Private Backcountry Ski Mentorship including Winter Camping

Location

Salt Lake County, Utah

Group Size

Max 2 people

Duration

3 days

Day 1: Introduction, Basics, and Preparation

• Morning

  • Meeting Point & Gear Check (8:00 AM):
    Meet at the trailhead or a designated location. Conduct a thorough gear check to ensure all participants are prepared for winter camping and backcountry skiing.

    Gear List:

    • Skiing Equipment:
      • Skis with touring bindings or splitboard
      • Ski boots or snowboard boots
      • Climbing skins
      • Ski poles
    • Avalanche Safety Gear:
      • Avalanche transceiver
      • Probe
      • Shovel
    • Winter Camping Gear:
      • WMG can provide at no charge:
        • Four-season tent 
        • Stove and fuel
        • Cookware
        • Emergency bivy sac 
        • Repair kit and duct tape
        • Map, compass, GPS device (or app 
      • Recommended to purchase: (WMG can rent these items if you do not wish to purchase)
        • Sleeping bag rated for winter temperatures 
        • Sleeping pad (insulated)
        • Headlamp with extra batteries
        • Touring backpack (45-60L)
      • WMG can provide with charge, or can mentor you on what to buy:
        • Food for 3 days
      • Things you may already have and need:
        • Warm clothing layers (base, mid, and outer layers)
        • Extra gloves, hat, and socks
        • Insulated water bottles or thermos
      • Personal Essentials:
        • Sunscreen and lip balm
        • Sunglasses or goggles
        • Toiletries and sanitation items

  • Course Introduction:
    Overview of the course objectives and itinerary. Cover fundamental safety principles, group communication, and terrain assessment.

• Afternoon

  • Skinning and Ski Techniques:
    Practice efficient uphill travel, kick turns, and managing climbing skins.
  • Avalanche Safety Basics:
    Introduction to avalanche terrain recognition and decision-making. Practice with transceivers, probes, and shovels.
  • Set Up Camp:
    Ski to the designated camping area, approximately 2–3 miles in moderate terrain. Set up tents and discuss campsite selection and winter camping techniques.

• Evening

  • Dinner and a brief session on weather forecasting, route planning, and map reading.

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Day 2: Advanced Skills and Tour Practice

• Morning

  • Route Planning:
    Plan the day's tour using topographic maps and weather/avalanche forecasts.
  • Skinning and Transition Drills:
    Practice transitioning from uphill to downhill mode efficiently.
  • Terrain Analysis:
    Learn to assess slopes for avalanche risk and safe travel routes.

• Afternoon

  • Snowpack Analysis:
    Dig snow pits and practice evaluating snow stability. Discuss layering, weak points, and temperature gradients.
  • Ski Touring:
    Explore more complex terrain under the guidance of guide. Practice decision-making, navigation, and group management.
  • Return to camp by mid/late-afternoon.
  • Learn how to dig emergency snow shelters.

• Evening

  • Review the day’s activities and prepare for Day 3. Participant will collaboratively plan the route, objectives, and schedule for the following day.

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Day 3: Client-Led Tour

• Morning

  • Participant Leadership:
    The group, led by participant, implements the planned tour, focusing on leadership, navigation, and decision-making.
  • Avalanche Scenarios:
    Instructors introduce scenarios where participants must respond to simulated emergencies.

• Afternoon

  • Continue exploring backcountry terrain, practicing skills learned in Days 1 and 2.

• Return to Trailhead:

  • Ski back to the trailhead, debrief, and evaluate the course.
  • Discuss next steps for continuing education and improving backcountry skills.

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Additional Notes:

• Physical Preparation: Participants should be in good physical condition. Expect to travel 3–6 miles per day with significant elevation changes (2500-4000 vertical feet per day on Day 2 and Day 3).
• Weather Flexibility: The itinerary may shift depending on weather, snowpack conditions, and group needs.
• Optional Items: Camera, small journal, or snacks for sharing during breaks.

This course will ensure participants leave confident in their backcountry touring, avalanche safety, and winter camping skills!