Description

What is Advanced Backcountry Skiing?

This advanced course builds on fundamental backcountry skills to prepare you for more challenging terrain and conditions. You’ll develop the expertise needed for complex tours, steep terrain, and variable conditions while deepening your avalanche assessment skills.

What Will We Learn?

Advanced Movement

• Steep terrain kick turns
• Technical skinning techniques
• Using ski crampons
• Boot packing strategies
• Ice axe and crampon use
  

  Snow Science and Safety

• Advanced snow pit analysis
• Extended column tests
• Rutschblock testing
• Multiple burial rescue scenarios
• Advanced beacon search techniques
  

  Technical Systems

• Rope work for steep terrain
• Basic anchor building
• Short roping techniques
• Simple abseiling
  

  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.