Introduction to Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding

Untracked snow, no lift lines, and a fun, safe day with friends are what we’re looking for in backcountry skiing. This class will introduce you to the fundamentals of the sport. We will begin in the classroom, covering trip preparations and avalanche safety concepts, continuing into the field. The field time will take us into the backcountry for a couple of laps up and down the mountain to get comfortable with the equipment and participate in an avalanche rescue demonstration.

 

Participants should ski or snowboard at an intermediate level in variable conditions and be comfortable with moderate to strenuous exercise. All participants must be 16 or older.

No equipment? No problem. Outdoor Pursuits has a full line of backcountry ski and snowboard equipment available for rent.

Be prepared for Idaho's winter/spring weather. Bring snacks and water, sunglasses or goggles, warm hat, fleece or wool base layers, water and windproof outer layer jacket and pants, gloves, and anything else you may need to stay warm in the chilly snow and wind. Please contact Outdoor Pursuits at terry.brinton@nic.edu or call (208) 769-5941 for any questions about the classes.

Classes that include an outdoor component will meet in the Outdoor Center on the south side of McLain Hall and travel into the Idaho backcountry from there.