I would put avalanche safety and a wilderness first responder course as my top priorities. They teach you how to not get into trouble and how to help others if you do. Just being able to spot an avalanche field is critical, and knowing the signs of a traumatic brain injury (just as an example) can easily be the difference between life and death.
Beyond those I think you'll want to hang out with folks who are better and more experienced than you because you'll see places you need to improve. I'm on a search and rescue team which is great because you get a lot of different disciplines and you're sent into environments that aren't really your cup of tea.
Some folks are naturally strong navigators, some are born climbers, and others can look at the clouds and very accurately pick between a gnarly storm and general afternoon squalls.
But with a WFR certification and an avalanche class I'd feel a lot more comfortable with you on nearly any trip I'd do.
manpreet![Tuteehub forum best answer]()
Best Answer
2 years ago
I have recently developed an interest in mountaineering. There seems to be so many skills to learn (and master) for mountaineering. Although I know it will take a few years to learn (although I'd probably never stop learning) I'm wondering from people who enjoy the sport - what are some skills that a hopeful mountaineer should learn first?
I do have quite a bit of backpacking experience (although, I need to delve more into winter camping), and I am training to be in better physical and mental shape. But what about skills such as rock climbing, ice axe usage, and other technical skills?
For instance, as a beginner - is learning to be a strong rock climber a good skill to master to eventually learn ice climbing. Or as a beginner is it better to take glacier routes (and learn glacier travel/crevasse rescue) and over time learn to master more technical climbing.
Note: I have read through Mountaineering, The Freedom of the Hills. This book is very in-depth and I can see why people highly recommend it. They go over many skills though, which is why I come here seeking advice.