In this 8 hour introduction to ski touring, we will cover the basic fundamental skills needed to enjoy a ski tour.  Proper layering, nutrition, what equipment to bring, downhill and uphill travel techniques will all be demonstrated, discussed and practiced during our intro course. Not only will this course improve your uphill efficiency, but also introduce or reinforce winter outdoor etiquette and principles of environmental stewardship.  Join us for a memorable experience in the backcountry!

$225.00

Pay a 50% deposit per item
intro to backcountry ski touring
Ski Mountaineering

Have questions? Ask one of our guides!

 

(720) 282-9235 | Info@saiguides.com

 

See below for more details

Details

Minimum Eligibility Criteria: Ability to comfortably ski black diamond runs at the ski area, ability to ski uphill for 1,500 vertical feet over several miles

 

Length: 8 hours

 

Maximum Ratio: 6 participants, 1 guide

 

Minimum Age: Under 18 will need written consent from parent/guardian   This course is not an avalanche or avalanche rescue course.  For those skills, it is recommended to participate in a AAA approved avalanche education program.

Curriculum/Itinerary

  • Equipment overview, layering and nutrition
  • Leave No Trace Principles 
  • Equipment management
  • Uphill travel techniques
  • Downhill travel techniques
  • Basic Avalanche Transceiver Search Techniques

Price Includes

Does Include:

  • AMGA Trained/Certified Guide/Instructor
  • Group Climbing Equipment
  • Ropes
    • Technical Hardware – carabiners, protection, belay device, etc
    • Technical Softgoods – slings, cordelette, anchor rope, etc
  • Personal Climbing Equipment
  • Climbing Shoes
  • Helmet
  • Harness

Does Not Include:

  • Food
  • Transportation
  • Lodging
  • Trip/cancellation Insurance
  • Non-technical Personal Items – clothing, pack, sunglasses, etc
  • Rescue Insurance
  • Park Entrance Fees (if applicable)
  • Guide Gratuity
  • Unforeseen costs incurred outside of the control of SAI

Equipment List

Clothing   Bottom

  • Midweight synthetic bottom
  • Synthetic underwear
  • Midweight softshell or hardshell pants

Top

  • Lightweight longsleeve top
  • Midweight longsleeve top – with hood recommended
  • Sports Bra
  • Midweight softshell Jacket with hood
  • Non-insulated waterproof shell jacket with hood – should fit over your softshell jacket 
  • Down or synthetic heavyweight insulated puffy jacket – should fit over the outside of all your layers

Head

  • Wool or synthetic beanie
  • Buff or Balaclava
  • Face Mask (PPE) – n95 or similar
  • Sunglasses – full sun protection with 100% UV protection 
  • Ski Goggles

Hands

  • 2 pairs of mid or heavyweight water resistant ski gloves – with a leather palm

Feet

  • 1 pair wool or synthetic mid-weight socks – ski socks are great
  • Touring specific ski boots with a ski/walk mechanism
    • E.X. Scarpa Mastraele

Technical Equipment 

  • Skis: 90-110mm underfoot with touring bindings (compatible with your boots) – 
  • Adjustable length ski poles
  • Ski Helmet
  • Modern, 3 antenna avalanche transceiver
  • Avalanche probe – 280cm or longer
  • Avalanche shovel
  • (optional) snow saw

*Ski equipment can be rented from Bent Gate Mountaineering in Golden, CO   Food

  • 2L of water or hot drink/water combo
  • 1500-2000 calories of food – energy bars, pre-made sandwiches, fruits, etc

Personal

  • Backpack – 30-35L: Ski specific with designated avalanche tools pocket
  • 2L of water carrying capacity total.  1 water bottle and 1 thermos is great
  • Lip balm
  • Sunscreen
  • Smartphone