Introduction To Backcountry Skiing

NORTH CONWAY, NEW HAMPSHIRE

Randonée, ski touring, ski mountaineering and extreme skiing are all terms used to describe a new way of experiencing the world of backcountry skiing that is rapidly gaining popularity in the US.  These forms of skiing can be extremely dangerous if done without considering the hazards of avalanches, uncontrolled falls in steep terrain, fatigue, and mountain weather.  Alpine touring gear, also known as randonée gear, offers all the benefits of telemark or cross-country ski gear with the added power and control of downhill skis and bindings.  The pursuit of fresh fallen snow and new challenges draw hundreds off the ski slopes and into the backcountry each year.

Backcountry ski courses only touch on avalanche safety topics and should not be taken in lieu of a sanctioned avalanche training course.  It’s recommended to pair these programs with an Avalanche Training course through AIARE for a more comprehensive understanding of backcountry travel techniques, hazard awareness, and companion rescue.

From here, many of our skiers choose to book privately with a guide or take a Ski Mountaineering course to further develop their skills.

NOTE:  Group ski classes require a minimum enrollment of two people.  If you are booking alone for a class, your reservation is subject to change up until the last day if the minimum enrollment is not reached.  If you have a flexible schedule and you do not mind being matched with other skiers for the day, joining a class is a great cost-saving way to take a lesson.  If you have a limited schedule, or you do not wish to be paired with other skiers, we strongly recommend booking a private ski lesson.  Private lessons can be booked any day of the week and are guaranteed to run.  For information about private reservations please call 845-668-2030 or click here.

Itinerary

Groups meet promptly at 8:30am at the Eastern Mountain Sports in North Conway.  Click here for directions.  In the morning you will meet your guide, sign a waiver form, and get outfitted with gear for the day.  You should also bring enough food and water for the entire day.  The day will end around 4:30pm back at EMS.

Included/Not Included

Climbers will be outfitted with all technical ski equipment for the day.  You are welcome to bring your own equipment but it will be subject to approval by your guide.  Equipment provided includes boots, skis, poles, skins, beacon, probe, and shovel.  Skiers will be expected to arrive dressed appropriately for the weather and provide their own water, snacks, and lunches for the day.  See gear list for complete list of items you will be responsible for bringing.  Meals, lodging, and transportation are not included.

Cancellation Policy

Payment is due in full at time of reservation to secure your reservation.  Events run rain or shine.  Eastern Mountain Sports Schools reserves the right to cancel or reschedule events for low participation, weather, or safety concerns at any time.  We will try to give as much advance notice as possible, but may not always be able to give much advance warning, especially for weather cancellations.  Cancellations or schedule changes 14 days or more prior to the event start date will be fully refunded or credited with no penalty.  Within 14 days of the start date, courses cannot be refunded, but changes to reservations may be granted up until 7 days of the start date.  Reservation changes of any kind within 7 days of the event start date will not be refunded and you will not be allowed to carry over deposits to future events.  If you have any questions please call 845-668-2030.  We will be more than happy to review our cancellation policy with you.