Paragon Guides is offering a uniqueprogram for high school age youthright here in the Vail Valley. This 5day Mountain Skills programemphasizes a wide range of skillsthat are used to travel safely in themountains. Paragon Guides has

been guiding in Vail and thesurrounding mountains for morethan 30 years. A foundation of goodmountaineering skills will providethe confidence needed for safemountain travel for years to come.Our Pitkin Creek Climbing Camp islocated in the Gore Range, north ofVail. The “high alpine’ setting offersrock and snow climbing as well as

ridge traverses and peak ascents,providing a great learningenvironment. Mountaineering skillswill be emphasized as well as rockand snow climbing, map andcompass, backcountry survival,leadership and campingtechniques. No previous rockclimbing or mountaineering skillsare necessary to participate in thecourse, just a spirt of adventureand a willingness to learn.

Paragon Guides will provide allcamp and group equipment.Personal gear is available for rent.Students will also get to experiencehiking and camping with Llamas.The use of llamas reduces packweight and adds to the mountainexperience. Students will still berequired to carry a pack with theirpersonal equipment.A “pre-trip” orientation meeting isincluded to prepare for the course