COMMUNITY
EDUCATION
CONSERVATION & STEWARDSHIP
ADVENTURE
FALL ‘26 & WINTER ’27
COURSE CATALOG
P.C. Ashley Kramer, TCS Glacier Travel School, 2026
FALL '26/WINTER '27
A MESSAGE FROM YOUR MEMEBERSHIP SERVICE MANAGER There’s a lot to look forward to as we head into another fall and winter in Colorado. A new season is a great opportunity to try something different, build a skill you’ve been meaning to learn, or get more comfortable with the activities you already enjoy. CMC’s courses cover a wide range of skills and experience levels, from getting started with the basics to building the knowledge and experience needed for more advanced adventures. As the seasons change, you’ll find opportunities to learn about winter travel, avalanche safety, climbing, navigation, wilderness medicine, and more. Whatever you’re hoping to learn, our courses are designed to give you practical experience and the knowledge to make good decisions in the outdoors. And while learning the skills is a big part of it, so is the experience of learning alongside other people. CMC courses bring together people with different experience levels, interests, and goals, all looking to learn something new or build on the skills they already have. It’s a chance to learn from instructors, learn from each other, and gain practical experience you can take with you into your own adventures. The more we learn, the more prepared we are to enjoy the outdoors and make good decisions along the way. We hope this catalog gives you a few new skills to build, places to explore, and reasons to get outside this season.
KELSIE TURNER
Membership Services Manager
2025 IMPACT
BY THE NUMBERS MEMBERSHIP & ADULT PROGRAMS
5,683
average number of members
Adult Programs 2025 Snapshot
176 & 977 Courses
1,322
new members
45% 94% 1st year retention
2+ year retention
Course Participants
1,683 & 9,453 Trips
Trip Participants
21,396 from 2,339 Volunteer Hours
$35,000
WFA Scholarships Awarded
Events & Activites
to 125 Leaders & Instructors
CONSERVATION/STEWARDSHIP & YOUTH PROGRAMS
Conservation & Stewardship
Youth Programs
2025 Snapshot
2025 Snapshot
1,840+
1,715
Stewardship Trail Crews
Camps, Courses, Afterschool & Internship
400+
2,524
Hours on 3 USFS system trails
Hours on 2 USFS system trails
Unique Youth Participants
Unique Youth Participants
Volunteers Stewardship Crews
360
Hours in the field 1 CMC Snow Ranger
3
Backcountry ski tour patrols
6,313
FY25 Total Youth Participants
46
Unique schools Fall ‘24 - Spring ‘25
With USFS Rangers/SJMA
3
Snowmobile patrol days With USFS Rangers
36
Unique schools FY25
FALL '26/WINTER '27
QUICK GUIDE TO COURSES
Welcome, friend! You're about to embark on an adventure with Colorado Mountain Club, how exciting! We know there's a lot to take in, but don't you worry, we've got you covered. Before you dive into the course catalog, stop by this handy-dandy help page. We're here to guide you every step of the way!
FIND COURSES BY ACTIVITY
BY REGION
Where to Start
Snow/Ice Climbing
NORTHERN COLORADO
Avalanche Education
Snow Sports
BOULDER
Hiking & Mountaineering
Wilderness Medicine
DENVER
Indoor Climbing
PIKES PEAK
Youth Programs
WESTERN SLOPE
Navigation
LEGEND Course is free of cost for all who choose to participate. Course requires that you have completed other CMC courses before you are able to register. Experience may be considered in lieu of prerequisites and that must be discussed with the course director. Learn more here. Course has online components including online lectures, gear talks, and post course quizzes. Learn more here.
Course has offerings across the state at different times of the year. If you see it click the icon to be taken back to this page to select your region. COURSE DIFFICULTY
Easy
LENGTH
3 Days
There are 4 levels course difficulty (easy, moderate, difficult, and challenging) with the level being determined by the course instructor. Every course has a unique rating. Courses vary in length across the club. This number refers to the number of days the course meeting, both in person and virtually.
FAQ’s
DO YOU NEED TO JOIN THE CLUB TO TAKE PART IN OUR COURSES?
Not at all! We welcome everyone to learn with us. However, our club members do get some pretty sweet discounts on our courses. If you want to just test us out, you can create a free Guest Account that gives you access to 2 activities before we ask you to become a member. WHAT'S THE DEAL WITH THESE BADGES?
Our courses come with badges to celebrate your achievements and mark your progress. They're a great way to show off your skills and can also guide you towards more advanced courses. CAN I GET A REFUND FOR A COURSE?
Before you sign up for a course, make sure to check out our Cancellation and Refund Policy. WHAT IF A COURSE ISN'T WHAT I EXPECTED?
Talk with you instructor and see if they can help or possibly RECOMMEND another course within the club that fits your needs and expectations better. HOW WILL I KNOW WHICH COURSE SUITS ME BEST?
Every course comes with a difficulty rating to help you find the best fit. If you're not sure, feel free to contact the course director for guidance. DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE AND CUSTOM VERSION OF CLASSES?
Yes! we can work with individuals and organizations on certain topics to create custom programming. Please reach out to our education team and learn more about these offerings by clicking here. Or if you’re a school looking for programming click here. WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Don't hesitate to reach out! You can start by contacting the course contact on the page. If you still need help, our friendly team at the CMC office is just a call or email away. You can reach us at office@cmc.org or (303) 279-3080 ext. #3. Also, check out our member resources page for more help!
FALL '26/WINTER '27
WHERE TO START
We understand that it can be intimidating to get into many outdoor sports, and that is exactly what Colorado Mountain Club us here for! From the uninitiated to the expert, there is a place for everyone here. CMC has several foundational courses that are usually the perquisites for moving through our programming. KNOT TYING SCHOOL Learn the essential knots for most situations you might encounter in the outdoors. We will cover a selection of knots specific to climbing and mountaineering, and other activities DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
2 Days
BASIC ROCK CLIMBING The best class to start with! It is a prerequisite for all the rock, snow, and ice climbing classes. Upon completion of this class you’ll be able to climb indoors at any rock climbing gym. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 Day
WILDERNESS FIRST AID (WFA) 2 day in person 16 hour training that covers environmental, medical, and traumatic injuries with a focus on inclusive care and rescue, patient, and bystander mental health. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Moderate
2 Days
WILDERNESS TREKKING SCHOOL (WTS) Our largest and most comprehensive hiking course, offering hands-on training in skills, safety, and confidence while building community with adventurers of all experience levels. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
6 Weeks
Contact: Sarah Thompson Registration Opens: TBA Start Date: TBA LEARN MORE
Contact: Jane McManus Registration Opens: Multiple Start Date: Multiple LEARN MORE
Contact: Ashley Kramer Registration Opens: Multiple Start Date: Multiple LEARN MORE
Contact: Norm Arlt Registration Opens: Spring/Fall Start Date: Spring/Fall LEARN MORE
HIKING SAFETY SEMINAR Contact: Art Hogling A one-evening seminar that teaches you how to prepare for Colorado's unique backcountry. From lightning to animals, so you Registration Opens: TBA and your group can enjoy the mountains safely and confidently. Start Date: TBA DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 Day
BASIC SNOWSHOE SCHOOL A free, one-day class near Denver with equipment supplied. Learn about snowshoe selection and fit, prepping for a trip, trail techniques, breaking trail, and fall recovery. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 Day
DAY HIKER SCHOOL (DHS) The school is intended for ALL skill levels, from new hikers to experienced hikers who wish to brush up on their skill set. Combining online classes with in-person field days. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
Flexible
AVALANCHE AWARE ONLINE COURSE This course teaches you the basics of recognizing avalanche terrain and how to minimize your risk. This online course is free and available year-round. Find out more on page 8. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 Day
LEARN MORE
Contact: Wayne Howell Registration Opens: Dec. 20th, 2026 Start Date: Multiple LEARN MORE
Contact: Russell Peterson Registration Opens: Rolling Start Date: Rolling LEARN MORE
Contact: Keith Stinebaugh Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 Start Date: Rolling LEARN MORE
FALL '26/WINTER '27
AVALANCHE EDUCATION
Avalanche education is a must for anyone who engages in winter activities in the backcountry, including backcountry skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, climbing and backpacking. CMC classes are a great way to do it. The club offers AIARE courses throughout the winter and spring seasons, as well as Avalanche Terrain Awareness courses.
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Starting from Basic to Pro - find the right course for you!
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AVALANCHE AWARE ONLINE COURSE An accessible starting point for anyone heading into snowcovered mountains. This course has been developed by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) and is recommended for all members of the CMC. It is an online self-paced course. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 Day
AVALANCHE TERRAIN AVOIDANCE HYBRID COURSE This hybrid course builds on the Avalanche Aware course with a classroom session focused on review and avalanche planning tools, followed by a field day to practice and apply the skills you’ve learned. You’ll develop practical trip-planning skills, review case studies, and learn to use slope meters in the field to identify avalanche terrain and assess slope angles. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
2 Days
AIARE LEVEL 1 This 24-hour course is an introduction to managing avalanche hazard. You’ll learn to use a repeatable process to manage your risk and learn from experiences in the backcountry. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Moderate
3 Days
Contact: Keith Stinebaugh Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 Start Date: Rolling LEARN MORE
Contact: Keith Stinebaugh Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 Start Date: Rolling
LEARN MORE
Contact: Ashley Kramer Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 Start Date: Multiple
LEARN MORE
AIARE AVALANCHE RESCUE This one-day (8-hour) course is intended to be retaken on a regular basis in order to keep abreast of best practices in rescue techniques and gear.
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DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Moderate
1 Days
AIARE LEVEL 1 REFRESHER The AIARE 1 Refresher is a one-day, field-based course structured around the AIARE Decision-Making Framework. Students plan and lead a backcountry tour under the guidance of a certified AIARE Instructor, applying each element of the framework in real terrain and conditions. DIFFICULTY
Challenging
Contact: Ashley Kramer Registration Opens: Oct 1, 2026 Start Date: Dec 11 & Jan 8, 2027 LEARN MORE
Contact: Ashley Kramer Registration Opens: Oct 1, 2026 Start Date: Dec 6, 2026
LENGTH
1 Day
AIARE LEVEL 2 This course builds on your experience from AIARE 1. You will focus the repeatable process you learned in an AIARE 1, to new situations and to self-direct your learning after the course. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Challenging
5 Days
Contact: Ashley Kramer Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 Start Date: April 9, 2027 LEARN MORE
FALL '26/WINTER '27
HIKING & MOUNTAINEERING
Avalanche education is a must for anyone who engages in winter activities in the backcountry, including backcountry skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, climbing and backpacking. CMC classes are a great way to do it. The club offers AIARE courses throughout the winter and spring seasons, as well as Avalanche Terrain Awareness courses. DAY HIKER SCHOOL (DHS) The school is intended for ALL skill levels, from new hikers to experienced hikers who wish to brush up on their skill set. Combining online classes with in-person field days. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
Flexible
KNOT TYING SCHOOL Learn the essential knots for most situations you might encounter in the outdoors. We will cover a selection of knots specific to climbing and mountaineering, and other activities DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
2 Days
WINTER CAMPING SCHOOL A course for those who want to enjoy the winter, snow and moonlight in comfort. The goal is to understand the equipment and techniques to keep warm in the cold on an overnight stay. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Moderate
9 days
In Winter Camping School, students have the opportunity to learn and practice winter camping techniques and skills in a non-competitive, non-confrontational setting. Winter Camping School is a great place to make new friends and open up a new season of activity. KIM THORNBERRY
Member since 2013
Contact: Russell Peterson Registration Opens: Rolling Start Date: Rolling LEARN MORE
Contact: Sarah Thompson Registration Opens: TBA Start Date: November 12, 2026 LEARN MORE
Contact: Kim Thornberry Registration Opens: Nov. 1st, 2026 Start Date: Jan. 27th, 2027 LEARN MORE
ALPINE CLIMBING SCHOOL Over the course of several months, you will learn navigation, trip planning, basic rock climbing, rope work, and snow travel techniques through a mix of classroom lectures and field days.
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DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Challenging
2 months
Contact: Sheryl Lampert Registration Opens: TBA Start Date: March 3, 2027 LEARN MORE
ALPINE CLIMBING SCHOOL TEAM TRACK: COURSE COMPONENTS
ADVANCED ALPINE CLIMBING SCHOOL - ICE Focus on alpine-ice techniques through three days of field instruction plus a culminating module climb, aimed at preparing students to tackle alpine ice routes. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Challenging
4 days
GLACIER TRAVEL MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL This course is for those who are interested in learning and practicing the glacier travel and alpine skills that are needed to safely climb and enjoy glaciated mountains. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Challenging
3 months
Contact: Sheryl Lampert Registration Opens: TBA Start Date: TBA LEARN MORE
Contact: Jenn Bealer Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 Start Date: Jan. 6th, 2027 LEARN MORE
FALL '26/WINTER '27
NAVIGATION
Hey there, adventurer! Ready to explore the great outdoors? Whether you're in your backyard or the backcountry, knowing your way around is key! Our Basic and Advanced Navigation and GPS courses are here to help you master the map. We can't wait for you to join us! BASIC NAVIGATION Knowing where you are and where you're heading is essential for safe travel in the backcountry. Our Basic Navigation and GPS courses will teach you find your way. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
Multiple
LEARN MORE
ADVANCED NAVIGATION Knowing where you are and where you're heading is essential for safe travel in the backcountry. Our Advanced Navigation course will expand on your skills from the basic course. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
Multiple
Contact: Mark Frymier Registration Opens: Rolling Start Date: Rolling
Contact: Mark Frymier Registration Opens: Rolling Start Date: Rolling LEARN MORE
Colorado is known for incredible mountains and the backcountry adventures they provide, but what happens when crowds grow, and worse, show up unprepared? CMC Snow Rangers program help keep our winter backcountry safe and accessible. From trailheads to restrooms, their behind-the-scenes work supports responsible recreation. Learn more about their work in our blog From Trailheads to Toilets. BRIAN BERGELER Member since 2023
FALL '26/WINTER '27
SNOW & ICE CLIMBING
Beginners can start with our Introduction or Basic Level classes without any prerequisites. For those with more experience, there is a waiver process that can permit a climber to jump into the Intermediate or Advanced classes.
BASIC ICE CLIMBING In one evening and one field day on ice, this course will introduce novice or experienced rock climbers to the basics of ice climbing. Focusing on equipment, safety, and technique. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
2 days
MIXED ICE CLIMBING You’ll learn movement and techniques for mixed climbing as well as route selection, grading systems, hazard evaluation and safety systems. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Moderate
5 days
INTERMEDIATE ICE CLIMBING This class is for climbers who want to gain skills needed to go on their own top-rope ice climbing adventures. You'll learn anchoring, rigging, and refine your climbing technique. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Challenging
4 days
Contact: Matt Biscan Registration Opens: Oct 1, 2026 Start Date: January 5, 2027 LEARN MORE
Contact: Scott Reed Registration Opens: TBA Start Date: March 2, 2027 LEARN MORE
Contact: Matt Biscan Registration Opens: Oct 1, 2026 Start Date: January 28, 2027 LEARN MORE
Interested in getting more involved? Is looking through this catalog and wondering how you can get involved as a trip leader or instructor? We would love to have you! Check out our Volunteer Resources pages to learn more about leadership opportunities with CMC! Still want to know more, please contact the office at office@cmc.org or by phone at 303-279-3080 extension #3.
ICE LEAD CLIMBING This class is for experienced ice climbers who are ready to get on the sharp end. You'll learn how to place ice screws, ice leading strategy, and the option for a technical descent. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Challenging
5 days
GLACIER TRAVEL MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL This course is for those who are interested in learning and practicing the glacier travel and alpine skills that are needed to safely climb and enjoy glaciated mountains. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Challenging
3 months
“I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in GTS this year. I had no knowledge of crevasse rescue prior to the class and now feel adequately equipped to be a contributing member to the process should the need ever arise. I think the class did a great job of providing us ample time to practice and reinforce our skills.” GLACIER TRAVEL STUDENT
Contact: Matthew Biscan Registration Opens: October 1, 2026 Start Date: February 11, 2027 LEARN MORE
Contact: Jenn Bealer Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 Start Date: Jan. 6th, 2027 LEARN MORE
FALL '26/WINTER '27
SNOW SPORTS
CMC offers skiing courses from resort to backcountry, nordic to telemark to alpine to snowboarding and flat-land ski touring to ski mountaineering. Find your preferred way to play in the snow below: BASIC SNOWSHOE SCHOOL - DENVER Contact: Wayne Howell A free, one-day class near Denver with equipment supplied. Learn about snowshoe selection and fit, prepping for a trip, trail Registration Opens: Dec. 20th, 2026 techniques, breaking trail, and fall recovery. Remember to click on Start Date: Multiple the Colorado Symbol to find Basic Snowshoing in other regions. LEARN MORE
DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 Day
TELEMARK SKI SCHOOL Telemark Ski School is designed to help beginners and experts alike learn or improve their tele skills, and put those skills to use in the backcountry.
P P I I T T O O PPRR
DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
3 days
Contact: Marilyn Choske Registration Opens: Nov. 1st, 2026 Start Date: January, 24, 2027 LEARN MORE
Feeling burned out by constant screens and the rush of daily life? You’re not alone! That’s exactly where the Colorado Mountain Club comes in. Science shows that time outside, moving your body, and connecting with others can lift your mood and boost your well-being. At CMC, we bring all three together—so instead of scrolling, you’ll find yourself on a summit, laughing with new friends, and remembering what it feels like to truly breathe. Read more about Summits over Scrolling ..
ASHLEY KRAMER Member Since 2024
Wondering how to afford all this gear? Having the right gear is one of the best ways to ensure you are recreating responsibly. We also know that buying the right gear can be expensive! CMC’s exclusive member benefits are a great way to get the gear you need! More questions? Please contact the office at office@cmc.org or by phone at 303-279-3080 extension #3.
INTRO TO BACKCOUNTRY SKI/SPLITBOARDING We want to help our Colorado community learn the skills necessary to get started on their backcountry ski or snowboard journey! DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
3 days
BACKCOUNTRY NORDIC SKI SCHOOL Learn the nuances of nordic skiing in the backcountry! Learn to cross-country ski and get prepared for backcountry trails using classic Nordic-style technique. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
4 days
Contact: Kahle Toothill Registration Opens: TBA Start Date: TBA LEARN MORE
Contact: Carol Munch Registration Opens: TBA Start Date: TBA LEARN MORE
SKI MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL Contact: Scott Johnson This course is intended to develop the skills, attitudes, and awareness needed for ski mountaineering tours, such as 13er and Registration Opens: TBA Start Date: TBA 14er ski descents in Colorado. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Difficult
14 days
LEARN MORE
FALL '26/WINTER '27
WILDERNESS MEDICINE
A wilderness medicine course prepares you for the possibility of a backcountry emergency and is your first step toward becoming more self-sufficient on the trail. You’ll learn how to assess patients, provide effective treatment for common outdoor illnesses and injuries, and make evacuation decisions.
Our courses are led using Backcountry Pulse’s top-notch, inclusive curriculum— rooted in global-health principles, trauma-informed care, and justice-based teaching designed to empower and build community resilience—these courses prep you for whatever the backcountry throws your way. Plus, every instructor holds Wilderness First Responder or higher training, so you’re learning from real pros who teach with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and real-world experience.
CPR/AED COURSES In this single evening course you'll learn about CPR in wilderness environments, automated external defibrillator, and how to help a choking victim. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 day
C M PaRT C NER
Contact: Jeff Flax Registration Opens: Multiple Start Date: Multiple LEARN MORE
WILDERNESS FIRST AID Contact: Ashley Kramer 2 day in person 16 hour training that covers environmental, medical, and traumatic injuries with a focus on inclusive care and Registration Opens: Multiple Start Date: Multiple rescue, patient, and bystander mental health. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Moderate
2 days
LEARN MORE
WILDERNESS FIRST AID INSTRUCTOR TRAINING Are you passionate about Wilderness Medicine? Do you want to Contact: Ashley Kramer share your skills with others? Participate in our instructor training Registration Opens: Multiple Start Date: Multiple program & give back to the Club. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Moderate
2 days
LEARN MORE
w nneew e e s s r r u u o o cc
STOP THE BLEED This course is designed to teach individuals how to control severe bleeding in emergencies, developed by the American College of Surgeons DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 day
In 2026 CMC taught:
27
Contact: Wayne Howell Registration Opens: Multiple Start Date: Multiple LEARN MORE
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OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS
OF TRAINING
FALL '26/WINTER '27
INDOOR CLIMBING
Indoor climbing programs welcome beginners and experienced climbers alike. Build confidence and climbing skills in a supportive indoor setting, and stay active through winter. ALong with our courses, Colorado Mountain Club's Family Climb Night and Adult Climb Night are welcoming chances to climb together, meet other climbers, and enjoy the community! BASIC ROCK CLIMBING The best class to start with! It is a prerequisite for all the rock, snow, and ice climbing classes. Upon completion of this class you’ll be able to climb indoors at any rock climbing gym. DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
1 Day
Contact: Jane McManus Registration Opens: Multiple Start Date: Multiple LEARN MORE
FAMILY CLIMB NIGHTS
ADULT CLIMB NIGHTS
Climb together as a family, meet other climbers,
Connect with other climbers, challenge yourself,
and stay active indoors when the weather gets
and stay active indoors when the weather gets
colder. Find the next event here!
colder. Find your community here!
Represent the club while your out adventuring with our collection of exclusive Colorado Mountain Club merchandise.
Why send your kids here? Looking for a way to keep your kids busy this fall or winter that doesn’t involve screens, sugar, or you refereeing the living room? Let us give you to top 4 reasons to let us take your kiddos: 1. You get bragging rights, they get epic stories.
Instead of “we built a snowman,” it’s “we built a snow shelter.” Suddenly bedtime stories are way more hardcore! 2. Your kids burn energy, you get your sanity back.
Hours of climbing, snowshoeing, and winter games = one blissfully tired kiddo ready for an early bedtime! 3. They learn survival skills, you look like a genius.
Fire-building, avalanche awareness, winter navigation… basically everything you wish you knew before your last ski trip. 4. Some well earned free time.
While they’re off summiting mini-mountains with trained instructors; you’re enjoying coffee that’s still hot. Everyone wins. View full index of courses here
FALL '26/WINTER '27
YOUTH PROGRAMS
4th-6th Graders
1st-3rd Graders
WINTER CAMPS - DAY EXPEDITIONS Join the Colorado Mountain Club Youth Program for one day or a multiple days of adventure! Programs run from 9am-4pm and are open to grades 1st-6th.
Contact: Youth Staff Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 Start Date: Dec. 21st, 2026
DATE
TOPIC
REGISTER
Dec. 21st, 2025
Outdoor Rock Climbing
LEARN MORE
Dec. 22nd, 2026
Snowshoeing
LEARN MORE
Dec. 23rd, 2026
CMC Basecamp Day
LEARN MORE
January 4th, 2027
Sledding & Winter Ecology
LEARN MORE
January 5th, 2027
Ice Skating & Backcountry Cooking
LEARN MORE
DATE
TOPIC
REGISTER
Dec. 21st, 2026
Snowshoeing
LEARN MORE
Dec. 22nd, 2026
Outdoor Rock Climbing
LEARN MORE
Dec. 23rd, 2026
CMC Basecamp Day
LEARN MORE
January 4th, 2027
Ice Skating & Backcountry Cooking
LEARN MORE
January 5th, 2027
Sledding & Winter Ecology
LEARN MORE
TEEN ADVENTURE CAMPS - OVERNIGHT Join the Colorado Mountain Club Youth Program for overnight programs to engage your teen in the wonders of the outdoors! Open to grades 6th-12th. WINTER HUT SNOWSHOE TRIP For youth ages 12-18 with previous rock climbing experience, this is the course for you. Learn the basics of ice climbing in this Contact: Youth Staff Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 two-day program. Start Date: Jan. 16th, 2027 DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Easy
3 days
LEARN MORE
INTRODUCTION TO ICE CLIMBING For youth ages 12-18 with previous rock climbing experience, this is the course for you. Learn the basics of ice climbing in this Contact: Youth Staff Registration Opens: Oct. 1st, 2026 two-day program. Start Date: Feb. 20th, 2027 DIFFICULTY
LENGTH
Moderate
2 days
LEARN MORE
P I P I T T O PPRRO
Are you ready to dive into the wild with us at CMC, but maybe need some financial support for our camps? Here at CMC we believe that the outdoors are for all, and we never want cost to be a barrier.
Don't hesitate, just click here to apply for financial assistance! Want to discuss payment options for your next thrilling adventure? Reach out to hanahamilton@cmc.org. We can't wait to chat! HANA HAMILTON Member Since 2022
View full index of courses here
FALL '26/WINTER '27
PREREQUISITES Why Do Some Courses Have Prerequisites? Courses with prerequisites at Colorado Mountain Club (CMC) are designed for participants who are practicing higher-level skills that require a solid foundation in related disciplines. These prerequisites are essential for ensuring the safety and success of all participants and instructors during these advanced courses. The experience or training required helps maintain the integrity of the learning environment and allows for a focus on more complex skills.
Two Examples of Waivers to Meet Course Requirements:
OVERVIEW: WTS is offered every spring and fall, consisting of five mandatory lectures and five mandatory field days. Topics include clothing, nutrition, navigation by map and compass, snow travel (including ice axe use and selfarrest), avalanche awareness, mountain weather, and basic survival skills. REQUIREMENTS: Participants must demonstrate equivalent experience or training in these skills to be eligible for a waiver. This process allows experienced CMC members to earn a Wilderness Trekking Skill badge, acknowledging their competencies without needing to complete the entire WTS course. LEARN MORE
OVERVIEW: This is not a refresher course.
Participants must demonstrate proficiency in all the skills covered in the Basic Climbing class. It is crucial to arrive at 6 PM if you do not have a climbing partner enrolled with you. PURPOSE: The waiver is designed for
experienced climbers who have not taken CMC's Basic Climbing course. By successfully completing the waiver, participants can skip the Basic Climbing class and gain access to more advanced climbing courses and participate in CMC Top-Rope Climbing Trips.
LEARN MORE
FALL '26/WINTER '27
LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS How do you learn best? At the Colorado Mountain Club (CMC), we recognize that effective outdoor education happens through diverse learning experiences. Our approach combines self-paced online learning through our LMS Coassemble, traditional classroom instruction, and hands-on field experiences in Colorado's front country and backcountry environments. ONLINE LMS THROUGH COASSEMBLE
Our online platform through Coassemble ensures courses are accessible to all members regardless of location or schedule, allowing students to learn at their own pace. The system caters to various learning styles through videos, interactive exercises, quizzes, and simulations that keep learning engaging and effective.
IN PERSON OR VIRTUAL LEARNING Traditional classroom settings, whether delivered virtually or in-person, provide focused environments where complex concepts can be thoroughly explored with real-time instructor support. These structured experiences foster peer-to-peer learning and ensure all participants grasp fundamental principles before moving to field application.
FIELD EXPERIENCE IN COLORADO & BEYOND Field components allow participants to apply knowledge in Colorado's diverse landscapes, building confidence and competence that can't be achieved through indoor instruction alone. These experiences expose students to variable conditions while progressing from front country to backcountry settings, developing crucial decision-making skills for safe outdoor recreation. View full index of courses here
www.cmc.org • office@cmc.org • (303) 279-3080 15605 W. 32nd Ave. Golden, CO 8040`1