Discover the unparalleled experience of conquering the Grand Teton with Exum Mountain Guides’ expertly designed 4-Day Climbing Course. This immersive program is tailored to elevate your climbing skills, culminating in an unforgettable summit attempt. From foundational multi-pitch techniques to the exhilarating final ascent, Exum Mountain Guides provides a comprehensive journey for aspiring mountaineers.
Day 1: Level I Multi-Pitch Climbing Class – Mastering the Fundamentals
Your Grand Teton climbing adventure begins with a meeting with your dedicated Exum Mountain Guide. Together, you’ll venture to one of the premier climbing areas, renowned for its ideal learning environment. Day 1 is focused on building a strong foundation in multi-pitch climbing. You will be introduced to essential techniques and spend the day actively practicing these skills on low-angle multi-pitch climbs and rappels. This hands-on experience ensures you gain confidence and competence in the fundamental movements and safety procedures crucial for your ascent.
Day 2: Level II Multi-Pitch Climbing Class – Elevating Your Climbing Skills
Building upon the skills acquired on Day 1, your second day with Exum Mountain Guides takes you to more challenging terrain. This all-day Level II Multi-Pitch Climbing Class is designed to push your boundaries and refine your abilities. You will apply your newly learned techniques to steeper and more demanding climbs, preparing you for the rigors of Grand Teton. A highlight of the day is the introduction to overhanging rappelling, an advanced skill essential for more complex descents. Successful completion of Day 2 is a prerequisite for progressing to the Grand Teton climb, ensuring you are adequately prepared for the summit attempt.
Day 3: The Ascent Begins – Hiking to the Lower Saddle Base Camp
Day 3 marks the transition from skill-building to the mountain itself. You will meet your Exum Mountain Guide at our office for a 9:45 am start, where introductions and crucial information sharing will take place. Following a thorough gear check by your guide, your group will embark on the strenuous hike to the Lower Saddle. This demanding trek typically spans 5-7 hours, involving a significant 5,000 ft elevation gain over approximately 7 miles. Throughout the hike, your Exum Mountain Guide will set a sustainable pace, ensuring the group stays together and conserves energy. Rest stops are incorporated, and lunch is enjoyed amidst breathtaking alpine scenery. Arriving at the comfortable base camp hut at the Lower Saddle in the late afternoon or early evening, you’ll be treated to an early dinner. The evening concludes with a comprehensive briefing from your guides about the next day’s crucial summit attempt, followed by an early bedtime to maximize rest before the big day.
Day 4: Summit Day – Reaching the Peak and Descent to the Valley
The pivotal Day 4 begins with a 3:00 am wake-up call. After a quick and energizing breakfast, the climbing groups, led by Exum Mountain Guides, will converge and commence the summit attempt. This challenging day involves approximately 2,500 ft of hiking, scrambling, and technical climbing to reach the summit of Grand Teton. Most groups achieve the summit around 8:00 am, and weather permitting, you’ll have the opportunity to savor the awe-inspiring panoramic views from the top. Following the summit experience, groups typically return to the hut for lunch and a brief rest before beginning the descent back to the trailhead. This demanding 12-15 hour day culminates in a return to the office, leaving you tired, exhilarated, and with the immense satisfaction of having conquered Grand Teton with Exum Mountain Guides.
Important Note: The outlined itinerary is a typical framework and may be adjusted based on group abilities and mountain conditions. Exum Mountain Guides boasts an exceptional summit success rate, aiming for the true summit whenever feasible. For groups with varying abilities, the west summit (Enclosure) may be the target. If you seek a more personalized experience and wish to ensure your summit attempt is tailored to your group’s pace and capabilities, consider exploring a private climb with Exum Mountain Guides. Experience the Grand Teton with the expertise and guidance of Exum Mountain Guides.
