Chamonix called, and around 1.300 alpine enthusiasts responded. For the 14th edition of the Arc'teryx Alpine Academy 2025, the community gathered once again in the heart of the Mont Blanc massif.
The event combines professional outdoor training, a diverse community from over 35 nations and a festival feeling with a view of the breathtaking scenery of the Aguille du MidiLacrux was there again this year to bring you an insight.
Workshops of all kinds related to mountaineering
The event offers mountaineering enthusiasts of all experience levels a comprehensive program full of topics. Over 1.000 course places were fully booked again this year. These were led by more than 150 mountain guides and 35 professional athletes from all over the world. From alpine climbing courses to crevasse rescue From the mindful, Buddhist-inspired bouldering practice of “Iwa-Do,” there really was something for everyone.
The Alpine Academy doesn't charge admission; you only pay for the courses you book. Many of the workshops and the on-site music program were free of charge. You could simply register for them on the website.
The topic of inclusion was particularly emphasized at the Arc'teryx Alpine Academy 2025: Workshops such as "Climbing for People with Disabilities" and "Glacier Mobility and Safety for People with Disabilities" brilliantly implemented a barrier-free festival and proved that mountain sports are for everyone.
This year we decided to go on a glacier tour to the Col d'Entreves.
At 3,466:XNUMX a.m., we took the bus through the Mont Blanc Tunnel and directly up to an altitude of XNUMX meters. From there, bright sunshine and snow-capped peaks awaited us on our hike.
The offer away from rock and summit
For those who were unable to secure a place on the course, the Alpine Academy still had so much to offer that boredom was certainly not an issue.
The variety of free workshops attracted many visitors to the festival grounds in Couttet Park. The program began with a morning yoga session or a community run, invited participants to boulder on the spray wall built by the athletes, and offered lectures and product launches (a dream for gearheads!) as well as exciting film premieres on the big screen. The film portraits are clearly recommended for anyone who wants to gain an emotional insight into the philosophies of professional athletes. "Muga" follows Ashima Shiraishi on her mindful journey in climbing, while Martin Kern pushes personal boundaries and talks about his passion for running and the mountains in "See those Flowers."
Visitors also had the opportunity to learn about Arc'teryx's sustainability concept. "ReBird" is all about extending the lifespan of gear. We found it particularly appealing that visitors could get behind the sewing machine and create stylish bags from scraps and advertising banners together with ReBird and artist Nicole McLaughlin.
Also not to be missed were the partner brands that presented themselves on site: Scarpa, CAMP, Gore-Tex and Recco not only presented their products but also made them available for free testing.
Alpine beats create atmosphere
After intensive days on rock, ice and trails, everyone met in the open air in the afternoon to celebrate with live music, DJ sets and good food in the park.
The atmosphere: magical – with views of the Mont Blanc massif, the Academy created a backdrop that was almost as impressive as the daytime tours. We think it's a first-class community experience.
Alpine space for female empowerment
New this year was the expanded offering of women-for-women programs at the Alpine Academy. There were numerous mentoring opportunities in women-focused courses and community meetings that promote inclusion and progress in mountain sports. One particularly inspiring presentation for us was "Lessons from the Mountains with Women Athletes."
Here reported Ines Papert, Matilda Söderlund, Sarah Hueniken, Elise Poncet and Shelma Jun shared their careers in their respective disciplines. They discussed athletic highs, challenges, setbacks, and experiences with structural barriers in the mountain sports world. The goal: increased visibility, diversity, and mutual support in mountaineering. What was particularly inspiring for us was the openness with which they discussed mental strength, overcoming fear, and navigating performance and self-care.
I was made to believe that there could only be one cool girl […] who belongs with the boys.
Shelma Jun
We [women] are stronger together. When we support each other, some of it.
Conclusion
No matter how ambitious you are about mountaineering or your passion for trails, the four days of the Alpine Academy should be for everyone who enjoys the mountains.
With a special focus on inclusion and diversity, the Alpine Academy is a unique place to participate, listen, learn, exchange and enjoy.
The days flew by, and we enjoyed every moment. See you next year!