Learn to Navigate Winter Terrain with Edgeworks

Winter in the Pacific Northwest is renowned for its stunning snow-covered peaks and thrilling outdoor adventures. However, navigating these snowy terrains requires specialized knowledge and skills to ensure your safety. At Edgeworks, we offer AIARE (American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) avalanche safety courses to help you explore the backcountry confidently and securely. Taught by local experts, our courses are designed to prepare you for winter adventures with comprehensive avalanche training.

Why Enroll in Our AIARE Avalanche Safety Courses?

Avalanches are a serious risk in the backcountry, making avalanche safety education crucial. AIARE courses are recognized nationwide for their thorough approach, teaching you essential skills to handle avalanche risks effectively. With our local instructors, you’ll benefit from their in-depth understanding of the Pacific Northwest’s unique terrain and snow conditions.

2024/25 Course Offerings:

AIARE Level 1: Introduction to Avalanche Safety
Perfect for beginners, this course covers the basics of avalanche science, terrain assessment, and rescue techniques.

AIARE Level 2: Intermediate Avalanche Safety
For those with some experience, this course delves deeper into snowpack analysis, advanced terrain evaluation, and decision-making strategies.

AIARE Rescue Course: Practical Avalanche Rescue Skills
Focuses on hands-on rescue practice to enhance your ability to respond effectively to avalanche emergencies.

Benefits of Our AIARE Avalanche Courses

1. Comprehensive Avalanche Education:

• Learn about avalanche science, including snowpack dynamics and contributing factors.
• Study real avalanche incidents to understand common mistakes and effective prevention strategies.

2. Terrain Assessment Skills:

• Develop expertise in evaluating avalanche terrain and identifying high-risk areas.
• Utilize tools like avalanche forecasts and maps for informed route planning.

3. Rescue Techniques Training:

• Acquire critical skills in beacon use, probing, and shoveling.
• Engage in realistic rescue scenarios to build confidence and efficiency in emergencies.

4. Effective Decision-Making:

• Learn strategies for assessing risk and making safe decisions in the backcountry.
• Improve your ability to manage group dynamics and communication in challenging conditions.

Why Choose Edgeworks for AIARE Training?

At Edgeworks, our commitment is to deliver top-quality avalanche education to enhance your winter adventures. Our AIARE courses are led by local instructors with extensive knowledge of the Pacific Northwest’s terrain and snow conditions. This local expertise, combined with small class sizes, ensures personalized attention and a supportive learning environment.

Ready to Enhance Your Winter Skills?

Prepare for your backcountry adventures by enrolling in an AIARE avalanche safety course with Edgeworks today. Our expert-led courses will equip you with the skills and confidence needed to navigate snowy landscapes securely.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and enjoy the winter wonderland with Edgeworks.
SIGN UP NOW to secure your spot! 

Guided Summit Climbs in the North Cascades with Edgeworks Guiding

The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most stunning peaks, each holding deep significance in both natural beauty and cultural heritage. At Edgeworks, we’re passionate about helping climbers of all levels respectfully explore the incredible landscapes of the North Cascades. Whether you’re aiming to conquer your first major climb or looking to add another summit to your list, our professionally trained and certified guides are here to support you every step of the way.

MOUNT BAKER: Your Gateway to the Alpine World

Known as Koma Kulshan to the Lummi Nation, Mt. Baker is one of Washington’s most popular volcanoes and the perfect introduction to the world of glacier climbing. Standing at 10,781 feet, Baker offers a relatively non-technical climb with breathtaking views of the surrounding North Cascades and beyond. With its manageable slopes and stunning vistas, Mt. Baker is an excellent choice for beginners looking to step into the world of alpine climbing.

ELDORADO PEAK: The Queen of the North Cascades

Eldorado Peak, though not as widely recognized by a Native American name, is a significant part of the North Cascades’ cultural landscape. Rising to 8,868 feet, its iconic knife-edge ridge provides an exciting challenge for climbers with previous mountaineering experience. The ascent to Eldorado’s summit is an adventure in itself, featuring a mix of steep trails, glacier travel, and an exciting final ridge climb that will test your balance and nerves. This climb is ideal for those with prior mountaineering experience who are looking to challenge themselves on one of the most beautiful peaks in the range.

GLACIER PEAK: The Ultimate Wilderness Experience

Known as Tda-ko-buh-ba by the Sauk-Suiattle Tribe, Glacier Peak is one of Washington’s most remote and least climbed volcanoes, offering a true wilderness experience. Standing at 10,541 feet, it is the fourth-highest peak in the state, surrounded by miles of pristine wilderness. The approach to Glacier Peak involves a 14 mile trek through dense forests and across alpine meadows, offering an immersive experience in the North Cascades. The climb itself is moderate, but the remote location and lengthy approach make it a rewarding challenge for those seeking solitude and adventure.

FORBIDDEN PEAK: A Technical Climber’s Dream

While Forbidden Peak does not have a widely recognized Native American name, it remains one of the most revered summits in the North Cascades. Standing at 8,815 feet, this peak offers a classic alpine climb with exposed ridges and steep snowfields, making it a perfect challenge for experienced climbers. The West Ridge route, often listed among the “50 Classic Climbs of North America,” is especially renowned. For those looking to push their limits in a dramatic and breathtaking setting, Forbidden Peak is an unforgettable experience.

MOUNT SHUKSAN: The Iconic North Cascades Summit

Mt. Shuksan, known as Šqsán in the Nooksack language, is one of the most iconic peaks in the North Cascades, and no list of North Cascades summits would be complete without it. Known for its striking appearance and complex terrain, Mt. Shuksan is one of the most photographed peaks in North America. The summit, at 9,131 feet, is accessible via several routes, with the Sulphide Glacier route being the most popular. This climb offers a mix of glacier travel and rock scrambling, culminating in a spectacular summit with unparalleled views of Mt. Baker and the surrounding peaks.

Why Choose Edgeworks Guiding for Your Summit Adventure?

Our guides are passionate about sharing their love for the mountains with others, and as a company, we are equally dedicated to supporting our guides through the journey. We believe in providing a supportive and educational environment where climbers of all levels can thrive. Our guided summit programs are more than just climbs; they’re opportunities to build your skills, connect with nature, and challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible.

Whether you’re new to mountaineering or an experienced climber looking to tackle a new peak, Edgeworks offers a range of summit adventures tailored to your goals and experience level. Join us for a journey to the top, and discover the excitement of reaching new heights in the Pacific Northwest.

Ready to Climb in Washington? Explore our guided summit programs and start planning your next adventure with Edgeworks today! Contact us: guiding@edgeworksclimbing.com

YOUR GUIDE TO AIARE AVALANCHE COURSES

Winter, with its pristine snow-covered landscapes, invites adventure enthusiasts to explore the great outdoors. However, the thrill of backcountry touring, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing comes with its own set of challenges, chief among them being avalanches. Understanding the nuances of avalanches and the skill of navigating snowy landscapes is essential for any winter explorer. 

At Edgeworks, we understand the allure of untouched snow and wanting to recreate responsibly. That’s why we’ve partnered with AIARE (American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) to provide avalanche education courses. AIARE is the national standard in avalanche education with a mission to “save lives through education” at all experience levels.  Our courses are tailored to empower new and experienced mountain travelers with the knowledge and skills needed to more confidently travel in avalanche-prone areas.

WHY CHOOSE EDGEWORKS AIARE AVALANCHE EDUCATION COURSES?

1. Expert Guidance

Our avalanche education courses are led by AIARE certified instructors and ski guides with experience guiding around the world, from the North Cascades to Norway. Not only do they provide invaluable insights into avalanches and decision-making, they’ll also show you how to find good snow, keep warm in the coldest conditions, and adjust your plan for the day’s conditions,ensuring you are well-equipped for your winter adventures. 

2. Local Knowledge

Edgeworks guides are local to the Pacific Northwest and have been skiing and climbing in the Cascades for over 30 years. We know these mountains deeply and look forward to sharing our understanding of these places with you. 

3. Community Connection

Participating in an Edgeworks AIARE course, you have an instant community of folks who share your passion for winter adventures. By learning together, you also contribute to a larger culture of awareness and preparedness within the outdoor community, enhancing safety for everyone. Students in our courses often continue to go to the mountains together, long after the course has ended.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF AIARE AVALANCHE EDUCATION

AIARE courses have been developed through decades of research and professional experience. Since 1998, AIARE has worked with guides, ski patrollers, highway departments, and the public to produce courses that are up-to-date, engaging, and offer practical tools for everyone.

1. Make Better Decisions

Edgeworks’ AIARE courses equip you with tangible tools to thoughtfully prepare for winter trips in the mountains. From assessing avalanche terrain to communicating with your friends, our courses can increase your confidence in yourself, your group and your adventures while managing potential risks.

2. Hands-on Training

We believe in learning through practical experience. All of our courses include field sessions where you apply your knowledge in and around real avalanche terrain. We’ll practice a range of avalanche rescue scenarios for small groups, identify actual avalanche paths, and communicate our assessment of current conditions. These sessions will further your skills and boost your confidence when facing challenging winter conditions. 

3. Comprehensive Learning

Edgeworks’ courses cover a wide range of topics, from trip planning, to route finding, snow layers, and avalanche rescue techniques. Our curriculum is designed to provide a holistic understanding of avalanches, planning and communication tools for your group, helping you to make better decisions before and during your trip. We also assist in developing a plan for continuing your education after the course has ended.

AIARE 1 – The foundation of avalanche education. Learn about avalanche forecasts, terrain, and the basics of rescue. Spend two days in the mountains putting your knowledge to use in real terrain.

AIARE 2 – Take your skills to the next level. Learn more about the snowpack, avalanche forecasting, travel techniques, and get mentored practice while spending three days in the mountains together.

AIARE Rescue – A one day course for practicing the skills needed for an avalanche rescue including using a beacon, effective digging strategies, group management, and what to do after an avalanche. Take it as a stand-alone, refresher, or with your friends to feel more confident with your touring partners.

Winter beckons with its endless opportunities for adventure, and Edgeworks AIARE Avalanche Education Courses provide you with the expertise needed to explore with more confidence. Our expert instructors, comprehensive curriculum, hands-on training, and community-oriented approach make our courses the ideal choice for anyone seeking to learn the art of backcountry exploration.

Are you ready to elevate your winter adventures? Enroll in Edgeworks AIARE Avalanche Education Courses today and embark on a journey in the heart of winter’s wonderland. 

 Adventure with confidence! Contact us now to start your journey.

Rent the gear needed for your next outdoor climbing adventure!

Check out our ALL NEW outdoor gear rental program, including:

• Climbing Shoes
• Crash Pads
• Climbing Helmets (adult + youth)

For more details, stop by the front desk or give us a call.

• Bellevue: (425) 644-2445
• Seattle: (206) 781-9828
• Tacoma: (253) 564-4899

An open letter to the Edgeworks Community

written by: Hal Warren

To my Edgeworks family,

In light of the pandemic that we all have been affected by, I would like to speak as an athlete whose lifestyle is inherently intertwined with training at the gym and getting outside to climb. But most importantly, I would like to speak as a member of the Edgeworks community. A community that has practically raised me since I was 11 years old.

Things are difficult. And for most of my life I have dealt with difficult things by going climbing. Over the years, the sport became an outlet like no other, a perfect mindfulness practice, and a place where I could freely and unapologetically express my personality. Edgeworks, alongside the local climbing areas in WA, became my sanction. In the same way Washington’s wild beauty serves many members at Edgeworks, I felt the happiest when out in the forest climbing.

When my school shut down and Edgeworks didn’t, my first response was psych that I now had 30 extra hours in my week to be at the climbing gym. Then Edgeworks closed. And I got ecstatic that I would finally have time to put down some of my sport projects at exit 32 and to finally send my projects in Index. With that excitement for all the climbing I was about to do came the statewide “Stay Home Stay Safe” initiative by Gov. Inslee, an act to keep Washingtonians safe and make sure those who need the resources we do have can receive the care they need.

At first, I was confused and had trouble wrapping my head around the fact that I was going to have to spend the near future at home. Not in the climbing gym, not at the crag, and not with my people. Confused about why my happy place in the forest was suddenly not where I was supposed to be and why it would have any effect on others if I just made my little escape to the rocks. My privilege slapped me across the face. I was worried about my little escape to the forest more than I was worried about people’s family members dying. And how could I not? I was only acting out of instinct and doing what I’ve always done. I just wanted to climb. As climbers, smart Washingtonians, and humans, we have an obligation. An obligation to help our climbing, state, and human communities stay safe. We can’t let our personal desires get in the way of doing what is right.

With the closures of areas like Bishop and Moab, I started to think about our own areas here in Washington that need protection. If we flood the crags and boulder field parking areas at first chance once they reopen, we are at risk of access becoming limited, restricted all together and/or worst case, we risk our reputation as climbers. We must think holistically and proactively as to how we are going to continue to help our own community and at risk communities with limited resources. We must be aware of the impact our recreation and sport has on smaller communities and we must take initiative to ensure that we as climbers are helping, not making things harder.

I am committed myself and encourage you as a community to think about how your actions as climbers and outdoor enthusiasts will affect the places you love. Before you launch out of the house at first knowledge that areas are opened again, reflect on your impact and how you will reduce it. This is a defining moment for us as climbers to do a small bit of good in the world. And the world needs as much good as it can get.

With love,
Hal Warren
Team Edgeworks coach and athlete

Trip Report: Mt. Rainier | July 2018

by Andrew Powell

On July 15, 2018, Edgeworks’ head guide, Tod Bloxham, 4 guests, and I gathered at the gym to prep gear and drive out to the White River Ranger Station to begin our journey up Mt. Rainier.

Day 1
The forecast was good, if a bit too hot. We knew the sky would be clear and that there would be a lot of sunscreen in the coming 4 days. What we didn’t know, is that the standard Emmons-Winthrop route was rapidly falling apart.

The first day was an approach hike into Glacier Basin. The views of the route and mountain on the way to this camp are phenomenal and it serves as a means to ease into the 10’000ft gain of our trip. We enjoyed each-others company, told stories, and spent the evening generally relaxing and appreciating the views.

Day 2
Day two was allocated for snow skills training and the push to Camp Schurman. After a hearty breakfast and a casual start, we moved up the mountain and dialed in some essential climbing skills, like self-arrest and efficiency in snow travel.

As we continued up the mountain, we began to receive reports from other groups who were on their way out of hazardous conditions on the route, including collapsing snow bridges and at least one crevasse fall that required climber extraction. This news was a bit ominous, but Tod and I remained optimistic. Upon reaching Camp Schurman, the climbing rangers on sight gave us a run down on conditions. The standard route was no good and success would require a much more challenging and steeper route.

Day 3
Due to the daytime heat, we opted to rest and use the day to acclimate before having an early dinner and setting out for a 9pm start toward our objective. This allowed everyone to recuperate their energy reserves, and to mentally prepare for the big day. It also gave us the best possible snow conditions for the climb and descent of Mt. Rainier. We were roped up and ready to climb by 8:40pm and climbed through the night.

Day 4 – The Climb
We started out onto the Emmons Glacier via the standard bridge crossing out of camp. This was straight forward and the crossing over to “The Corridor” at 10,200’ was simple. This is where the reports of hazardous conditions and weak bridges were coming from. The climbing rangers advised us that staying climbers right in the more exposed terrain was the best path, as opposed to the typical “up the middle” path.

Part way up The Corridor, I checked my altimeter and realized that we were going to make it. The team had ample time to rest and everyone was climbing strong. We were moving up the mountain faster than expected while maintaining a sustainable pace.

At the top of The Corridor, the standard route leads climbers right to the “The Alpine Meadow”. The heat of the previous two weeks had obliterated this path, and it was in a right state. The alternate was to head climbers left into a large, steep bowl. This proved straightforward, but steep and icy. The cramponing was excellent, but the grade was unrelenting. For hours, we toiled upward; traversing and climbing slopes that make the standard route look easy. We trended far right at the top of the bowl to cross the final bergschrund, and reached the summit at about 5:30am.

We had climbed through the night, seeing both an amazing sunset and a glorious sunrise on route. The descent took us a fair amount of time, as the slopes were so steep. After some food, rest and packing up camp, we headed out to the parking lot and the Edgeworks van.

The trip was a great success and we are super excited for next season!

Springtime at Vantage

with Andrew Powell

Spring has arrived!

Or at least it has hinted at its arrival which makes this the perfect season for climbing at Vantage.

On March 26th, Andrew lead our first outdoor rock climbing trip of the season.

The destination: the freestanding basalt columns of Frenchman Coulee (also known as Vantage)
The goal: to tune-up their skills on crack climbs and trad routes and also have a good time.
The routes: ‘Party in your Pants (5.8 trad)’, ‘Easy Off (5.10c sport)’; then ‘Pony Keg (5.9 trad)’, ‘Crossing the Threshold (5.8 trad)’, and finally ‘Air Guitar (5.10a trad)’.
The outcome: A great day on dry rock with awesome people – success!

If you’re looking to get outside for the first time this season, our group climbing trips are the perfect introduction to climbing at Vantage, North Bend, Mt. Erie, and Smith Rock.

Upcoming Edgeworks Group Climbing Trips:

 –  Trad Lead & Multi-Pitch: April 27th-28th, 2018
 –  Vantage Crag Day: May 25th, 2018

Regardless of your experience level, our guides and instructors are available to assist with expertise and knowledge – from navigating climbing areas and finding the right routes for you to climb, to offering that additional level of confidence to help take your outdoor sport, trad, or alpine climbing to the next level.

Our personal guiding options can open the door to new adventures and new places including Leavenworth, Darrington, Morningstar Peak, Castle Rock, Smith Rock, Boston Basin, Forbidden Peak, Glacier Peak, Mt. Baker, Mt. Shuksan, Terror Basin and the North Cascades.

Contact Andrew for more details: programs@edgeworksclimbing.com

Climbing the Triple Couloirs on Dragontail

by Collin Jenkins

Earlier this month, I went out with fellow Edgeworks staffer, Andrew Powell, and climbed the Triple Couloirs on Dragontail Peak (early May 2017).  This route has intimidated me for over a year since it first got on my radar.  After being turned back once with a different partner due to avalanche concerns, Andrew and I went back with a 24 hour window.

At 3am, the route started off unexpectedly stout with a small bergschrund crossing and pitch of solid WI3 ice and I thought, “There’s no way I can finish this.” But in the spirit of adventure and “try hard” I took off on the first couloir.  In no time, my blood was up and we were in a rhythm. We encountered a little scary mixed climbing and temperatures much lower than we were expecting, but not stopping keeps you warm! We caught a sunny break on the summit ridge, bagged the summit and headed down Asgard Pass.

Twenty hours, 14,000ft of elevation change, and around 20 miles after we set out, we completed our car-to-car ascent.

This route revealed to me that the “in-a-day” mentality I’ve observed in so many Pacific Northwest Alpinists I respect isn’t as crazy–​or demanding of superhuman endurance–as I thought.  Believing in yourself, trusting your partner, and simply not giving up can go a long way.  Endless calories and good weather help too!