Whether you’re looking to exit out of the gates at the local resort or just seeking to expand your available ski opportunities, this course is an ideal place to start.
This 2‑day course is designed to be a comprehensive introduction to backcountry skiing and splitboarding. We will combine fundamental skills instruction with great moderate powder skiing at areas around Steven’s/Blewett Pass, Mt Rainier, and Snoqualmie Pass, hopefully creating an experience that has you yearning for more.
Topics will include, developing a tour plan, selecting appropriate terrain for uphill and downhill travel, and applying appropriate travel techniques while searching out untouched powder stashes. This course allows time to get in-depth, covering the basics as well as some more complex subjects like managing complex terrain, identifying “decision points,” powder skiing technique, and rescue scenarios. Participants will be given an active role, to have a chance to test their judgment while under the instructor’s guidance. And of course, plenty of turns will be had by all!
This is an introductory course with no specific backcountry skiing experience required. A Level 1 avalanche course and intermediate ski skills are recommended. It is open for telemark and alpine touring skiers, as well as snowboarders.
This course involves the following:
Course Curriculum:
A complete clothing and equipment list specific to your trip will be sent to you in a pre-departure packet upon registration. Every year Mountain Madness reviews our lists and assess feedback from our clients and guides for updating these lists, giving you the most complete and up-to-date guidelines. Feel free to call us if you have questions or need help locating any of the items on the list. For a successful trip, it is extremely important that you adhere strictly to the equipment list.
Prior to departing on your trip, Mountain Madness staff will contact you to discuss the particulars of your course or climb. This typically happens about 10 days out. At this time you can review the equipment you have selected. Before purchasing any equipment, you are welcome to call us and ask for recommendations. We know that selecting the right gear can be a challenge and we are happy to help.
If you are interested in rentals, please feel free to contact the evo Seattle store to inquire about items and availability (your package includes 10% off rentals).
Please fill out the traveler form below and proceed to checkout.
Alternatively, if you’d prefer to pay a deposit now to hold your spot ({{ trip.DepositAmount | numeralCurrency }} per traveler) and pay the remainder later,
please contact Customer Care