Backcountry Skiing – Intro

At the intro level, this course is aimed at developing the skills and techniques associated with uphill and downhill travel on alpine touring and telemark gear.

Students Will Learn: 

• Introduction to touring equipment

• Skinning techniques and transitions

• Route selection and terrain awareness

• Basic navigation and track setting

• Group management and travel protocols

• Intro to avalanche safety concepts

Prerequisites

• Intermediate level in-bounds skiing abilities being able to successfully and confidently ski blue runs at ski areas.
• Have good physical fitness, including being able to hike for multiple hours with a 20 – 35lb backpack with minimal breaks.
• Be able to dress appropriately for being outside in snowy, winter conditions, and be outside for a full day.
• Be able to maintain your personal nutrition and hydration needs throughout the day (you may not have an official break for lunch – these are often done “on the go” – so you need to be able to manage your personal needs in this regard).

​Avalanche Gear

The AAI Equipment Shop rents avalanche gear, including beacons, probes, and shovels.  They also have backcountry skis and boots for rent.  We also carry packs and ski poles for rent.  See AAI rental pricing sheet.

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Winter Backcountry Skills Part 1

Take your skiing beyond the resort with our Winter Backcountry Skills combo, which includes our Backcountry Skiing – Intro, AIARE Avalanche Level 1, and AIARE Rescue courses at a discounted price.

This comprehensive package is the most efficient and cost-effective way to gain all the skills you need to tour with confidence.  You’ll learn how to use your touring gear, understand avalanche terrain, and practice real rescue techniques. Instead of piecing courses together one by one, you’ll get a streamlined learning progression that saves you time, money, and sets you up for years of safer, more rewarding backcountry travel.

Check out the upcoming dates and secure your spot on the course page.