine, and if you want to spend any more nights in the huts you'll just be asked to pay for your stay and food as well as your guide's, which is usually about $80 per person. 

WHAT IF I NEED A DAY OFF?

DO I HAVE TO LEAD OR HAVE LEAD CLIMBING EXPERIENCE?

WHAT IF I NEED A DAY OFF?

No problem! You can feel free to take a rest day any day of the trip you like after the instructional sessions on Days 2 & 3. Not every day has to be huge either, so just let us know if you need a short day and we've got lots of options. Also if you need to rest your muscles but your brain is still willing, you can always spend a day working on skills or just going to the crag. This is a climbing vacation, which is still a vacation after all. 

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