Backcountry Education & Skimo Programs

SSWSC’s Backcountry and Skimo programs introduce athletes to the adventure and challenge of human-powered skiing in the mountains. These programs focus on mountain safety, fitness, and technical progression, offering both educational and competitive pathways. Backcountry Education programs for both middle and high school age athletes and adults teach essential skills for winter travel beyond the ski area—decision-making in mountain environments, avalanche awareness, route planning, snow science, and safe group travel. Backcountry education programs and AIARE courses include classroom and on-snow sessions at Howelsen Hill with longer tours in local terrain like Rabbit Ears Pass and Hahn’s Peak.

Skimo (Ski Mountaineering) focuses on climbing and descending with skill and speed through challenging alpine terrain, combining uphill skiing, transitions, and technical descents. Athletes age 14+ train with lightweight touring gear and have the opportunity to compete in local races, including Cody’s Challenge.

Whether exploring the backcountry or training for skimo competition, all athletes learn in a safety-first, skills-based environment led by experienced coaches. These programs are designed to build fundamental skills, confidence, fitness, and a lifelong connection to the mountains. Most backcountry and skimo programs are scheduled so athletes can add them to other SSWSC winter programs, allowing those who are interested to pursue new knowledge, skills, and fitness while at the same time pursuing their primary sports.