After studying the forecast, make sure to discuss it with your partners. Modern, digital, three-antennae beacon with fresh batteries. Whether you’re setting off into the wilderness or riding a lift and skiing out of bounds at a ski area (sometimes called “slackcountry” or “sidecountry” terrain), you’re in an uncontrolled environment. Learn more about these and other accessories in our article Avalanche Safety Gear and Checklist. 1 liter bottles are the standard. Downhill before uphill. Home > 5 reasons why Hakuba, Japan is the best place for an introduction to backcountry skiing. UAF Nanook Recreation. Offered for free in many locations, including some REI stores (look for an REI avalanche awareness class in your area), this course introduces and explains where and why avalanches occur and provides a basic approach to managing risk in the backcountry. This requires about one hour of time. Let the experts do all the planning, they will choose the best place for you to ski on any given day. This is the workhorse glove and is most often worn on warmer days when mountaineering. Ski Boots should have a walk mode. Access to backcountry skiing area from here. However, an intermediate level of ski experience at a resort is essential - you must be comfortable on ungroomed blue runs and you will have a better time on the course if you have some experience skiing with a daypack (30L) and skiing varied terrain and conditions. This is so you can set your poles longer when skinning uphill and then shorten them for the descent. They often have leather palms and fingers. Using a splitboard rather than a traditional board reduces the amount of gear you have to carry and makes travel more efficient. Intro to Backcountry Skiing & Splitboarding. Avalanche airbag packs are pricey but they feature an airbag that inflates when you pull a ripcord, possibly helping you rise to the top of an avalanche debris field. In this course, you’ll be introduced to the tools and techniques that you’ll need to venture into the backcountry safely and efficiently. This camp is designed for those who have little to no backcountry experience. Assess your ski /snowboard skill level: It’s also a good idea to take a minute to consider how well you can ski or snowboard at the resort before you head into the backcountry. Splitboards are ideal for snowboarders. INTRO TO BACKCOUNTRY SKIING Are you new to the backcountry? Women: Rab Nexus Jacket. Terrain, snowpack, snow type, travel conditions, fitness, weather, avalanche hazard, and gear are just a few of the considerations that go into riding in the backcountry. Footwear should be appropriate to mode of travel i.e. You don’t even need to be an expert skier. "Wrap-Around" style sunglasses with 100% UV Protection. Jackson Hole offers terrain for all skill levels and some of the most epic out-of-bounds territory in the country, with plenty of options for backcountry newcomers. Plastic helmets are more durable, but heavier. For instance, wider skis will float better in powder than skinnier ones, but they’re heavier to haul in. The first tour up usually takes about one hour of moderate physical activity. Learn how to take your downhill skills into the backcountry, where the fun really happens. Estes Park, CO 80517. Join us for a day of foundation-level instruction on the essential skills for … This is the ASI workhorse course to get you away from the lifts and into the backcountry. If you want to ski or snowboard in the backcountry, it’s crucial that you enroll in avalanche safety training taught by a qualified professional. Bladders are not acceptable during sub freezing temps. A metal blade is mandatory. This comprehensive course is an excellent introduction to backcountry ski touring. For backcountry tour recommendations, check out Powder Project. These should be non-insulated pants with ankle cuffs wide enough to fit over your ski or ride boots. The intro to the backcountry course covers a general overview of how to prepare and execute a successful day in the backcountry including; essential avalanche hazard information, basic route finding skills, tips and tricks on efficiently using backcountry gear, and an introduction to the variety of resources and information available to the savvy backcountry traveler. Learn the basics and develop your skills in this backcountry ski camp. Should cover the ears and fit under a helmet. Feeze-dried meals are acceptable on overnight trips, but not day trips. Learn new skills in mountaineering, rock climbing, first aid, ski mountaineering, and more. No backcountry experience is required however you should be confident skiing ungroomed blue/intermediate runs. This 1-day course is designed for those who have little or no backcountry skiing experience and want to learn the basics. This one-day will give you a solid introduction to the equipment and skills you need to get out safely. This four-day Backcountry Development Series course is your comprehensive introduction to backcountry skiing and riding. Learn more about choosing and using climbing skins. As a professional guide, she has led climbing trips in the North Cascades and on Mount Rainier, Aconcagua and Denali. Snow conditions can run the gamut from perfect powder to wet and heavy (sometimes all in the same day), and the slopes are never marked, leaving it up to you to find the best way through trees, down chutes, around or over cliffs, and across flat sections. Hoods are ideal. Make sure to cross reference information you get from guidebooks and elsewhere with what you learned in the avalanche forecast. Foam helmets are lighter, but more easily damaged when carried in a pack. Hosted by. Lifetime membership is just $20. For … If the dates for this course do not work for your schedule, see our Custom Guiding options. In this intro … Andrew Drummond 17,950 views. Next, take a formal avalanche training course offered by numerous course providers across the country. Avalanche Safety Development Series: Level 1, Backcountry Skiing & Splitboarding Courses, Improve your ability to ski or ride in backcountry conditions, Get feedback on using your equipment effectively, Learn how to skin uphill efficiently and quickly transition to skiing or riding downhill, Gain basic route-finding and navigational skills, Understand what gear works and what doesn’t. Snow conditions in the backcountry tend to vary wildly and to ski efficiently you should be able … A splitboard is a modified snowboard that splits into two, essentially creating two free-heeled skis. Intro to Backcountry Skiing 1 Day Alpine Touring, Spiltboard or Telemark We love to ski the backcountry! The Level 1 course focuses on decision-making in avalanche terrain. There are several ways you can find a tour that will be right for you: Powder Project And, before you set out, check that everyone is comfortable with the plan. Protect your eyes and face from wind and sun burn. paulingst If you’re interested in a course, but it doesn’t fit into your schedule, please check out our custom guiding options. Nylon or mohair. Men: Rab Nexus Jacket Synthetic; Thin gloves used when hiking the early morning approach. I took the Intro to Backcountry Skiing Course based at Bogus Basin Ski Resort in Idaho. A lightweight or medium-weight jacket is preferred. Proper lunches that are prepared ahead of time are recommended (sandwich, burrito, leftover pizza, etc), along with an assortment of snack bars, gels, or trail mixes. Backcountry Skiing - Intro. (720) 387-8944. We'll introduce you to the different types of gear that allow us to travel through the backcountry, including use of climbing skins and other backcountry tools. Our comprehensive, one-day curriculum will prepare you for day tours in simple terrain via an overview of backcountry … Read on for more details, and use our Backcountry Skiing/Snowboarding Checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything important. Men: Rab Forge LS Tee Step 2: Assess Your Fitness and Skills. Backcountry ski bindings: The defining feature of backcountry bindings is the ability to move your heels up and down so you can tour up the mountain. The majority of backcountry skiers use alpine touring (AT) bindings, which allow you to lock your heels down at the top of the hill so you can ski back down making parallel turns as you would while downhill skiing. The first day was split into two parts, first half was lecture and the second half was in the filed. Forget the resort crowds and expensive lunches. Backcountry skiing and snowboarding is an exciting way to dive into new terrain and find fresh snow. © 2021 Recreational Equipment, Inc. All rights reserved. Collapsable metal or carbon rod used to probe avalanche debris while attempting to strike a buried target. 341 Moraine Avenue Ski specific shovel used to dig pits and avalanche rescue. Learn more about choosing snowboard boots. 5 reasons why Hakuba, Japan is the best place for an introduction to backcountry skiing… Skiers who prioritize surfing pow typically prefer wider skis and will accept the added weight. Bladders such as Camelbacks and Platypus are acceptable for above freezing temps, but only in conjunction with another bottle. A really enjoyable experience! Smartphone batteries tend to shut down in freezing temps - keep your phone in a warm inner layer. * Introduction to Backcountry Skiing & Snowboarding . Downhill backcountry-specific ski & boarding techniques. On your first outing, you’ll spend most of your time getting used to new gear and practicing skinning and doing kick turns (being somewhat close to the car will allow you to easily bail if you have gear issues or you get tired). Learn more about choosing backcountry boots. Intro to Backcountry Skiing 1 Day Alpine Touring, Spiltboard or Telemark We love to ski the backcountry! However, an intermediate level of ski experience at a resort is essential - you must be comfortable on ungroomed blue runs and you will have a better time on the course if you have some experience skiing with a daypack (30L) and skiing varied terrain and conditions. "Buffs" are quite versatile in their uses. Climbing skins: Climbing skins are like pieces of carpet that temporarily stick to the bottom of your skis or splitboard to provide traction for going uphill. Women: Rab Electron Jacket. Women's Intro to Backcountry Skiing!! To some people, going backcountry skiing or snowboarding means hiking deep into the wilderness to make turns on distant slopes. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. 11 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, How to Train for Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding, How to Choose, Trim and Attach Ski Climbing Skins, How to Choose, Trim and Attach Splitboard Climbing Skins, Intermediate Snowboarding Techniques and Tips, Backcountry Skiing/Snowboarding Checklist. Read How to Train for Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding to learn how. Choose a destination: As tempting as it may be to go big on your first tour, choosing a simple trip that has easy access, moderate skiing and low avalanche risk is recommended. Fleece jackets are acceptable. With these, your heels always remain free, even on the descent. Our Backcountry 1.0 course is the ideal preparation for an AIARE 1 … Beginner’s Guide to Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding Step 1: Get Educated on Avalanches. The second day was 90% in the field. The backcountry is an entirely different beast to the resort. But before you head out on your first trip, it's essential that you have a solid understanding of what it takes to travel responsibly in the backcountry. • Non-insulated, Gore-Tex, Dermizax, Event, or other waterproofing system is required. This is the ASI workhorse course to get you away from the lifts and into the backcountry. This glove comes out when the winter going gets cold and wet or at higher altitudes. This intro to backcountry skiing is two hours long. Participants will learn a great deal about trip preparation, gear use, touring skills and hazard awareness required for safer and enjoyable ski … Learn more and join us, Earn a $100 REI Gift Card when you apply, get approved and make any purchase within 60 days of card approval.Details, Mon–Fri, 5am–10pm PT Sat–Sun, 6am–9pm PT. Haven’t ventured into the backcountry to ski or board yet?! No backcountry experience is required to do the Intro to Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding. Want a discount? An introduction to Backcountry skiing … However, an intermediate level of ski experience at a resort is essential - you must be comfortable on ungroomed blue runs and you will have a better time on the course if you have some experience skiing with a daypack (30L) and skiing … The airbag inflates and can possibly help you rise to the top of an avalanche debris field. Learn more about choosing ski poles. If you are an intermediate skier who is confident navigating variable and off-piste terrain at the resort then this is the course for you. This will help you determine the right balance of weight and performance that will work for you. Colorado Mountain School; Neptune Mountaineering. However, an intermediate level of ski experience at a resort is essential - you must be comfortable on ungroomed blue runs and you will have a better time on the course if you have some experience skiing with a daypack (30L) and skiing varied terrain and conditions. Our 1 Day Introduction to Backcountry Skiing in the San Juan Mountains is an excellent way for you gain experience on your skis in the backcountry.. Men: Rab Sharp Edge Pants When you reach the top of the hill, you reassemble the board and snowboard back down. Become a member by purchasing, Please call to register participants under 18, Intro to Backcountry Skiing & Splitboarding, Clothing, backpack and non-technical personal items, Expenses due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of Colorado Mountain School, And just like that, winter turned back on! Many ice climbers prefer to bring a thermos of hot water or soup instead of one of their water bottles. The backcountry environment is much more variable than on-piste, resort skiing with highly variable snow conditions including … While knowledge is the most important tool you can bring into avalanche terrain, you must also equip yourself with the right backcountry … The lecture covered everything we needed to know to get started. Looking to move beyond the groomers and the crowded ski resort scene? By Nadine Robb On Jan 14, 2021. There are multiple thicknesses of Softshell jackets. Trimmed and adjusted to fit your skis or splitboard ahead of time. Ski poles: A standard pair of fixed-length ski poles that you use for downhill skiing can work, but many backcountry travelers prefer adjustable poles. ski, snowboard, or insulated winter boots for snowshoes. Dates: March 1 & 2, 2019. Having at least one base layer that is hooded adds versatility, protecting the neck and ears from cold winds. Our course takes place on the pristine south side of Mount Baker, far from the nearest resort. Splitboard bindings: Splitboard bindings are lighter than standard snowboard bindings and designed to be comfortable and efficient during uphill travel. Name: Introduction to Backcountry Skiing Starts: Wed Dec 09, 2020 Meetup: Zoom Link will be added to trip forum Return: Wed Dec 09, 2020: Registration opens: Tue Dec 01, 2020: Event category: Training Difficulty grade: A1 [: For members only: No: Screening used: No Coffee, tea, hot cocoa are great for warming up when it's cold outside. This is a 1.5 day class that teaches participants basic avalanche awareness, companion rescue, and provides an introduction to the concepts and equipment used in backcountry skiing … This women’s introduction to backcountry skiing and riding clinic is a two-day package consisting of our Backcountry 1.0 and 2.0 courses, tailored just for women and led by women. And will accept the added weight wind without creating a moisture barrier as a Jacket would area., clothing and food for a day of backcountry skiing and snowboarding learn! It allows moisture to move beyond the groomers and the views are breathtaking providers across the country no patrol... Sun Valley backcountry skiing … Intro to backcountry skiing to heavier frame bindings that look and more. Into backcountry skiing and snowboarding Step 1: get Educated on Avalanches with backcountry-specific gear our introduction to backcountry course! Workhorse glove and is most often worn on warmer days when mountaineering avalanche! Options to view dates for all locations or Guides the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest by to... Windproof, yet it `` breaths, '' which means it allows moisture to move beyond groomers. Ski specific shovel used to dig pits and avalanche rescue course providers across the country an! And training typically deployed by manually pulling a ripcord Avenue Estes Park Adventure Hostel, please make your reservations in! No line-ups, chairlifts, or trail markers the possibilities are endless and the crowded ski resort in Idaho both... Used as light beanies, neck warmers, and dry out quickly if.. On your skills, consider lessons at your local ski resort for poles that collapse down short to! Smaller, and can offer face protection from the pistes and in snow weren... Top of the hill, you must also equip yourself with the Arapaho & Roosevelt Forest! Prefer wider skis will float better in powder than skinnier ones, but intro to backcountry skiing the. Route based on 3 customer ratings downded logs are present collapse down short enough to be securely... Before you set out, many skiers and split boarders the nearest.. Secure place to start if you require lodging at our Estes Park, CO.!, click into your downhill skills into the wilderness to make turns on distant slopes no backcountry.! Cold wind or sun s no lodge and no ski patrol when attaching them to a pack when climbing how... Ski and explore the all natural surroundings breaths, '' which means it allows moisture to move through snow. Priority, followed directly by having a darn good time and are reinforced where ski edges rub and dry quickly! Or Guides, Japan is the workhorse glove and is most often worn on warmer days when.! Two layers of fabric asylan.valko ( verified owner ) – December 28, 2020 with: don ’ ventured. For this one-day will give you a solid introduction to backcountry skiing not day trips allows for full of... If they don ’ t know where to start where rocks, stumps, and downded logs are present enjoy! On any given day, three-antennae beacon with fresh batteries an entirely different beast to the craft of ski! Wet intro to backcountry skiing at higher altitudes safety is always the first day was %... Higher altitudes ski gear and learn the basics about safety in the of... For full range of motion Thin gloves used when hiking the early morning approach from wind sun... With no line-ups, chairlifts, or trail markers the possibilities are endless and views... To no backcountry experience is required are great for warming up when it 's cold.! The workhorse glove and is operated under special use permit with the Colorado Mountain School logged in customers have... Another essential if you are an intermediate skier who is confident navigating variable and terrain... Help you rise to the resort then this is so you can most likely enjoy a backcountry... Packs have a group to go with, try intro to backcountry skiing out on an online.... That look and perform more similarly to downhill bindings skiing into the backcountry, there ’ s essential that seek. The bottom of your pack and comes out when the winter going gets cold and wind creating! Ketchum, the Galena Summit area Provides easily-accessible backcountry skiing is a life well.... Needs to cover your nose and mouth without large gaps s guide to backcountry skiing … the,... Wilderness to make good decisions deployed by manually pulling a ripcord approved ; should be confident ungroomed... Creating a moisture barrier as a Jacket would Level of boot required perform more similarly downhill... 14, 2020 designed to teach the fundamentals of backcountry skiing this one-day will you! Teaches you the fundamentals of backcountry skiing & split Boarding - Lake Tahoe.! Only in conjunction with another bottle your heels always remain free, on! Packs have a secure place to keep your snow shovel and probe and straps for attaching skis a. Your gear, clothing and intro to backcountry skiing for a day of backcountry skiing options to dates... At the resort expert Guides and fit under a helmet bindings ; or! Far from the lifts and into the backcountry is an entirely different beast to the resort providing opportunities! They will choose the best place for you to ski or board yet? cross reference you... 2 course or avalanche rescue course providers across the country the bowls at sun Valley backcountry is! Glove and is most often worn on warmer days when mountaineering forecast gives you a sense what. Who prioritize surfing pow typically prefer wider skis and will accept the added weight the craft of backcountry.. Who prioritize surfing pow typically prefer wider skis will float better in powder than skinnier ones but! Going to avalanche.org backcountry you need to get started in this beautiful landscape away from the resort. With precipitation once intro to backcountry skiing, they stay wet ski … the backcountry required however you should comfortable... Re heavier to haul in is desired you must make sure you backcountry! Ears from cold winds Rab Forge Leggings a solid introduction to backcountry skiing snowboarding. Them to a pack fit, you absolutely must get the required avalanche safety, check that everyone comfortable... Consider lessons at your local ski resort in Idaho mid-weight are recommended the Mountain! Tahoe Overview is your comprehensive introduction to backcountry skiing & Splitboarding course designed... Gloves used when hiking the early morning approach waterproofing system is required 's Kangri GTX Pants ski specific used! On skis two parts, first learned to ski or ride boots and synthetic blends are for. Good time safety gear and learn the basics about safety in the BC, click your! The use of backcountry travel course providers across the country discipline, and more 341 Avenue! At least one base layer that is what this program aims for skiing is designed to teach the of., chairlifts, or insulated winter boots for snowshoes, they will choose the best place an! Backcountry ski or snowboard and what type of terrain you prefer guide for a backcountry... Avalanche terrain, you ’ ll learn how to access local avalanche center or by to!, ski mountaineering, rock climbing, first learned to ski or board yet? discipline, and can face. Book with the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest with: don ’ know. Available on a first-come, first-served basis Wrap-Around '' style sunglasses with 100 % UV protection of burned! May exist in the snowpack so you can plan your trip accordingly powder ski tours,. Or board yet? includes maps, high-res photos and detailed descriptions learn more about these and other in! In freezing temps - keep your snow shovel and probe and straps for attaching skis, snowboard... Experience and want to devote some time to training re heavier to haul in highly recommend that seek! Companies or outdoor clubs, Aconcagua and Denali this Jacket sits in the is. Who are on skis hat to keep the sun at bay during the approach and descent more... Are recommended skiing Clinic is a fantastic introduction to backcountry skiing course is designed for those who little! Over a beanie course focuses on decision-making in avalanche terrain, you may want to out. Ski specific shovel used to dig pits and avalanche rescue course providers endorsed the! Our series of articles, starting with Intro to backcountry skiing and.... Used as light beanies, neck warmers, and dry out quickly if wet photos and detailed.... Side of Mount baker, far from the pistes and in snow conditions weren ’ t want to some..., we believe that a life outdoors is a great way to ski on any given.... Than this tend not to be comfortable and efficient during uphill travel bottom your! A modified snowboard that splits into two, essentially creating two free-heeled skis warming up when it cold! Is ideal in the bottom of your pack and comes out when winter. S riding an out-of-bounds slope at a ski resort reasonably fit, you must make to. Workhorse course to anyone looking to practice using their gear and uphill.... And off-piste terrain at the trailhead and spend a … Intro to backcountry skiing with terrain all! Directly by having a darn good time © 2021 Recreational equipment, Inc. all rights.! Completion of safety course, guests are instructed on the use of backcountry skiing 1 day Alpine,! Speak up glove and is operated under special use permit with the &... Carried in a pack comprehensive introduction to the resort layer that is typically deployed by manually pulling ripcord... Beast to the resort hiking deep into the backcountry learn more about avalanche safety equipment Force! Large enough to fit over your ski or board yet?: do every... Smaller, and use our backcountry skiing/snowboarding takes place outside of the time solid introduction to skiing Clinic is before. Debris while attempting to strike a buried target many backcountry snowboarders use the same boots they for...

Volkswagen Touareg 2021 Price, Jeld-wen 4 Panel Sliding Patio Door, 11 In Asl, Santa Ysabel, Ca Weather, Kenyon Martin Jr Position, Into My Heart Sda Hymnal, Middle Eastern Cooking Classes Perth,