Ski Touring for Middle Schoolers, grades 6-8

This program is an introduction to ski touring and basic backcountry skiing concepts. Most training sessions will take place every other Monday evening at Howelsen Hill, with two longer field days (during SSK12 days off). The group will discuss and learn components of backcountry and ski touring awareness while hiking and exploring Emerald Mountain. In addition to ski touring technique, topics will include ski touring or splitboarding gear and skiing variable snow, terrain management, avalanche gear, and understanding group management/leadership skills.

Minimum skiing requirement: Ability to ski black runs and a desire to and willingness to hike for 1-3 hours

Equipment requirements: Backcountry ski or splitboard setup with touring bindings (tech/pin binding recommended for skis), skins, poles, and boots with walk mode. Avalanche safety equipment, including modern 3-antenna beacon (5 years old or less), shovel and probe. Daypack for safety gear along with helmet and goggles, personal first aid kit, and items for day tours. Contact instructor for information on backcountry equipment discounts.

2023-2024 DATES: November 27 – March 11

ON-SNOW:  Every other Monday evening in addition to one of two tour days
Monday, November 27, 4:00-6:00pm
Monday, December 11, 4:00-6:00pm
Tuesday January 2, 4:00-6:00pm
*Monday, January 15, 9am-2pm (MLK Day)
Monday, January 29, 4:00-6:00pm
*Friday, February 9, 9am-2pm (Tour Day, School day off for SSK12)
Monday, February 12, 4:00-6:00pm
Monday, February 26, 4:00-6:00pm
Monday, March 11, 4:00-6:00pm (end of season event)
*Participants will choose one of the two field sessions: January 15 OR February 9. Group size for each session is limited, so participants may not get their first choice on field session date.

2023-2024 PROGRAM FEE: $685

Questions?
Email Andy Michnay, Freeskiing Program Director