Backcountry Ski Course 1

Description

Techniques Covered:

• Gear selection and preparation: Proper gear selection, packing, and
• preparation are critical for backcountry skiing. Participants will learn about
• essential equipment such as skis, bindings, boots, skins, poles, helmets,
• beacons, shovels, and probes.
• Avalanche Risk: Avalanche risk is one of the most significant hazards in the
• backcountry. Skiers must learn how to recognize avalanche terrain and
• assess the risk of avalanche activity. They must also know how to use
• avalanche safety gear such as beacons, shovels, and probes.
• Terrain Selection Basics : The backcountry offers a wide range of terrain, from
• steep couloirs to open slopes. Skiers must be familiar with the terrain they
• plan to ski and understand how to navigate it safely.
• Uphill travel: Refers to the technique of ascending hills and mountains on
• skis. In the backcountry, skiers often use a technique called skinning, which
• involves attaching specially designed skins to the base of the skis to provide
• grip and traction on the snow. Skinning is a highly efficient way to travel uphill,
• and it allows skiers to access remote areas that would be difficult to reach on
• foot. On this basic course, we focus on a series of different techniques for
• doing turns and skiing up .
• Backcountry skiing requires a range of skiing techniques to navigate varied
• and challenging terrain safely and efficiently. (Powder snow, Ice snow,
• crusty layers of ice on surface on top and sugar down and lots of other
• situations that a skier could face on a mountain)
• Using safety equipment (Shovel, probe, Transceiver): Learning to use a
• shovel, beacon, and probe is essential for backcountry skiing safety. These
• tools are used for avalanche rescue and can make the difference between life
• and death in an emergency. On this course, one of the main issues is to
• practice how to safely travel with these equipment and how to perform a rescue in
• case of an accident.
  

  Equipment needed:

1. Skis or splitboard: Choose appropriate skis or a splitboard for backcountry terrain.
2. Ski boots or snowboard boots: Ensure they provide proper support and fit comfortably.
3. Ski poles: Lightweight and adjustable poles for balance and propulsion.
4. Skins: Adhesive climbing skins to attach to the base of your skis for uphill traction.
5. Avalanche safety gear: Transceiver, probe, and shovel for snow safety and rescue.
6. Backpack: A backpack to carry your essentials, including water, snacks, and extra layers.
7. Helmet: Protect your head with a suitable ski or snowboard helmet.
8. Goggles or sunglasses: Eye protection from sun, wind, and snow glare.
9. Layered clothing: Dress in moisture-wicking and insulating layers suitable for changing weather conditions.
10. Gloves or mittens: Warm and waterproof gloves or mittens for hand protection.
11. Hat or beanie: Keep your head warm with a suitable hat or beanie.
12. Sunscreen and lip balm: Protect your skin from sun exposure and windburn.
13. Food and water: Carry enough food and water to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
    

    The guide will carry the following:

14. First aid kit: A compact first aid kit with essential supplies.
15. Repair kit: Includes tools and materials for minor equipment repairs on the go.
    

    Location:

• Either Bright or near Mt Hotham. The final location depends on the snow conditions and will be communicated to participants closer to the course date.
  

  Times:

• Aim to be learning from 9am to 4pm each day.
  

  The course fee does not cover:

• Transport to/from Melbourne, including parking fees on location
• Food
• Accommodation
• Equipment rental
  

  Note on accommodation: 

• We have a contact in Bright where a few beds are available for $50 per night and ground accommodation (bring sleeping bag and mattress) is available for $20 per night.