Intro to Backcountry Ski & Splitboarding

This is a fun and educational day in the backcountry adjacent to Whistler Blackcomb. Among the many skills to which you will be introduced are basic avalanche rescue, terrain analysis, track setting, uphill and downhill skiing technique, route finding, tree skiing and trip planning. We spend a full day skiing and riding while covering uphill and downhill travel, equipment use and safety awareness.
With no previous experience or training required, this first step will show you what exists beyond the resort. Our team will share their passion over a day focused on safety and fun.

Important Information

• Avalanche safety equipment is not included (transceiver, shovel, probe)
• Touring skis/splitboard required.
• Geared for skiers and snowboarders who are ready to step beyond the resort but have little or no backcountry experience. For those with previous backcountry experience we recommend booking Whistler Backcountry Ski & Splitboard Tour.
• Participants must be comfortable and confident in intermediate terrain [blue runs] in a variety of snow conditions. If you are unsure of your ability, please contact us for more information.
• Groups can expect 2 – 4 runs for the day, depending on ability and fitness level
• Transportation is not included.

Lift Ticket: If you do NOT currently possess a valid Whistler Blackcomb lift ticket (Seasons Pass, Spirit Pass, Edge Card, Epic Pass, etc.), you may buy a Lift Ticket through our office at checkout.

**All Courses subject to a minimum number of participants. 48 hour notice will be given if the minimum number has not been reached.

The guide will get everyone to sign a waiver and perform a gear check before a trip briefing on safety and the day’s objectives.

Take Whistler or Blackcomb Lifts read to start day:

• Equipment setup boots, skins and ski’s/board for touring
• Trailhead procedures with transceiver
• Companion rescue review
• How to efficiently walk up hill in touring mode
• Terrain choice and limitations depending on hazards

Uphill terrain selection and track-setting:

• Safe terrain selection and efficient uptrack.
• How to evaluate a slope
• Maintain situational awareness

Downhill safe terrain choice and technique:

• Use Slope Avaluator to choose a run appropriate to conditions.
• Efficient transition from touring to skiing mode. Care of skins, transition routine.
• How to best ski the run
• Where and when to regroup safely

The day will finish at approximately 4:30pm with a debrief. The guide will also suggest what to do next to further your backcountry knowledge and abilities.

MSAA Loyalty Program: Following the AST-1 Course all students will be added to the MSAA loyalty program. All students will receive a 10% discount on any future course with MSAA. Following the AST-1 Course we reccomend all students take the AST-2 course within the next 1-2 seasons. For more information contact our office.

Rentals/Purchase:

If you require rentals we have teamed up with local companies to provide discounted rates. Visit our rental page HERE for more information!

Equipment:

• Touring skis / splitboard and skins
• Avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, shovel, probe)
• Ski / snowboard boots (your regular boots will work with the touring bindings)
• Poles
• Lift pass
• Weatherproof shell jacket and pants – dress for a day in the alpine
• Warm layers (fleece or puffy jacket)
• Thermal under layer
• Gloves
• Winter hat/toque
• Helmet
• Goggles and/or sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Water (1 litre)
• Lunch and snacks
• Camera