introduction to backcountry starting from $950
Step into the world of backcountry skiing and build confidence while exploring new terrain. This introduction offers a perfect balance of adventure and education, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to safely navigate off-piste environments. Learn the essentials, enhance your technique, and get ready to unlock the vast, untouched beauty of the backcountry. Whether you’re new to skiing or looking to expand your abilities, this experience opens the door to a whole new realm of outdoor exploration.
Learn essential navigation and terrain assessment techniques.
Get hands-on experience with avalanche awareness.
Build confidence while tackling varied terrain and conditions.
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts ready to transition into backcountry skiing or splitboarding.
If you don’t see enough availability for your group, give us a call— we can often accommodate larger groups or special requests with flexibility.
What skills will I learn in the Intro to Backcountry course?
Do I need any prior backcountry experience to join this course?
No prior backcountry experience is needed! This course is designed as an introduction, making it accessible to anyone interested in exploring the backcountry. Whether you’re new to skiing entirely or just new to off-piste terrain, our guides will tailor the experience to match your skill level and help you gain confidence in this new environment.
How physically demanding is the Intro to Backcountry course?
The course is designed to be accessible and adaptable to a range of fitness levels. We set a pace that works for you, focusing on skill development rather than speed. If you can comfortably ski on groomed runs and handle light physical activity, you’ll be able to enjoy this experience and learn new techniques.
Why choose Apex Mountain School for your backcountry introduction or beginner experience?
Apex Mountain School’s guides are experienced in working with both first-timers and beginners who are new to the backcountry. We focus on providing a fun, educational outing that’s tailored to your skill level and goals. With deep local knowledge and a commitment to personalized instruction, we ensure that your experience—whether it’s your first time off-piste or you’re looking to build your foundational skills—is memorable, rewarding, and confidence-boosting.
Intro to Backcountry Description
Discover Backcountry Skiing: Your First Steps Into Adventure
Unlock the excitement of backcountry skiing and gain confidence as you leave behind the crowded resort slopes for a more personal, rewarding adventure. This introduction to backcountry skiing course is designed for those eager to explore the quiet, untouched terrain of Colorado’s alpine regions while building the foundational skills needed for future explorations.
Enjoy the serene beauty of snow-covered forests and wide-open slopes as we guide you through a carefully crafted experience at a pace that works for you. Whether you’re completely new to skiing or have experience on the frontside and want to take your skills to the next level, this is the perfect opportunity to step into a new world of skiing.
During this introductory course, we’ll cover important skills and knowledge that will prepare you for more backcountry adventures, including:
- Learning the essential backcountry skiing equipment and how to use it.
- Developing your uphill skinning techniques to improve efficiency.
- Practical instruction on ski touring and navigating varied terrain.
- Insights into backcountry route planning and terrain selection.
This experience is open to individuals, groups, or families ready to explore their first backcountry adventure. Choose from a range of tailored itineraries near Vail, Colorado, and get ready to start your journey into the rewarding world of backcountry skiing.
Quick Information
Course overview:
Enjoy the best powder with an Intro To Backcountry course.
All ages 12 and up
Dates:
Available daily
Duration:
6 – 7 hours
Location:
Leadville, CO (Chalk Creek)
Vail, CO (Meadow Mountain)
San Juan Range
Difficulty:
Easy – Difficult
See our inclusion policy for special group requests.
What you should bring
WHAT TO BRING
Each person in your party will need.
- An AT (Alpine Touring), Telemark, or Splitboarding package.
- Beacon/Probe/Shovel (rental available) No Plastic Shovels Please
- 1-2 water bottles or thermos
- Lunch, and high energy snacks such as nut bars, cookies, chocolate
- Headwear – Visor or Cap, Hat or Helmet, Goggles, Sunglasses
- Balaclava or neck gaiter
- One pair of gloves, one pair of mittens for cold days
- Synthetic or wool base layer
- Mid Weight base layer fleece or sweater
- Puffy Jacket
- Shell Jacket
- Synthetic or wool long johns
- Ski pants with zippered vents OR mid weight fleece layer and shell pants
- Synthetic or wool socks optimum weight for your boot fit
- Sunscreen
- Pack (26-30 Liters) that can accommodate, shovel, probe, skins, 1-2 water bottles or thermos, lunch, snacks, extra clothing when climbing, goggles…
ALSO CONSIDER
- Hand warmers
- Hot liquid
- Gaiters
- Liner socks
- Adjustable Poles
- Small day pack
- Extra gloves
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle insulator
- Camera
Meet our guides
Our guides are dedicated to giving the safest, most fulfilling experience to our clients. With the most AMGA certifications we have the most qualified guides in the area.
What are you waiting for?
