Copyright 2007
Sun Valley Trekking
 

WINTER BACKCOUNTRY EDUCATION

Level 1 Avalanche Awareness for Backcountry Skiers and Snowboarders:

Snow pit study

This course is designed as an introduction to avalanche phenomena as it relates to backcountry skiers and snowboarders. The course format will emphasize practical avalanche awareness and safety measures through hands-on learning. The curriculum follows the American Avalanche Association's Level 1 guidelines. Join us at Tornak Hut in the midst of the vast Smokey Mountain laboratory. Skills:

• Identification of avalanche terrain and safe route-finding
• Basic understanding of grain types, layering, and dynamics in the snowpack
• A range of tests to gauge the relative stability of the snowpack
• Basic forecasting of mountain weather
• Group and individual rescue protocols

Learn to do this safely

We offer two courses in the winter 2008. All courses follow a similar curriculum and will be held at a backcountry ski hut. Food, lodging, transportation to and from the trailhead as well as a student handbook are all included.

Dates: Jan 4-6, 2008, and Feb.1-3, 2008 Price: $425.

Level 2 Avalanche Awareness for Backcountry Skiers and Snowboarders

This intensive 4 day course is designed for the experienced backcountry skier looking to advance their skills in snowpack evaluation and avalanche hazard analysis.

Level 1 certification is required for enrollment and participants should have advanced ski/snowboard ability.

Dates: TBA.

Backcountry Glisse Intensive

Francie St. Onge -- Mt. Reagan.

This is a six-day intensive course for skiers and riders who want to expand their knowledge and expertise in the wonderful world of backcountry glisse. We will address a range of topics, including the history of skiing, winter ecology, ski and snowboard technique, mountain weather and avalanche forecasting. Five nights in the backcountry, divided between Tornak hut and Coyote yurt in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, will provide us with the ultimate stage for learning and fun in the snow. We'll provide a course reader full of pertinent literature and follow the American Avalanche Association's Level I curriculum. The course is designed to be interactive, and we encourage participants through hands-on learning. Needless to say, any course that dares to call itself Backcountry Glisse Intensive will include a tireless search for perfect powder turns.

Please call us for details.

Wild Snow

Make the Transition from Ski Area to Backcountry. This two-day course is for competent area skiers and riders who want a taste of wild snow, away from the lift served skiing. Maximize both safety and fun and enjoy lots of turns. Focus will be on ski technique in the ever-variable, always enjoyable, feast of backcountry conditions. Dine and relax in the comfort of Bench Hut in the heart of the spectacular Sawtooth mountains.

Please call us for details.

Chix on Stix

Join Francie and friends for a three-day all-women's hut trip. Designed for women who want to learn about safe backcountry travel and ski technique in a fun and supportive environment. Each woman will come away feeling more confident and self-reliant in the backcountry. Share camaraderie, stories, a cedar sauna, and Big Fun with a group of adventurous women. All ages and abilities welcome.

Dates: March 10-12 ,2008 $400