Molly Hagbrand
Get away from the hectic routine of frontcountry life and ski (or ride) through fresh powder in some of the United States’ best backcountry winter terrain. Along the way, learn about avalanche assessment and how to stay comfortable and healthy while winter camping. If you’re looking for an experience that will prepare you to pursue your own winter trips in the backcountry, this is the course for you.
You will spend the first few days at the NOLS Teton Valley base reviewing your gear, practicing your skiing or snowboarding skills at Grand Targhee Ski Resort in lessons with professional ski instructors, learning about winter camping, and receiving introductory avalanche assessment training. Your avalanche training will consist of both classroom courses and a daylong ski touring session. If you are new to skiing, we recommend taking a few ski lessons before coming to your course.
Then, you will head either to the Snake River Range, the Palisades, the Wyoming Range, or the Absaroka Mountains. Although these mountains are very different geologically, they are all known for dependable snow and terrific skiing. These mountains are magical places to explore and exhilarating areas to learn the intricacies of backcountry skiing and winter travel and have breathtaking views of the Tetons.
In the backcountry, you’ll learn to build snug show shelters, keep yourself warm and prevent cold injuries, and other basic winter camping skills. You’ll spend your days learning about avalanches, honing your touring skills, and elevating your leadership skills. By the end of this course, you’ll be a competent winter traveler in the backcountry and will have the skills and experience to pursue your own winter adventures.