Backcountry education is a lifelong pursuit. Taking your first steps into the backcountry is a big decision and we recommend following this education framework to do it the right way.
BACKCOUNTRY
EDUCATION PATH
KNOWLEDGE IS POWDER
8 STEPS TO BECOMING COMPETENT IN THE BACKCOUNTRY
YOU'VE GOT THIS
NOW GET TO READING
STEP 1
LEARN FROM HOME
Watch our Slay at Home video series on YouTube for free. We cover things like backcountry basics, gear recommendations, and getting started with avalanche education.
STEP 2
TRY IT BEFORE YOU BUY
Attend an on-resort, backcountry focused demo and try out some gear before you invest in a full set up. Check out our event calendar for demos and events near you.
STEP 3
COMPLETE AN AVALANCHE AWARENESS SEMINAR
This is your first step in avalanche education. Meant to expose you to some of the very basic concepts, this is just dipping your toes in the water and should be complimented by an Avalanche Level 1 course before touring on your own.
STEP 4
BOOK AN INTRO TO BACKCOUNTRY COURSE
Many of our guide partners offer an intro to backcountry course that covers on snow essential skills such as how to use your gear to backcountry tour, basics of using skins, how to go about packing your pack, and basic downhill skiing/riding considerations. This course will help you be prepared for your Avalanche Level 1 course so that you don't hold up your group.
STEP 5
GET THE GEAR
Purchase your own backcountry ski or splitboard set up and get it dialed on a local resort.
STEP 6
GET THE EDUCATION
Take a companion rescue course and a Level 1 or AIARE 1 avalanche education course, we also recommend a Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course as well.
STEP 7
FIND YOUR CREW
Find great partners with similar ability levels. Join the Weston Backcountry Community on Facebook and look for meet-up days or make sure you make friends during your avalanche course.
STEP 8
CONTINUE YOUR EDUCATION
Book mentorship days with one of our recommended guide partners and consider progressing to a Level 2 avalanche course.
DON'T FORGET YOUR ESSENTIALS
THE NATIONAL FOREST FOUNDATION
The National Forest Foundation promotes the enhancement and public enjoyment of the 193-million-acre National Forest System. Each year, the NFF restores wildlife habitats, plants trees in areas affected by fires and improves recreational opportunities. Per our commitment to 1% for the Planet, Weston donates at minimum 1% of our yearly revenue to causes that help better our planet.
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