Curriculum

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

Details

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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Course Options

Ski Mountaineering and Avalanche Leadership Part 1 (SMALP 1)

We offer a combo course of our Intro to Backcountry Skiing, AIARE Avalanche Level 1, and AIARE Rescue.  It’s the most well-rounded and cost-effective way to build the skills you need to confidently venture into the backcountry.  To view the available dates, please visit the webpage.