Backcountry Skiing Fundamentals: A Small Group Introductory Course334

This course is designed as an introduction to backcountry skiing for a small group (maximum 6 participants) of beginners. The focus will be on safety, fundamental skills, and building confidence in a controlled environment. Participants should have prior experience skiing on groomed runs and be reasonably fit. This is not a course for expert skiers; it's specifically designed for those looking to transition to the backcountry responsibly.

Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Identify and assess avalanche hazards using basic observation techniques.
Understand and apply basic avalanche safety procedures, including companion rescue techniques.
Demonstrate proper backcountry skiing techniques, including uphill travel, downhill control, and efficient transitions.
Use and maintain essential backcountry skiing equipment.
Plan and execute a safe backcountry ski trip within their skill level.
Understand Leave No Trace principles and practice responsible backcountry stewardship.

Course Structure: The course will be delivered over two days, combining classroom instruction with practical field sessions. The ratio of instructor to student will be 1:3 to ensure individualized attention and feedback.

Day 1: Classroom and Controlled Practice
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Avalanche Safety & Risk Management This session will cover the fundamentals of avalanche formation, terrain assessment, snowpack observation (using the snowpack test pit), and decision-making in the backcountry. We will discuss the use of avalanche safety equipment including avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels. Participants will practice using their transceivers in a controlled environment – finding a buried beacon in various scenarios.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Provided by the instructor.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Equipment Familiarization and Skinning Techniques This session will focus on the proper use and maintenance of backcountry ski equipment, including skis, bindings, skins, and poles. Participants will learn efficient skinning techniques for uphill travel, focusing on posture, technique and pacing. We'll practice transitioning from uphill to downhill mode.

Day 2: Field Trip & Practice
Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Backcountry Skiing Practice We will conduct a guided backcountry ski tour to a pre-selected location with minimal avalanche risk, focusing on putting the knowledge gained on Day 1 into practice. The instructor will lead the group, teaching proper downhill techniques, and emphasizing controlled speed and safe navigation. We will choose a location suitable for the participants' skill level, prioritizing safety.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Participants will pack their own lunches for this day.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Advanced Techniques and Trip Planning This session will cover more advanced techniques such as self-arrest, efficient transition techniques, and planning multi-day backcountry trips. We will review the day's skiing and discuss strategies for improving technique and decision-making. The session will also cover Leave No Trace principles and responsible backcountry travel.

Required Equipment:
Backcountry skis and bindings (compatible with touring bindings)
Ski skins
Avalanche transceiver
Avalanche probe
Avalanche shovel
Backpack (at least 25 liters)
Layers of warm clothing (including base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers)
Gloves or mittens
Helmet
Goggles or sunglasses
Sunscreen and lip balm
Water bottle or hydration pack
First-aid kit
Appropriate footwear (hiking boots suitable for snow)

Recommended Equipment:
Ski crampons
Ice axe
Emergency shelter
Headlamp or flashlight
Extra food and water

Prerequisites:
Intermediate downhill skiing ability
Reasonable physical fitness
Commitment to safety and teamwork

Safety Note: Backcountry skiing inherently involves risk. This course aims to mitigate that risk through education and training, but it cannot eliminate it entirely. Participants are responsible for their own safety and must be aware of the inherent dangers involved.

Cancellation Policy: [Insert cancellation policy here]

Instructor Bio: [Insert instructor's qualifications and experience here]

2025-04-20

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