Introduction to Backcountry Skiing | January 9, 2027

EducationModerate +No Experience NeededPublic CourseSnow

Get Into the Backcountry

Join us for a day in the beautiful and accessible mountains of Colorado. Leave the ski-area crowds and expensive lunches behind and discover the freedom of traveling through the backcountry.

Our Intro to Backcountry Skiing courses are designed to give you a strong foundation for exploring beyond the resort and to prepare skiiers for an AIARE 1 course.

At Pikes Peak Alpine School, you’ll learn from passionate, experienced guides who know and love these mountains. Several of our guides have are AMGA Certified Ski Guides, bringing a high level of experience and expertise to our program.

Safety. Experience. Passion. Come explore the backcountry with us.

Per Skier  $265

Winter 2026-27 Public Course Dates:

  • Saturday January 9
  • Sunday February 7
Want a custom trip? Call Us.
(719) 368-9524
  • Avalanche rescue review/briefing
  • Basic tour planning and implementation
  • Gear and safety gear considerations
  • Group communication
  • Terrain selection (micro and macro assessments)
  • Track setting and pacing
  • Skinning technique and efficiencies
  • Transitions
  • Descending considerations
  • Monarch Pass
  • Use of Ortovox transceiver/probe/shovel
  • AMGA Apprentice Ski Guide (minimum)
  • Access to mentorship following the course
  • Skiing Skills: Skiiers should confidently on blue and some black runs in all conditions (powder, firm, crust, etc.). Off-piste (off-groomer) and easy bump runs experience is highly recommended to prepare for variable backcountry snow and obstacles.
  • Some skiing instructions is included but coming in with proficiency will give us more bandwidth to work on the other skills taught in this course.
  • Ortovox transceiver/probe/shovel
  • Maps and student materials

 

Need To Rent Gear? 
Mountain Chalet (downtown Colorado Springs) is offering a 25% discount on AT/splitboard rentals to our AIARE course participants!

Salida Mountain Sports (downtown Salida) has AT rentals.

  • Transportation, accommodations, food, and guide gratuity.

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