2008 Ice Program FAQ

When is the program this year?
See the schedule page for details.
Usually the lecture nights in Boston are in mid-December and the weekends in New Hampshire are in mid and late January or early February.

How do I apply?
Fill out an online application (available on November 15). Come to the first lecture and take a belay test. You can not pre-pregister for the program.

How can I be guaranteed a spot?
You can't. We are a very popular program so we usually have too many applications and have to reject some qualified applications. Sorry, but our volunteers can only take so many people.

What if I can not make the lecture night?
That means that you can not make the program this year.

How come you guys are such a pain about that?
We are all volunteers with very little time.

What is the total cost of the program?
Tution as posted on the current course web page, plus rental of boots and crampons (varies, budget $50/weekend), plus gas money up and back, plus breakfast and lunch.

How can I prepare for the program?
Go climbing a lot. Do some leading. Take a self-rescue class. By mid October there is usually snow on Mount Washington and you can do some winter hikes - maybe an overnight. Do some events with other AMC climbers.

Who gets in?
You are a climber. You have some winter sport experience. You are enthusiastic about ice climbing. You participate with the local community. You love pina coladas.

Do I need to lead climb?
No, but it will help you both in getting in and in mastering the skills we will teach you.

Are you a bunch of nerdy AMC types?
No. We are climbers.

What if I sign up but I can not make it?
We will be sad because we only accept people we are excited about. We do not give refunds on tuition.

This stupid FAQ did not answer my question!
Email [mail] with your questions.