GO TOURING: Intro to the Backcountry by Natural Freedom

GO TOURING: Intro to the Backcountry Course

Wanting to get comfortable in the backcountry this winter? Join us for a fun and educational day in the backcountry at Whistler Blackcomb. Among the many skills to which you will be introduced are basic avalanche rescue, terrain analysis, track setting, uphill and downhill skiing technique, route finding, tree skiing and trip planning. We spend a full day skiing and riding while covering uphill and downhill travel, equipment use and safety awareness.

This event is geared for skiers and snowboarders who are ready to step beyond the resort but have little or no backcountry experience. Led by Mountain Skill Academy guides. Participants must be comfortable and confident in intermediate terrain [blue runs] in a variety of snow conditions. Our group can expect 2 – 4 runs for the day, depending on ability and fitness level.

Important Information:

Avalanche safety equipment is not included (transceiver, shovel, probe)
Touring skis/splitboard required + poles and skins
RideHub Squamish is offering rentals at a 30% discount which will be given to all attendees.

When: Saturday Feb 22nd

Where: Whistler Blackcomb

Time: 830am - 4pm

Cost: $170

Lift Ticket: If you do NOT currently possess a valid Whistler Blackcomb lift ticket (Seasons Pass, Spirit Pass, Edge Card, Epic Pass, etc.), you can purchase a backcountry lift ticket through MSAA (cheaper than a day pass).

What you can expect:

What will we cover?

Morning gear check before briefing on safety and the day’s objectives
Equipment setup boots, skins and ski’s/board for touring
Trailhead procedures with transceiver
Companion rescue review
How to efficiently walk up hill in touring mode
Terrain choice and limitations depending on hazards

Uphill terrain selection and track-setting:

Safe terrain selection and efficient uptrack.
How to evaluate a slope
Maintain situational awareness

Downhill safe terrain choice and technique:

Use Slope Avlauator to choose a run appropriate to conditions.
Efficient transition from touring to skiing mode. Care of skins, transition routine.
How to best ski the run
Where and when to regroup safely

Who is this for?

With no previous experience or training required, this first step will show you what exists beyond the resort. Open to both skiers and splitboarders!

Join us in the backcountry women, men, non-binary folks, friends, couples or alone. Open to anyone! Limited spots - don't miss this chance :)

Event Recap: AST-1

Sharing some highlights from our first event of 2025!

As a group of 15 we got to study our avalanche safety skills online and then we all met in the field to become AST-1 certified! It was -25 degrees with the windchill so we hung out and went over some theory in the lodge and then tucked away in simple terrain just out of bounds to go over companion rescue, gear, snow pack and practice touring. We experienced all weather that day but kept the vibes high — such an awesome group! Thank you to everyone who joined!!

Thank you to our amazing guides Jessica & Lindsey of Mountain Skill Academy and thank you Claire of ACC Vancouver for all your support with lining up this event.

Thank you for the goodies Sunii Energy Gum and Plant of Life.

Event Recap: Intro to the Backcounry 2024

On March 17th, our beginner group had an exhilarating day exploring Whistler Blackcomb and making our way to Flute Summit to set up base camp. The event was a fantastic introduction to split boarding and ski touring, where participants learned essential skills such as avalanche safety, companion rescue, and snowpack analysis.

A special thank you to @miraecampbell for capturing amazing photos and providing guidance, @gillianandrewshenko for sharing your expertise, and our exceptional guides from @msa_adventures. We also appreciate @chiwis_snacks and @madewithlocal for the delicious snacks that kept us energized throughout the day.

The day was filled with learning and fun in the sun, as we delved into the fundamentals of backcountry skiing and riding. Participants were introduced to basic avalanche rescue, terrain analysis, track setting, uphill and downhill skiing techniques, route finding, tree skiing, and trip planning. With the support of our knowledgeable guides, we safely discovered the beauty of the backcountry.

This event was perfect for skiers and snowboarders with intermediate terrain experience who were ready to step beyond the resort. The group enjoyed 2-4 runs, depending on ability and fitness levels, and gained confidence in their new skills.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this educational and exciting backcountry adventure. Stay tuned for more events with Natural Freedom!