Introduction to Backcountry Touring
Two-Day Course
During this two-day course, you will learn the essential skills of backcountry touring, including backcountry gear essentials, skinning techniques, transitioning, terrain selection, and avalanche awareness. Come join other curious folks and learn more about how to access the mountains on foot.
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During this two-day course, you will learn the essential skills of backcountry skiing.
On both days, we will meet at the Mount Baker Ski Area and journey into the backcountry area.
We have divided this course into two days, without the introduced challenge of snow camping, so that you will have the full capacity to learn these skills without a heavy pack.
On day 1 we will cover equipment use, skinning techniques, and transitions. We will then begin to use the terrain to ski low hazard slopes.
On the second day, we will focus on terrain and hazard assessment, tour planning, and skiing as much as we can.
Through practice and repetition with an expert guide, you will leave the course with a new skillset for backcountry skiing.
Throughout the course, we will discuss avalanche safety and awareness. This is not an avalanche specific course. Taking a three day avalanche course, such as AIARE 1, is a great step either before or after this course.
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No prior experience is required - this is an introductory experience. Avalanche education is not required.
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Touring equipment
Skinning technique
Avalanche awareness
Terrain management
Mapping
Transitions
Repair
What to bring in your backpack
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Day 1:
Meet in Glacier, WA at 8am for a discussion on mapping and terrain over coffee
Transition to the Mount Baker Ski Area for gear introduction
Begin touring
Debrief and wrap up at the Ski Area no later than 5 pm
Day 2:
Gather in Glacier, WA for morning meeting and carpool to the ski area
Focus on moving through terrain and becoming more efficient
Debrief and wrap up the course by 5pm
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Included
● Guided skiing and instruction
● Wilderness permits
● Guides carry a full trauma kit and satellite phones for emergencies
● Group resources such as extra beacons for rescue practice, strike plates, ect.
Not Included
● Transportation and lodging
● Personal gear and food
● Trip cancellation insurance/evac coverage
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After signing up, you will receive an informational packet of our meeting location, what to expect, a packing list, and other course information that will be helpful for you to review.
Price: $550
2026 Dates:
May 20-21
May 23 - 24
Difficulty: Beginner
Upward Transitions Institute holds a Temporary Use Permit within Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Mt. Baker Ranger District
“In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination: write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD).”
