Splitboarding Beginnings: Discovering the White Mountains' Backcountry
Dive into the exciting world of backcountry splitboarding in the White Mountains! This course is tailored for snowboarders eager to transition from resort riding to exploring the vast backcountry terrain. Get ready for an adventure that combines skill-building with the exploration of some of the Northeast's finest landscapes.
Who Should Attend:
This course is designed for those new to the backcountry scene but experienced in resort snowboarding. If you're looking to step beyond the groomed trails and discover the thrills of splitboarding, this is your perfect starting point.
Course Highlights:
Orientation and Gear Check: Your day commences with an orientation and thorough gear check. We'll ensure you're well-prepared for the adventure ahead. Learn the ins and outs of splitboarding equipment and the proper way to attach your skins.
Safety First: Before embarking on our journey, we'll prioritize safety by reviewing the latest updates from the Mount Washington Avalanche Center avalanche advisory and the Mount Washington Observatory forecast. Safety is paramount.
Varied Locations: The course location will be selected based on weather, snow, avalanche conditions, group skill level, and guide judgment. Potential destinations include picturesque backcountry ski trails and glades like the Doublehead Ski Trail, Maple Villa Glade, Crescent Ridge Glade, and Baldface. In certain conditions, we may explore iconic routes like Sherburne Trail and areas of Tuckerman Ravine or the Gulf of Slides Trail on Mt. Washington. Local resort skiing could also be an option.
This course promises an enriching experience in glade skiing, allowing you to master the intricacies of backcountry terrain while surrounded by the serene beauty of the White Mountains.
Skill Development:
Throughout the day, our experienced guides will delve into crucial topics, including:
Safe route finding and navigation
Identifying and understanding avalanche terrain and hazards
Assessing snow stability
Mastering skinning techniques and improving downhill riding
Staying comfortable in winter mountain conditions
Location:
Our course location will be determined based on weather, snow, and avalanche conditions, as well as the group's ability level and guide judgment. Possibilities include:
Sherburne Trail (possibly into lower angle areas of Tuckerman Ravine) on Mt. Washington
Gulf of Slides Trail (possibly into lower angle areas of the Gulf of Slides) on Mt. Washington
various backcountry ski trails and glades in the Mount Washington Valley, such as the Black Mountain Ski Trail, Doublehead Ski Trail, Maple Villa Glade
Ability Level
While this is an intro backcountry course, it's not an introduction to snowboarding. Participants looking to take this course should have previous resort riding experience and feel comfortable on blue squares in the Northeast. You should feel comfortable being outside in the mountains for 6+ hours with enough physical ability to travel uphill with a pack for 2-3 miles (with enough energy leftover for downhill travel).
Prerequisites
Comfortable riding blue squares in varying conditions at the resorts.