This five-day ski touring course will cover the range of skills, techniques, tools, and equipment necessary to safely get up and ski down a mountain in the backcountry. The course is split into three main objectives: learning the specific technical skills needed to ski in the backcountry, safety and equipment training, and trip planning.
A minimum of 3 participants is necessary to run this trip. In the case there are not enough people, you can use the price of your booking towards another trip, or we can fully refund you for your purchase.
Our technical training begins with moving on touring skis when climbing, including the correct mounting and use of climbing skins. Together we will train how to perform "kick turns" and how to safely traverse and slide down steep slopes. In the evening we will have a couple focused sessions on Off-Piste riding technique.
The course includes both a theoretical lecture on avalanches and practical training in search and rescue. We will demonstrate the proper use of avalanche equipment (avalanche finder, probe, shovel, avalanche backpack…, etc.), and also spend time testing the various equipment in the field. We will discuss the stability of snow layers and show ways to test them, as well as the principles of movement in open terrain. The first aid course, in addition to the basics of resuscitation, focuses specifically on the issues of hypothermia and frostbite.
Evening sessions continue with learning everything you need to know about ski touring equipment and the divisions between racing ski touring, "hobby" and "fitness touring", and "free-ride touring". We will take a closer look at the individual types of ski touring and freeride skis and boots, types of climbing skins, and poles.
Throughout the week we will be discussing the theory of trip planning and its three stages. Finally, using all the technical knowledge and practical skills learned during the week, we will work towards practicing trip planning theory in the field.
Personal ski or snowboard freeride touring equipment including:
This is required gear to attend this course. If you do not own this equipment you are responsible for renting it. If you need help finding rentals please let us know and we can help you locate them.
Self-catering
Accommodation and food are not included in the price of this trip. There are many apartments with kitchens in the area available for rental. There are also many restaurants, bars and cafeterias in the ski resorts and surrounding town. We are happy to recommend options or help you set up an apartment rental if you require it.
