Ice course at the Dachstein
State Association Basic Training Adamekhütte, September 11-13, 2026
Final technical step to becoming a mountain rescuer
21 candidates from the Upper Austrian mountain rescue service successfully completed the final technical course of their basic training in the Dachstein area.
The ice climbing course in the Dachstein region marked the final technical training phase of the basic training for the trainees of the Upper Austrian Mountain Rescue Service. Following intensive courses in rock climbing, winter sports, and skiing techniques, they had to put their newly acquired skills to the test under alpine conditions in rocky, ice, and glacial terrain.
Starting at the Dachstein South Face cable car
The course began at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, at the Dachstein South Face cable car station. A total of 21 trainees and six instructors participated in the course.
Despite initially overcast weather, intensive work was already underway at the training stations. The program included building anchor points in rock using mobile belay devices and using the tripod stationed on the Dachstein mountain for rescue operations in alpine terrain. Participants were able to deepen and solidify important techniques for future operations.
Around 2 p.m., the five training groups set off across the Dachstein mountain range towards the Adamek Hut. Light fog accompanied the ascent, creating an impressive high-alpine atmosphere. Two groups began parts of their practical assessment on the first day.
Training on the Gosau Glacier
Saturday presented itself in its best light. Under excellent conditions, the training took place on the Gosau Glacier, where the candidates practiced a wide variety of techniques in ice and glacier terrain.
In the late afternoon, the "Improvised Mountain Rescue" test took place. Around the Adamek Hut, participants had to independently execute various tasks and rescue techniques under time pressure. The performance demonstrated confirmed the high level of training of the aspiring mountain rescuers.
Return route via the Steinerscharte pass
On Sunday, the return route initially led through the quarry to the Steinerscharte. From there, the group followed the secured route back to the Dachstein South Face cable car. After the descent at approximately 3:40 p.m., equipment and gear were stored, and the course was reviewed together.
With the successful completion of the ice climbing course, the participants have now completed the final technical training module of their basic training. Before the training can be fully completed, only the SAN2 course remains, which includes extensive scenario and operational training in the areas of technology and medical services.
Special thanks go to the instructors for the professional execution of the course and to the candidates for their great commitment, motivation and performance in the challenging alpine terrain.
Course instructor: Thomas Kneissl
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