Glacier Travel

Term from Mountain Guiding industry explained for recruiters

Glacier Travel refers to the specialized skill of safely moving across glaciers (large masses of ice) in mountainous regions. This is a fundamental skill for mountain guides and includes understanding how to navigate around crevasses (deep ice cracks), use safety equipment properly, and lead groups safely across ice and snow. When this appears on a resume, it indicates that the person has formal training and experience in moving safely across glaciers, either alone or while leading others. This skill is often mentioned alongside other mountaineering abilities like rock climbing or avalanche assessment.

Examples in Resumes

Led 50+ clients safely through Glacier Travel expeditions on Mount Rainier

Certified instructor for Glacier Travel and crevasse rescue techniques

Developed safety protocols for Glacier Travel and Glaciated Terrain navigation

Typical job title: "Mountain Guides"

Also try searching for:

Alpine Guide Mountaineering Guide Mountain Guide Glacier Guide Ice Climbing Guide High-Altitude Guide Expedition Leader

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you assess and manage risk when leading glacier travel expeditions?

Expected Answer: A senior guide should discuss weather assessment, route planning, client evaluation, equipment checks, and emergency response protocols. They should also mention team management and decision-making processes in challenging conditions.

Q: Describe your approach to training new guides in glacier travel techniques.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience, teaching methodology, risk management, and ability to develop comprehensive training programs. Should include how they assess guide readiness and maintain safety standards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when planning a glacier travel route?

Expected Answer: Should discuss weather conditions, seasonal changes, crevasse patterns, client ability levels, timing considerations, and backup plans. Should show understanding of both technical and client-focused aspects.

Q: How do you handle emergency situations during glacier travel?

Expected Answer: Should explain rescue procedures, communication protocols, first aid application, and evacuation procedures. Should demonstrate knowledge of both prevention and response strategies.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What essential equipment is needed for glacier travel?

Expected Answer: Should list and explain basic glacier travel gear including ropes, harnesses, ice axes, crampons, and rescue equipment. Should understand proper use and maintenance of each item.

Q: Explain the basic techniques for roped glacier travel.

Expected Answer: Should describe proper rope techniques, team spacing, communication methods, and basic movement skills on snow and ice. Should understand fundamental safety protocols.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic glacier travel techniques
  • Essential safety equipment use
  • Basic route finding
  • Group management fundamentals

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced route planning
  • Crevasse rescue leadership
  • Weather assessment
  • Client instruction abilities

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex expedition planning
  • Guide training and mentoring
  • Risk management expertise
  • Emergency response coordination

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal glacier travel certification or training
  • Limited or no rescue technique experience
  • Poor understanding of safety protocols
  • Lack of proper equipment knowledge
  • No experience with group management in alpine environments