Winter Mountaineering Course in Chamonix | Adventure Base
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Mountaineering

Winter Mountaineering Course in Chamonix

Are you looking for a winter mountaineering tour that introduces you to the wilder, colder, and snowy side of climbing in the Alps? Welcome to our Chamonix winter climbing course! Taking place in October and November, when the pleasant weather of summer becomes a distant memory, you will learn essential mountain skills such as crevasse rescue, ice climbing, and roping up on glaciers, all in a high mountain environment.

This course is highly popular because the Alps are far quieter at this time of year, especially when compared to the busy summer months. But it’s also a genuine challenge that will take your skills and experience to a whole new level in preparation for future Alpine mountaineering tours.

Ready for winter mountaineering in Chamonix? Scroll down to find out more about this tour, and please just contact us if you have any questions.
Duration
4 Nights
Start location
Chamonix, France
Date(s)
October - November
Difficulty
Intermediate
Book Now From €1.510,00 Make an enquiry
Sunrise over a glacier and alpine peaks

Chamonix Winter Climbing: What to Expect

Early Winter in the Alps is a beautiful time of year and far quieter than the busy summer months. The focus of this trip is on learning essential mountain skills such as crevasse rescue, ice climbing, roping up on glaciers, and climbing confidently on different terrain. You will stay in the self-catering winter rooms in a small, cosy mountain hut above the Chamonix valley. Along with your guide, you will be cooking your own food on gas stoves, fending for yourselves as the huts are unstaffed during this period.

By the end of the trip, you will feel more confident in the high mountains, having gained self-sufficient skills and experience. Winter mountaineering in Chamonix aims to make you ready to tackle your next high-altitude adventure while introducing you to the Alps in slightly harsher conditions. As it is the beginning of winter, expect the unexpected.

Not sure whether you're ready to tackle our Winter Mountaineering Course in Chamonix? No problem, take our Chamonix winter climbing 'Readiness' test and read through some of our most frequently asked questions.

TAKE THE TEST

Learn more. Download our guide here.

GOT WHAT IT TAKES? Take the readiness test

Ready to embark on your next adventure? Take our quick fitness readiness test to see how prepared you are for an unforgettable holiday!

TAKE THE TEST

Your Winter Mountaineering in Chamonix Starts Here

Who is the Winter Mountaineering Course in Chamonix For?

You will need to come with a high level of fitness and feel comfortable being on your feet with a heavy backpack (5 to 10kg) for 5 to 8 hours per day. We recommend some basic mountain experience before signing up for Chamonix winter climbing, although you do not need to be well-versed in specific techniques — that's what you're here to learn! However, a little mileage in the legs goes a long way in making this trip more manageable.

Plenty of determination is needed to keep you going throughout the tour. While this adventure is open to fairly inexperienced mountaineers, please note that doesn’t mean it’s physically easy.

Not sure whether you're ready? No sweat! Get in touch and we'll be happy to talk it through with you.

TAKE THE TEST

Adventure Overview

Duration
4 Nights
Start location
Chamonix, France
Guide Ratio
1:3
Date(s)
October - November
Ability
Intermediate
Price
From €1.510,00
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Chamonix Winter Climbing Videos

  • Chamonix Winter Alpine Skills

    01:55

    A little taster of a snowy winter adventure.

  • Wild & Remote

    00:22

    You're on your own in the mountains. Learn how to operate in this environment.

  • Meet The Team

    01:48

    Introducing our crack squad of mountain lovers and adventure junkies. We spend most of our days plotting, planning and building some of the very best trips out there for you all to enjoy.

  • What is the Food Like in Alpine Huts?

    3:03

    Charlie and Olly share what to expect from meals in Alpine huts and refuges, from breakfast and communal dinners to dietary requirements and snacks.

  • Best First Summits for Beginners

    1:13

    Charlie and Olly share two of the best mountains in the Alps to start your mountaineering journey: Gran Paradiso in Italy and Triglav in Slovenia.

Equipment Required for Winter Mountaineering in Chamonix

Certain items can be rented from Adventure Base, such as crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness, and trekking poles with snow baskets. You can add these to your cart at checkout. We use the latest kit from Black Diamond and Petzl, meaning you'll be using quality equipment at cheaper prices than if you were to rent from a local shop when you get here. Win! (Note: Your kit might vary slightly from the images below.)

Please note this is a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last-minute equipment on arrival, dependent on the weather and changes in itinerary.

Download the Winter Mountaineering Course in Chamonix kit list for a more detailed overview.

View full kit list

Rent locally

crampons

Crampons

12 point steel mountaineering crampons

Rent locally

harness

Harness

Standard climbing harness

Can be rented

helmet

Helmet

Standard hard plastic climbing specific helmet.

Rent locally

ice-axe

Ice axe

Straight shaft for general mountaineering
trekking-poles

Trekking Poles

Foldable or telescopic poles are best

FULL KIT LIST

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More info

Click the link in the text above to find the full kit list

Brilliant experience from start to finish.

Adventure Base handled the coordination, accommodations, meals, transfers, and execution of the guided trek exceptionally well. A special thank you to our guide, Rosella C., who added real value throughout the journey and dealt with any issues quickly and professionally. Tristan at Adventure Base was excellent with all of the pre-trip planning and logistics, and kudos as well to Madi for reaching out after the trip to gather feedback. Adventure Base took away much of the administrative work and worry, allowing me to simply enjoy the experience. The entire trip felt seamless and extremely well organized. The Dolomites certainly did not disappoint, and sharing the journey with a great group of fellow trekkers made it even better. Highly recommend Adventure Base.

Mike Herzog

4 Incredible Trips with Adventure Base

I've done four trips with these guys and its been incredible, I've climbed Mont Blanc, Hiked the Tour Du Mont Blanc, did four days on the Alta Via 1 and climbed Toubkal in North Africa - all with Adventure Base. Charlie and the team are professional, courteous and just overall great people to book trips through. Theres never been an issue Adventure Base can't fix, they make you feel like there are no silly questions and they've always done everything they can to ensure I've had a great trip. And I always have - every trip I've been on has been incredible, I regularly recommend them to friends, colleagues and family. If I could give them more then five stars I would.

Dave Mac

We didn't want to stop walking!

Haute Route with Adventure Base - we didn't want to stop walking! Iconic trek made special by Adventure Base with lots of trusted support, excellent accommodation and thoughtful additions. Would recommend to anyone who wants to challenge themselves slightly up from the TMB. The clever mapping app showed profiles of each day to help us prep and we felt guided and safe even though we walked alone. Thoroughly enjoyed stays in both refuges and spa hotels to relax! Met lots of people on and off along the route which was very easy to follow. We were lucky with stunning weather but the SUCH varied scenery of each section was breath-taking. If you want to feel guided with help prepping, questions answered and someone always on hand if you need it, trust Adventure Base!

Louise Addis

Incredible Experience!

Just got back from the self-guided Bernese Oberland Traverse in Switzerland and we were blown away! My wife and I have lots of prior hiking experience, but having the logistics of where we were staying and the route mapped out for us saved us a lot of time before the trip! The app they send you with your trip details and the route for every day is easy to navigate, has great offline capabilities, and has everything you need for each day of your trek (including any side adventures). For anything we needed, the team was easily accessible by phone or WhatsApp. All of the accommodations they chose were a 10 out of 10. We made so many memories on this trip without all the headache of managing your own logistics and its all thanks to the great team at Adventure Base!

Bryan Terschan

I was blown away by Adventures Base

I was blown away by Adventures Base attention to detail. Incredible guides and an incredible experience. My 2nd trip and will be booking my next soon. They have some of the best guides ive experienced. Brilliant customer service from beginning to end. A+++++

Pete

They exceeded my expectations!

The 11-day TMB experience was perfect. Our guide, Rob, was incredibly attentive from the very first minute. He was meticulous about every detail and every participant, highly attuned to the group's needs, and possessed a great sense of humor and deep knowledge of the terrain. He ensured an excellent experience. All logistics, mountain huts, and hotels were perfect; I wouldn't change a thing. They exceeded my expectations, and we were even blessed with perfect weather. I couldn't have made a better choice for my TMB trip.

Cacilda Amaral

Rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 300+ reviews on

Trustpilot

FINER DETAILS

YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE

On arrival day you meet with your guides and fellow climbers at the accommodation for a welcome briefing and dinner in the evening. Here you will have an opportunity to ask any last minute questions as well as share your pre-trip excitement with your group.

What's included?

  • 3 days of learning alpine skills
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation in Chamonix
  • 2 nights in a winter room at a mountain hut (conditions dependent)
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner included in the mountain hut
  • Breakfast and welcome dinner included in Chamonix
  • IFMGA Adventure Base guide
  • All road transport within the itinerary
  • Lift tickets (if required)

Optional extras

Enhance your adventure with these additional services.

Please get in touch with our team to discuss optional extras. Get in touch

What's not included?

  • Kit rental (crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness, poles)
  • Airport Transfers
  • Personal insurance
  • Personal snacks and drinks

Adventure like a local

The Adventure Base Difference

Excellent 4.8 From 300+ reviews

  • Born & Bred in the Alps

    With an office at the foot of Mont Blanc in Chamonix, we help you Adventure like a local.

  • Customer Focused

    We don't just want you for one trip, we want you for lots! We work extremely hard to earn that right.

  • Don't take our word for it

    Our clients do the talking. Check out their latest reviews and see what makes their trips so special.

  • Guaranteed Departures

    If you can book it, we'll run it even if it's just for you. You shouldn't have to wait to get excited for your trip.

This trip is running on the following dates

Depart

Wed 11 Nov, 2026

Return

Sun 15 Nov, 2026

Availability

Join waiting list

Depart

Wed 18 Nov, 2026

Return

Sun 22 Nov, 2026

Availability

Join waiting list

Accommodation on This Winter Mountaineering Course in Chamonix

When not in the mountains, we know the importance of having a comfortable base. That's why we've chosen a hotel in Chamonix with super comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere for your first and last night of the trip. But don't let that nice linen and the warm showers win your favour just yet. Wait until you've experienced a good old mountain hut with its basic, yet charming amenities and friendly hosts. We bet you go home missing the huts more!

Bedroom with balcony doors open to snowy mountains

Chamonix

The hotel in Chamonix is an excellent base for our Winter Skills trip. With stunning views of the mountain, it's well placed and just a few minutes walk from Chamonix centre. Rooms are on a twin, triple or quad share basis with en suite bathrooms. Breakfast is included in your stay as well as a welcome dinner on the first night. There is also a bar for the evenings, with some lovely outdoor space to relax in after the climb.

  • Duration

    2 Nights

  • Wifi

    Wifi included

  • Beds

    Shared en suite rooms

  • Food

    Breakfast + Welcome Dinner
Sunrise over a glacier and alpine peaks

Alpine Hut

We'll spend 2 nights staying up in the high Alpine environment conditions dependent. We choose the quieter huts for this time of year where we will cook our own food over gas cookers and be completely self-sufficient. It all adds to a real wild adventure. The sleeping arrangement is in dormitories with blankets provided. Full board is provided in the hut.

  • Duration

    2 Nights

  • Wifi

    Not included

  • Beds

    Dormitory beds

  • Food

    Full Board

Chamonix Ski Touring Course Itinerary

HERE'S YOUR ITINERARY 

While we try and stick to the tried-and-tested itinerary below, the mountain and the weather sometimes have other ideas. We will always remain as flexible as possible, which is why we only work with experienced and knowledgeable guides, to make sure we can change any plans if required.
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Frequently asked questions about this adventure

WAS: What skill level is required?

This course is designed for beginners to intermediate mountaineers. No prior alpine experience is needed, but a basic level of fitness and some rock climbing or hiking experience is recommended.

WAS: What skills should I expect to learn?

Ice Climbing, Crampons Techniques, Ice Axe Techniques, Terrain Navigation, Traversing snowfields and glaciers, Crevasse Rescue (building snow anchors, pulley systems etc).

If there is anything specific you are interested in learning please let us and your guide know so we can make sure to cover it!

WAS: What is the group size?

Group sizes are typically small, with a ratio of 3:1 participants per guide. This ensures personalised instruction and safety.

WAS: What’s it like staying in a winter room?

Staying in a winter room in a mountain refuge in the Alps can be a unique and memorable experience. Refuges in the Alps are typically basic and functional, providing shelter and a place to sleep for climbers and hikers who are exploring the mountains.

A winter room in a refuge will generally be a shared dormitory-style accommodation, with bunk beds and simple amenities such as blankets and pillows. Some refuges may offer additional facilities such as a communal dining room, cooking facilities, and a warm common room, while others may have more basic facilities.

In the winter months, conditions in the mountains can be harsh, with snow and cold temperatures, so it’s important to be well-prepared for your stay in a winter room. You should bring warm and weather-appropriate clothing, as well as a sleeping bag and other personal gear, as facilities in the refuge may be limited.

WAS: Is there WiFi in the mountain huts?

No. All mountain huts are fairly basic and do not provide WiFi. Some huts will have phone signal but we cannot guarantee this will work at all times.

WAS: Can I store my belongings with Adventure Base?

Yes. For the duration of your trip you are able to store your belongings in your accommodation in Chamonix. Please note rooms are usually allocated on a twin share basis, in most cases sharing with others from your course. Please get in touch if you’d like a single supplement.

WAS: What equipment do I need to bring?

Certain items can be rented from Adventure Base such as crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness, and trekking poles with snow baskets (you are able to add these to your cart at checkout). We use the latest kit from Black Diamond and Petzl, meaning you’ll be using quality equipment at cheaper prices than if you were to rent from a local shop when you get here. Win! Please see here for the full packing list.

WAS: What is the weather like in Chamonix in October and November?

Weather in the Alps can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from warm days to freezing conditions at higher altitudes. Always be prepared for changing conditions and early season snow fall. Safety is our top priority.

WAS: What happens if the weather is bad?

If the weather is too severe, we’ll adjust the itinerary or offer alternative indoor training sessions. We’ll keep you informed and ensure a rewarding experience.

WAS: What insurance do I need?

Let’s face it, these types of trips don’t come risk free. We’re putting ourselves in amazing environments but also environments that carry an element of risk with them. In order to protect yourself adequately you will need a specialist travel insurance that caters for the types of activities you will be undertaking. It is a condition of our agreement that you are covered by adequate travel insurance for your arrangements. Click here to understand which one is for you.

WAS: Can I change my trip dates?

You can change your trip dates subject to availability and a €100 admin fee. Please contact us if you would like to explore changing your dates.

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Meet your guides for this adventure

PABLO-2

Pablo

IFMGA Guide

Pablo is originally from a small mountain village in Spain and came to Chamonix with only one dream to become a mountain guide. Based in Chamonix since 2013, Pablo made the Alps his playground as a guide and as an alpinist and has climbed many of the classic alpine routes. He combines mountain guiding with helicopter rescue work in Spain during the off seasons.
MIHA-2

Miha

IFMGA Guide

Miha is an IFMGA guide from Slovenia based between the beautiful Julian Alps and Chamonix. He has been climbing for over 20 years all over the world, including expeditions to Nepal, Tibet, India, Pakistan, USA, Mexico and Peru. He summited an 8000er on his first expedition to the Himalaya, did a first ascent on the previously unclimbed Lasher peak in the Himalaya and climbed El Capitan and many routes over the Alps.
Tom-Grant-Profile-

Tom

IFMGA Guide

Tom was born in the US then moved to the UK aged 11 before quickly pursuing his passions in the mountains and reaching the top level he is at today. Tom has made the French Alpine town of Chamonix his home since 2009 and is vastly experienced in all mountain disciplines having completed some incredible first ski descents and countless mountaineering and rock climbing routes.
Roger-Lopez

Roger

IFMGA Guide

Roger has spent over 15 years guiding around the world. He is a Guide instructor at the Spanish School of Guides and is fascinated by discovering mountains with clients. Roger has a big passion about showing people his beloved mountains and sharing climbs and descents with skis.

Are you Ready?

This adventure is rated Intermediate on our difficulty scale and is best suited to for those with some prior experience. We recommend choosing an adventure that matches your fitness, experience and comfort level.

  • You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing, and are keen to build on that
  • You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more challenging environments
  • Some basic skills
  • Moderate fitness

This trip is at this level

Sunrise over a glacier and alpine peaks

READY TO LEARN SOME SKILLS?

We hope you've found all the information you need above, but if not don't hesitate to get in touch. If you're ready to book, follow the link below.

Book Now From €1.510,00 Make an enquiry