Overview
Want to try exploring the backcountry? Spend the day with our professional guide while learning a variety of skills and techniques for safe, efficient travel through the mountains. 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. Participants must be comfortable and confident in intermediate terrain [blue runs] in a variety of snow conditions.
What you will be doing
The guide will get everyone to sign a waiver and perform a gear check before a trip briefing on safety and the day's objectives.
The guide will also suggest what to do next to further your backcountry knowledge and abilities.
Where we'll meet
🧭 Meeting/pick-up point: Whistler, BC V8E, Canada
🗺️ Instructions: Meeting point will be confirmed upon booking completion.
Things to know
Accessibility:
Not suited for wheelchair users
Not suited for children
Not suited for pregnant people
Fitness requirement
Moderate fitness level
Tour Language
English
License requirement
None
Additional information:
MSAA Loyalty Program: Following the AST-1 Course all students will be added to the MSAA loyalty program. All students will receive a 10% discount on any future course with MSAA. Following the AST-1 Course we recommend all students take the AST-2 course within the next 1-2 seasons.
Lift Ticket: If you do NOT currently possess a valid Whistler Blackcomb lift ticket (Seasons Pass, Spirit Pass, Edge Card, Epic Pass, etc.), you may buy a Lift Ticket through our office at checkout.
All Courses subject to a minimum number of participants. 48 hour notice will be given if the minimum number has not been reached.
Minimum age is 16
Season is Nov - Apr
Prerequisites: Average Fitness & Intermediate Skier
Groups can expect 2 - 4 runs for the day, depending on ability and fitness level
Avalanche safety equipment is not included (transceiver, shovel, probe)
Touring skis/splitboard required.
Geared for skiers and snowboarders who are ready to step beyond the resort but have little or no backcountry experience.
Inclusion ✅
Instructor
Skiing equipment
Exclusion ❌
Snack
Water
Pick up and drop off transport
Gratuities
About your host
Mountain Skills Academy & AdventuresSince 1991 we have been specialists in the mountain disciplines of Backcountry Skiing, Rock climbing, Ice Climbing, Mountaineering, Hiking, Mountain Safety and Mountain Adventures. We are proud of our good reputation and of the true expertise we provide. Owned and operated by seasoned IFMGA/ACMG certified Mountain Guides, we are genuine mountain professionals committed to the pursuit of excellence in all the mountain endeavours we provide. After over 20 years spending time in the mountains with our clients, we are proud to say we uphold an impeccable safety record.
For every trip booked, Kodama Travel donates £1 to Just One Tree to restore our forests and the ocean.