Fellow Trip Organizers

The BCMC’s Introduction to Backcountry Skiing courses have been so popular that we have added extra instructors and may have to add extra trips to meet the demand. This is a great learning experience, but in past years participants have not been able to practice these new skills because beginner friendly backcountry skiing trips are few, and they fill up fast.

Recently, the beginner friendly trip to Zoa Peak on January 9 had 7 people registered and a waiting list of 16 people. There is clearly more demand than supply, but if every organiser (who is comfortable with backcountry skiing) puts just one trip on the schedule, demand will likely be met!

Some other beginner friendly destinations are Needle Peak, Iago, Nak, and Diamond Head. If you allow for a longer amount of time to do these trips, most novice backcountry skiers will feel comfortable. You may consider pairing newer skiers with people who are more experienced; having a designated tail-gunner or sweep is another way to manage groups with varying abilities.

If you are a backcountry skier, we hope that you will consider posting a beginner friendly trip to the BCMC schedule, and we hope to see you out in the mountains this winter! 

Thank you,

Lisa Quattrocchi and Diana Diaconu