Backcountry Skills Course

Format

• Evening Online Classroom Session: Learn from the comfort of home.
• One Full-Day Field Component: Hands-on practice in the backcountry.
• Student-to-Instructor Field Ratio: 6:1 for personalized instruction.
• Maximum Class Size: 12 participants

Date | Location | Time

Online Classroom Session
Thursday, December 18, 2025 | 6–8 PM MT

Field Session
Saturday, December 20, 2025
Lolo Pass Backcountry | 8 AM–5 PM MT

Course Description

Set yourself up for success this winter with our Backcountry Skills Course! This course is ideal for newcomers to backcountry touring and focuses on the foundational skills needed for safe, enjoyable winter travel. It’s also the perfect stepping stone before enrolling in a Level 1 Avalanche Course.

What You’ll Learn

• Avalanche awareness principles to help recognize and avoid hazards
• Backcountry gear essentials, including the use of touring boots, bindings, and skins
• Techniques for efficient uphill and downhill travel and transitions
• Companion rescue techniques with hands-on practice
• Navigation strategies for safe and effective route planning

Prerequisites

• Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced downhill skiing or snowboarding ability
• Age Requirement: 14+ (minors must be accompanied by someone with driving capability for field sessions)
• Fitness Level: Ability to ascend slopes with skis, skins, or a splitboard while carrying a daypack
• Weather Preparedness: Must be equipped to spend a full day outdoors in cold, variable conditions

Required Equipment

• Avalanche Rescue Gear: Beacon, shovel, and probe (available to borrow upon request — contact us for details)
• Touring Gear: Alpine touring skis or splitboard with climbing skins (rental options available in Missoula)
• Note: Snowshoes are not permitted for this course

Registration

Register now to secure your place in this comprehensive introductory course. Space is limited and fills quickly!