Ski Mountaineering Unleashed: Mastering the Basics - 1 day

Prepare for an exhilarating fusion of backcountry skiing and mountaineering that transcends boundaries. Learn the fundamental skills and techniques of ski mountaineering.

Skills-based course for those looking to take the next step. 

Course highlights

• Tools: learn about the tools (ax, crampons, rope) used in mountaineers and how they work with your skiing to be in the more challenging terrain 

• Transitions: understand how transitions are more important than on less advanced terrain, and the awareness of such is important

• Rope: Discuss and learn basics of rope skills to be used while traveling both on skis and on your feet. 

• Avalanche awareness: discuss how the more advanced terrain of ski mountaineers will put you into potential avalanche terrain and how you need to be aware of what that means for you and your party. 

Gear Notes

Technical gear such as crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and ropes will be used for this course. Synnott Mountain Guides will provide ropes and other protection/anchor equipment, but participants are encouraged to bring their own crampons, ice axes, and harnesses (w/ a belay device and a couple of locking carabiners). Please let us know when registering if you don't have and need this equipment.

Ability Level

Participants looking to take this course should have previous backcountry skiing/snowboarding experience and feel comfortable making controlled turns on steep and/or gladed terrain in variable conditions. You should feel comfortable being outside in the mountains for 6-8 hours with enough physical ability to travel uphill with a pack for 4+ miles (with enough energy leftover for downhill travel and possibly checking out multiple locations).

Avalanche Safety Equipment

This course may travel in or approach avalanche terrain, and avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel) is required for participation. Ready to take your backcountry skiing to the next level? Crampons, Harnesses, Ropes, Axes… The potential of different terrains is endless. It’s just knowing how to access it. Is your heart pumping yet?

Prerequisites

Advanced resort skier/rider, very comfortable on black diamonds in varying conditions. Minimum of one or two seasons of backcountry experience. Experience with an avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel.