New Photo Album up …. Indian Creek – best crack on the planet!

8 10 2009

Check out these amazing photos of Indian Creek! Unbelievable lines. Don’t forget, we’re still out there crankin’ still the sun goes down….. mention our blog for 10% off all trips during the off-season this year.

http://www.apexmountainschool.com/RESOURCES/PHOTOGALLERY/tabid/77/AlbumID/429-7/Default.aspx





Wilderness First Responder RECERTIFICATION in Colorado

7 10 2009

Apex to offer WFR recert course in beautiful Colorado for the 4th year running!

This course is provided for the recertification of a Wilderness First Responder certification. Did you receive your certification through another provider? No problem – we honor most major providers for recerts; call for more details and prior approval.

Our course curriculum and certification is provided by world-renowned SOLO Wilderness Medicine, and is taught by certified instructors. SOLO brought Wilderness Medicine to the United States in 1976.

The Apex Mountain School – SOLO Wilderness First Responder curriculum uses the principles of long-term care, improvised resources, and varying environmental conditions as the framework for learning. Now the most widely recognized and most oft-required outdoor leader certification, the Wilderness First Responder course was initially developed and taught by SOLO in the mid-1980’s. Created to provide outdoor leaders, guides, and rangers with the knowledge to deal with crises in remote settings, this 16-hour certification course meets the requirements for a Wilderness First Responder Certification. Like all of our Wilderness Medicine programs, the emphasis of the WFR certification is on prevention and decision-making.

The WFR curriculum addresses, among other matters, the issues of medicolegal concerns, bloodborne pathogens and infectious diseases. The Patient Assessment System, the foundation of the course, trains students on the fundamentals of determining and addressing the status and needs of backcountry patients. Other sessions provide instruction in traumatic situations and other medical emergencies response. Environmental issues such as hypothermia and heat injuries are dealt with in great detail. Practical simulations and labs provide practice in backcountry leadership and rescue skills. This WFR recertification course reinforces and tests these skills in an applicational context and a written exam.

This intensive 16-hour curriculum takes place over two days, and should not be confused with the full WFR course.

Following brief informational reviews, we reinforce with multiple indoor and outdoor mock scenarios and simulations. The course schedule is as follows: Saturday, October 24, 8am to 4:30pm, with CPR offered from 4:30pm to 6:30pm; Sunday, October 25, 8am to 3:30pm. Evening study sessions may also be beneficial. The program is fast-paced– be prepared.

Since much of class time is outdoors, come prepared for the time of year and environment in which you are taking the course. Sturdy boots, reliable raingear, appropriate clothing and cold-weather items are essential – Colorado weather can go from 65 to 25 degrees in minutes, nighttime temps may be frigid, and snow is always possible in the colorado mountains. Bring lunch with you daily, as lunch is an open-discussion environment that is part of the class.

Students who successfully complete the course receive a SOLO Wilderness First Responder card and if appropriate, an American Heart Association Adult Heartsaver CPR card (or equivalent).

Certification is based on successful completion of the course, which includes 100% attendance of course. Instructors provide feedback and brief opportunities for questions. Final assessment of each student’s skills includes written and practical exams.

For more information, visit:

https://www.apexmountainschool.com/COURSES/tabid/56/Default.aspx?Category=1&Type=21&SIndex=6





Wilderness First Responder in Colorado

7 10 2009

Apex will offer it’s full Wilderness First Responder course in Colorado from October 15 through November 1, 2009.

Learn the tools and skills for wilderness and rescue medicine. World-famous SOLO Wilderness Medicine School introduced this course to the U.S. in the 1970’s and has been educating an international audience ever since. Take your WFR from the source – call Apex today to reserve your spot.

Our course curriculum and certification is provided by world-renowned SOLO Wilderness Medicine, and is taught by certified instructors. SOLO brought Wilderness Medicine to the United States in 1976.

The Apex Mountain School – SOLO Wilderness First Responder curriculum uses the principles of long-term care, improvised resources, and varying environmental conditions as the framework for learning. Now the most widely recognized and most oft-required outdoor leader certification, the Wilderness First Responder course was initially developed and taught by SOLO in the mid-1980’s. Created to provide outdoor leaders, guides, and rangers with the knowledge to deal with crises in remote settings, this 80-hour certification course meets DOT National Standards for First Responder with additional protocols for extended-care situations. Like all of our Wilderness Medicine programs, the emphasis of the WFR is on prevention and decision-making.

The WFR curriculum addresses, among other matters, the issues of medicolegal concerns, bloodborne pathogens and infectious diseases. The Patient Assessment System, the foundation of the course, trains students on the fundamentals of determining and addressing the status and needs of backcountry patients. Other sessions provide instruction in traumatic situations and other medical emergencies response. Environmental issues such as hypothermia and heat injuries are dealt with in great detail. Practical simulations and labs provide practice in backcountry leadership and rescue skills.

This intensive 80-hour curriculum takes place over seven days, and should not be confused with the condensed 5-day, 45-hour course offered by competitors, which does not meet DOT National Standards for First Responder with additional protocols for extended-care situations.
A typical day consists of a mixture of hands-on practical skill work and information-rich lecture sessions. To increase learning and comprehension, we complement these sessions with indoor and outdoor mock scenarios and simulations.

The course schedule is as follows: Sunday, October 25, 4pm to 7:30pm; Monday, October 26 through Saturday, October 31, 8am to 6:30pm daily with at least one late day; Sunday, November 1, 8am to 3pm. Evening study sessions may also be beneficial. The program is fast-paced– be prepared.

Since much of class time is outdoors, come prepared for the time of year and environment in which you are taking the course. Sturdy boots, reliable raingear, appropriate clothing and cold-weather items are essential – Colorado weather can go from 70 to 30 degrees in minutes, nighttime temps may be frigid, and snow is always possible in the fall season. Bring lunch with you daily, as lunch is an open-discussion environment that is part of the class.

Students who successfully complete the course receive a SOLO Wilderness First Responder card and an American Heart Association Adult Heartsaver CPR card (or equivalent). Certification is based on successful completion of the course, which includes 100% attendance of course. Instructors provide ongoing feedback and many opportunities for questions. Final assessment of each student’s skills includes written and practical exams. Syllabus, First Aid Book, and Workbook are included in your course fee and will be provided on the first day of your course.

For more information:

https://www.apexmountainschool.com/COURSES/tabid/56/Default.aspx?Category=1&Type=21&SIndex=6





Trotter bags are here !!

7 10 2009

Coolest chalk bags ever!! Each one is hand-made, unique, light-weight, wool blend bag with inner lining and draw string. Be the envy of your crew! Order by contacting Scott @ Apex…. www.apexmountainschool.com





Apex Offers Local’s “Learn to Rock Climb” Program

11 06 2009

With the closing of the Teva games, it’s a great time for locals to get out and play in the Vail Valley. And what better way to do that then to try your hand at climbing with the help of the #1 rated climbing guides in the valley?

 Apex Mountain School is offering a local’s “learn to rock climb” day for little more than the cost of pizza and a refreshment. “It was important for us to offer an inexpensive alternative to locals during the off-season,” says Scott Smith, Director of Apex Mountain School.

 “During the slow season, it’s a cool way to get some of our local residents out that may not have had the opportunity to otherwise,” says Smith, “and we also appreciate the chance to mentor aspiring climbers in a safer introduction to the sport.”

 Smith says rock climbing is a great way to put yourself more in touch with the outdoor environment, build confidence and self esteem, and encourage bonding, among many other benefits. He expects the course to be popular due to the sunnier days and low cost. “We have a limited number of spots available and we expect a strong turnout, so we encourage folks to register soon and reserve a spot,” says Smith.

 The course will take place on Sunday, June 14, from 9am to 12:30pm, and is open to the public. Topics include climbing technique, belay practices, anchors, and more. All ages, ability levels and fitness levels are welcome. All activity equipment is provided. Cost is $35. Call Apex at 970-949-9111, or email climb@apexmountainschool.com to register today.





Yangshuo, China Rock Climbing

2 06 2009

A new international trip has been added to our itineraries.  Join us on a twelve day adventure to China and experience ancient culture, beautiful scenery, and most importantly, some of the best climbing in the world. See our website for more details. www.apexmountainschool.com





St. Augustine Group Rocks Vail!

2 06 2009

Wednesday May 27th Apex Guides took out a group of 40 boys for some excellent rock climbing, as part of a school trip.  Things were a bit hectic to start off when we were informed last minute that the railroad wouldn’t let us stage or access our permit area through their land.  We quickly formulated a back up plan to relocate out at Fraggle Rock and had the St. Augustine group climbing in no time.  We managed to get everyone on a rope and climbing before any inclement weather set in and the group had a really great time and were impressed by our organization and professionalism.  We enjoyed spending the day with the St. Augustine group and look forward to getting out with them again soon!  Great job guys!





Apex Arrives

25 05 2009

Welcome to Apex Mountain School’s new blog.  Here you can find all the latest on courses, trips, group and corporate events, and all things Apex.  Vertical enthusiasts get your fix.  Cheers!