In the morning, we'll cover the basics in a workshop setting, diving into avalanche awareness, understanding snow conditions, and learning essential safety techniques.

In the afternoon, we'll head into the snow, practicing what we've learned in real-world conditions.

This interactive and engaging class is ideal for those looking to safely enjoy skiing, splitboarding, or snowshoeing in the backcountry. It is a great option for those that are not sure if they are ready for a full AIARE course.

Not only will you gain valuable skills, but you'll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded adventurers.

Come, learn, and enjoy the thrill of winter exploration with us!

8:00am - Meet your guide in the field at the designated trailhead & check-in.

8:15am - We’ll perform a gear check and then begin our classroom portion.

11:30 AM - Break for Lunch

12 PM - We’ll move to the snow and start our practical skills application.

3:30 PM Get back to the trailhead. Debrief of the day and discuss strengths, areas for improvement, goals, and next steps for progressing your outdoor skills.

Skills Clinic: minimal wilderness touring, no ski/splitboard touring experience required.

This trip is rated Beginner. Although this is a novice skills day, the participants should have ample hiking experience and good fitness. We will be practicing techniques in the snow all day but with plenty of rest breaks.

We expect to be on the snow near our outdoor classroom for the skills portion so estimate about 1-2 miles of travel over the course of the day.

We recommend that you stay well hydrated and fed prior to departure to assist in mitigating altitude sickness if you are coming from sea level.

Included in your booking:

• Professional AMGA/AIARE Guide

• 4:1 client to guide ratio with a max group size of 8 clients, 2 guides

• Pre-trip handout that includes an overview on the course.

• Snowshoes

• Group safety gear & first aid kit

• Permit fees

• Special discount to shop at the Alpinistas store

Not included:

• Transportation from your hometown to group meeting point

• Trip insurance

• Food & beverages

• Guide gratuities

• Required gear, see in below section (available for rent when checking out)

• Ski / splitboard gear

• Avalanche beacon, probe & shovel

• Personal items

Pre-Trip Preparation Packet

• Overview on mountaineering

• Get to know the gear like crampons & ice axes

• Logistics for the in-person session

On Field Session

• Terrain & hazard observation

• Clear decisioning, communication and mitigating group think

• Using an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel to rescue a companion caught in an avalanche

• Regional avalanche forecasting tools and what they mean

• Before You Go safety in the wilderness concept