Backcountry Lessons

Ready to try backcountry skiing or splitboarding? Backcountry 1 is the place to start. This welcoming, beginner-friendly, on-snow course is geared toward never-evers and folks who have only clicked into their bindings in the backcountry a handful of times. This is a half-day lesson — perfect for anyone who’s ready to jump in and learn the basics. No experience required. Equipment rentals available.

Take your touring skills to the next level in Backcountry 2! This all-day, on-snow lesson is geared toward skiers and splitboarders who are looking to improve their movement on snow and transitions. A Backcountry 1 Lesson or equivalent experience (comfortable skinning with touring equipment) is recommended. Equipment rentals available.

Culminating with an on-snow treasure hunt, Backcountry 3 might be the most fun way to learn in the universe. Put your navigation skills to use ​​and learn everything you need to know to be prepared for formal avalanche training. This lesson includes an hour-long video and assignment focusing on how to use navigation tools and plan for the day (to be completed online at your own pace before your lesson). The field portion of the lesson is all day and includes navigation practice and materials that will get you ready for your AIARE 1. Backcountry 1 and 2 Lessons or equivalent experience (comfort with your backcountry equipment and ability to transition and move on snow efficiently) is recommended. Equipment rentals available.

Understanding how to read terrain, interpret avalanche hazards and danger ratings, and build a solid plan for the day are three critical skills to learn as you build your backcountry touring experience. This all-day advanced course is the next step for those who have taken AIARE 1 and allows you to practice — and get feedback on — what you learned in your avalanche training. In this course, we review various components of reading terrain: using navigational tools for route planning and travel; aligning risk management, avalanche problems, and the plan for the day; and building a stronger understanding of how to efficiently travel in and around avalanche terrain.

Choose your own adventure with a private lesson! Show up solo or with a group (up to six people total per lesson), then hit the skintrack with one of our expert instructors for the day. No experience necessary. Equipment rentals available.

Sometimes the best learning happens outside of the classroom. Spend your afternoon touring with one of our instructors and get all of your lingering questions answered. This informal two-hour tour is a perfect way to practice your skills or build them up with an experienced mentor in a positive environment. The Ski with a Mentor program is ideal for those who took a Backcountry 1 Lesson in the morning, or for anyone riding solo or with friends and looking for mentorship. Free all season for Bluebird+ or Advanced+ Members!