VOC Intro to Backcountry Touring

Confident intermediate skiing/riding ability or better. No backcountry experience is required, though participants should be in good physical condition and be comfortable skiing in a variety of snow conditions.

This course is designed for everyone who wants to start exploring the backcountry and build a foundation of proper skills first.

You will spend a full day on the snow in the backcountry learning everything from gear use, safety practices, route finding, avalanche safety basics, backcountry ethics, and more with our local ski guides/instructors!

Here are some of the basic objectives of the day (in addition to seeking out the best skiing possible!):

• • Gear selection and use. We understand that this may be your first experience using backcountry touring skis or split-boards and we are there to help you learn all the tricks and techniques to get the best out of your equipment!
  • Avalanche safety –  this is not an Avalanche course, but you will review the basics throughout the day.
  • Practice of avalanche response including use of transceivers, probes, shovels.
  • Fine tuning ski touring techniques – tips and tricks to help you out during your day with us, and for your future adventures
  • Understanding of route finding, map use, terrain management
  • Track setting, uphill route choice and group management
  • Downhill line selection, skier management, etc
  • Situational awareness, pacing, time management, etc
  • Backcountry ethics and the difference between resort skiing and backcountry skiing
  • Emergency response communications
  • Good turns!

Get yourself prepared to head out and see why the backcountry is the place to be this winter!

Waiver & Medical Disclosure Forms
Participants on Canada West Mountain School programs must complete the following:

• Canada West Mountain School Waiver form

Cancellation & Transfer policy
Review the CWMS cancellation and transfer policy:

• Canada West Mountain School Refund/Transfer Policy