Backcountry Skills Course

Format

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

• You will receive an online learning module to complete prior to the field session.
• This one-hour session introduces the foundational concepts we will review and practice during the on-snow component.

Field Session

• Saturday, December 27, 2025
• Lolo Pass Backcountry | 8:30 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: 16+ (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!