Whistler: Intro to Backcountry Skiing & Splitboarding Course｜Canada

Join a fun and educational day in the backcountry adjacent to Whistler Blackcomb. Among the many skills you will be introduced to are basic avalanche rescue, terrain analysis, track setting, uphill and downhill skiing technique, route finding, tree skiing and trip planning. Spend a full day skiing and riding while covering uphill and downhill skills in powder, equipment use and safety awareness.

There is no better place in the world to learn backcountry skiing than Whistler and your experienced guides will ensure you have an enjoyable and educational day. This is a must-do tour to complete your stay in Whistler. This tour is geared for beginner skiers or snowboarders looking at getting into backcountry travel. Participants must be comfortable and confident in intermediate terrain [blue runs] in a variety of snow conditions. Groups can expect 2 – 4 runs for the day, depending on ability and fitness level.

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. You will cover the following throughout your day:

Equipment setup: boots, skins and skis/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 Evaluator 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 at the Escape Route Alpine Demo Centre. The guide will also suggest what to do next to further your backcountry knowledge and abilities