a

Rock & Alpine

Get on the Sharp End

Rock & Alpine Education

Mountain education is a lifelong pursuit, and we’re here to support your progression. Our courses build your technical and leadership skills through hands-on instruction and mentored application in a supportive learning environment. Whether you’re just getting started or refining advanced techniques, our experienced educators will meet you where you’re at—helping you sharpen your skills, boost your confidence, and take your adventures further.

Educational trips

Crevasse Rescue

Crevasse rescue is a necessary skill for glacier travel at any level. Get your glacier climbing career started right with a comprehensive crevasse rescue course. Our two-day program efficiently teaches the necessary skills for dealing with various crevasse fall scenarios, without rushing through practice of these important tools.

Cascade Mountain Ascents

Glacier Mountaineering

Our four-day Glacier Mountaineering Course on Mount Baker is a technical course designed for recreationists seeking a concise and affordable approach to learning technical alpine climbing skills in glaciated terrain. The well scaffolded curriculum is designed to meet students where they are in their understanding of alpine climbing

Cascade Mountain Ascents

Gym to Crag

If you’ve been looking longingly out the window at the gym, dreaming of climbing on some real rock, it’s time to make it happen! Our gym to crag course will show you how to use what you already know from climbing indoors to get outside and start building new

Reviews

Over 100 5 star reviews!

Climbing with CMA was a true reflection of mindful mountaineering. As a female mountain lover, I’m used to being the only lady in a group of dudes. Sometimes that doesn’t feel 100% comfortable, particularly when you feel like it’s all about the grind, no emotions allowed. With CMA I felt that I was part of a big bear hug of awesomeness. Guides often set the tone for the team, and Zack set a tone of kindness and respect for everyone. When the going got tough, his humor lightened the mood without jeopardizing the seriousness of what we doing. I will definitely be climbing with CMA again!

“They do the essentials really well: they’re professional, knowledgeable and competent, great teachers, and always keep an eye on safety as every guide service must. What sets them apart for me is that they do all that AND make it FUN. Some of the best times I’ve ever had in the mountains are with this crew. I highly recommend them!”

“I hired this guide crew for technical education and then returned for their recreational guiding services. I’ll continue to lean on Cascade Mountain Ascents to bring me further into the backcountry and advance my technical skills in the mountains.”

Cascade Mountain Ascents is seriously raising the bar for avalanche education—Fun-loving, inclusive, knowledgable, fantastic educators, and all around stellar folks! I would absolutely recommend taking a course or spending a weekend in the mountains CMA!

“Zack and Cascade Mountain Ascents is the best choice for your adventure no matter your skill level. From beginner to seasoned pro, Zack has you covered. His knowledge and skills of all-terrain and mountain situations had us feeling safe and confident all the way.”

“I’ve taken courses with the guides at CMA as well as gotten personal goals accomplished. Each time I’ve come away more competent, more confident, and inspired to take what I’ve learned into my next outing.”

“Fifth time out there with Zack – and as always it was spectacular. Zack‘s calm guiding style – paired with perfect preparation and route planning – push you without ever overwhelming personal abilities and strength. Countless successfully climbed peaks and everlasting memories are the rewards.”

“I have skied with all of the guides at CMA and have had great experiences. They are passionate about their craft, and it shows in the experiences they provide. They know where to find the best skiing and have extensive knowledge of the local terrain.”

View more reviews on google

EducationView All

Rock & AlpineView All

Ski & RideView All