This program is for LGBTQ+ adults who are advanced skiers and riders, but lack the skills and knowledge to plan and implement their own backcountry tours. Participants will begin by learning the foundations of backcountry skiing and splitboarding. Backcountry touring topics will include how to select an uphill route, gear use and maintenance, uphill efficiency, transitions, and downhill management. Snow and avalanche topics will have a focus on making observations in the field, rescue skills, terrain identification, and decision making. The program will be led by LGBTQ+ guides and educators.

The goal of this program is to build confidence and encourage independence in backcountry skiing and splitboarding.The creation of this mentorship program is intended to build community and offer a space for LGBTQ+ identifying people to feel welcomed. This program is being created with the hopes of encouraging more diversity in the backcountry. Everyone stands to benefit from a more diverse outdoors and this mentorship program is one way to improve our broader backcountry ski and splitboard community. By building connections and relationships within the LGBTQ+ community, participants can feel comfortable being themselves. Better learning outcomes are often associated with affinity groups like this one and our hope is to encourage safe, lifelong learning in the backcountry.

Topics Include:

• Dial in your backcountry setup, review what to bring & what not to; learn how to stay warm, yet not overheat on the skin trail
• Implement beacon function and distance checks
• Get feedback, practice and hone avalanche rescue skills
• Methodize your tour planning - use systems to help formulate options and select appropriate tour plans (avi and weather forecasts, red light/green light terrain, etc.)
• Dig pits, practice on-the-go tests, and record daily findings
• Evolve your avalanche risk and terrain decision-making skills in relation to the changing snowpack
• Dial in skinning technique: kick turns, pressure breathing etc
• Learn to set an efficient, low-risk skin track
• Develop your downhill movement skills in a various snow types
• Test your limits - on steeps, trees, couloirs, distance and vertical
• Get a taste for ski-mountaineering - how and when is it useful climb on foot and to use sharps? Pros & cons of ice axe, whippet, ski & boot crampons, belayed skiing/riding
• Ride a novel line - as conditions permit. Apply new skills and push for a Wasatch Classic
• Learn how to be a leader and solid backcountry companion
• Work as a team, build each other up, be your best self, get fit, explore new terrain and celebrate being out in nature!

NOTE: Guides plan to cover the skills and objectives listed above as indicated by current weather, avalanche and snow conditions. For example, we don't want to waste a low-hazard powder day on rescue drills. Primary objectives will be announced a day or 2 prior to each tour.

How to Register:

• Register Online
• Call us at (801) 550 3986
• Email us