Intro To Ski & Splitboard Mountaineering – Breckenridge/Vail CO
$435
Location -
Dates
April 7, 2022 - April 10, 2022
Overview
This course is for the backcountry skier or splitboarder who wants to expand her horizons. It is for women who are already backcountry riders and want to increase their knowledge of avalanche safety, ski more adventurous lines, and learn basic mountaineering skills. The weekend course covers the basics of snow condition analysis, route-finding, how and when to use boot crampons, and self-arrest techniques with an ice axe. We’ll demonstrate basic mountaineering skills such as rope work, building snow anchors, and belaying and practice these skills as well as discuss how to properly plan for a trip. The second day we will attempt a ski mountaineering objective and have fun throughout.
Join this course and learn the skills you need to start ski and splitboard mountaineering in an encouraging and supportive atmosphere.
Duration: 2 Field Days
Activity Level: Moderate
Required Skill Level: Proficient rider on ungroomed black diamond terrain. Some avalanche safety training such as an Avalanche Level 1 or Rescue Course is encouraged, but not required. Having a good fitness level is essential with the ability to exercise at 9,000+ ft. and handle inclement winter weather.
Course Dates:
April 9-10th. 9am – 3pm on the first day, 7am – 2pm on the 2nd day, timing depending on conditions. We plan to include an evening meeting online on Thursday April 7th to get everyone on the same page before our field days.
About the Course
Online Evening Session Pre Trip: Learn ski mountaineering techniques, introduction to gear, avalanche and snow conditions review, route selection, and trip planning. Snow School: On our first morning we’ll head outside for a practicum of skills. Practice self arrest skills, boot packing, and how to use crampons, and earn some turns!
Ski Mountaineering Tour: We’ll start touring early in the morning to maximize our time and quality snow conditions. Today will be all about working as a group and learning and practicing skills along the way to our mountaineering objective. The afternoon will be spent riding and continuing to practice skills and we’ll save time at the end of the day to review the course, answer questions and share next steps and recommendations.
What to Expect
- Supportive and fun learning atmosphere with professional instructors/guides
- Gain knowledge of basic mountaineering skills
- Learn techniques, skills, and gear needed for ski & splitboard mountaineering
- Plan and execute a backcountry tour/mountaineering attempt
- A great adventure with other woman looking to expand their skills!
Gear Needed
- Skis or splitboard, ski/snowboard boots, ski poles
- Climbing skins
- Ski helmet
- Avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel
- Backcountry backpack
- Ice axe and crampons-that fit ski boots
- Warm clothing for mountain weather
- We recommend Mountain Outfitters in Breckenridge if you need to rent any gear
Field Time
Classroom Time
Getting There
Our exact field location will depend on Spring Conditions. Our field time will take place in one of our permitted areas in Breckenridge, Loveland Pass, Hoosier Pass or Vail Pass.
Backcountry Babes is an equal opportunity service provider and employer. Backcountry Babes operates under special use permit from the USDA Forest Service, White River National Forest Ranger District and Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District.
