Introduction to Backcountry Skiing

The San Juan Mountains host some of the finest backcountry terrain in Colorado. Coal Bank, Molas, and Red Mountain passes allow us to access the best ski tours at, and above, 10,000 feet where pristine powder skiing is just waiting to be had. Our Introduction to Backcountry Skiing Course is an excellent way for you to become knowlegdeable about the growing sport of backcountry ski touring. Many skiers are either intimidated by backcountry skiing or don't feel they possess the necessary skills to undertake a ski tour in the mountains. Enrolling in and completing our course will help you to gain confidence in your skills as a backcountry skier, and ensure that you are aware of all the techniques and tools required to pull off a successful tour in the backcountry. We will cover the latest techniques in all aspects of backcountry travel including, but not limited to the following topics:

• Avalanche Awareness
• Trip and Tour planning
• Avalanche Beacon Use
• Route-finding and planning
• Team travel protocol
• Essential Backcountry Equipment
• Ascension Techniques
• Powder snow skiing techniques

Come and join us for a truly unforgettable course that will impress upon you just how incredibly fun it is to be out in the wilderness on your skis!

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Meet at the SWA guides office at 8:00 am for gear checks. We then drive to Coal Bank pass to begin the day's instruction focusing on the topics listed above. We'll return in the early afternoon for a trip and tour planning classroom session to plan out the following days tour.

Day 2: Full day ski tour near Silverton/Red Mountain pass. Participants will be expected to carry out the tour and make terrain decisions along the way, with the instructor/guide providing leadership and feedback where necessary.

Additional Information

Prerequisites: Participants should feel competent and comfortable on "Blue" rated runs at ski resorts. Participants should also be in excellent physical condition. We recommend that participants arrive in Durango at least 1 full day prior to travelling with us in the San Juan high country.

Trip Cost Includes: Guiding and instruction. Avalanche probe, shovel, and beacon, boots, skis, and climbing skins are available for rent from our shop for an additional cost.

Not Included: Hotel costs before, during or after the courses. 3% land use surcharge, trip cancellation insurance, personal climbing, skiing, or camping equipment, or gratuities.

Registration and Cancellation: You will need to fill out our Domestic Registration Form, cancellation policy agreement, and liability waiver, and send it to us with a 50% deposit as early as possible prior to the trip date. Balance is due on the first day of the course. Please click on our Registration/Travel link to access the required forms.