Introduction to Backcountry Skiing & Riding
Introduction to Backcountry Skiing & Riding
Learn to backcountry ski and splitboard
Introduction Group Lesson
Intro to Backcountry Skiing & Riding is a one-day course that teaches you the fundamentals of backcountry skiing and splitboarding. During the group lesson, learn about your gear and gain knowledge in preparing for a day in the backcountry. Build skills to travel efficiently across various terrain; practice uphill, downhill, and transition techniques; and become familiar with backcountry etiquette and best practices. This introductory class is a proper beginner course that can be taken 1-3 times, depending on your goals. If you are looking for more of a challenge, check out Intermediate Backcountry & AIARE Prep or Group Tour.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Gear - become proficient on how to stay warm and dry while touring; tips and tricks for nutrition and hydration; how to dial in your equipment for proper fit and performance, and a brief overview of rescue and emergency gear
Departure Check - how to conduct a transceiver check before departing the trailhead
Uphill Travel - learn backcountry skinning basics and techniques for switchback turns
Transitions - how to efficiently and comfortably switch from tour mode to downhill
Downhill Travel - techniques for skiing and riding on a variety of terrain and variable conditions
Etiquette and Best Practices - learn to be a good steward in the backcountry community
Course Details
PREREQUISITES . . .
This course is ideal for beginners; no backcountry experience needed
While not mandatory, we strongly recommend taking an introductory course if you've never been backcountry skiing or splitboarding before
Familiarizing yourself with your equipment and learning how to move efficiently in winter conditions will allow you to better focus on the avalanche safety education provided in an AIARE course
Participants are expected to be proficient in skiing or riding on blue/black terrain and should have prior experience on off-trail ungroomed terrain within resort boundaries
Ideally, students joining this course should have approximately 0-5 days of experience in the backcountry
EQUIPMENT NEEDED . . .
Alpine Touring Setup (Available for Rent), Splitboard (Available for Rent)
Avalanche Gear: Beacon, Shovel, Probe (Available for Rent)
A more detailed list of what you need will be sent with your reservation confirmation email
LOGISTICS . . .
Full-Day of Instruction
Days consist of both classroom and field practicum
You will meet your guide at The Trailhead gear store located in downtown Buena Vista, 402 East Main Street
Max CLIENT TO GUIDE RATIO . . .
4 Clients : 1 Instructor
