Getting into a new sport or activity often involves a steep learning curve. Choosing equipment, translating gear lingo, finding appropriate venues, packing for the day, executing the activity–all of these steps can be frustrating for folks who “don’t know what they don’t know.” Here at the CTA we talk to a lot of people who want to start backcountry skiing or riding, but don’t know how to get started.
Well….This winter the Catamount Trail Association will be bringing you an entire month of backcountry instruction with a single goal: help as many interested individuals as possible develop the skills and confidence necessary to safely explore the winter wilderness here in Vermont and beyond!
We’ve moved away from the single-day/little-bit-of-everything type of event to a series of highly focused classes, or tracks. Each track is designed to teach a very specific set of skills and competencies and will set you up for your next step on the pathway to becoming a full-fledged backcountry skier.
Here’s a quick look at the classes we’ll be offering. Don’t forget to sign up if you find a good fit!
Introduction to Overland Touring
This introductory track is aimed at the new skier looking to try point-to-point backcountry touring on the Catamount Trail or other similar trails using lightweight nordic touring equipment.
Dates:
-Sunday, February 1, 2015
-Sunday, February 15, 2015
Location: Bolton Valley, VT
Click here to learn more about this course and to register.
Our Intermediate Overland Touring track will take the form of a teaching tour where the group will explore easier backcountry trails in search of teachable moments.
Dates:
-Sunday, February 1, 2015
-Sunday, February 8. 2015
-Sunday, February 15, 2015
-Sunday, February, 22, 2015
Location: Bolton Valley, VT
Click here to learn more about this course and to register.
Introduction to the Telemark Turn
This track is for skiers looking to tackle more challenging terrain, or those who want to spice up tours by being able to take better advantage of skiable downhill areas.
Dates:
-Sunday January 25, 2015 (Pico)
-Sunday, February 1, 2015 (Bolton)
-Sunday, February 15, 2015 (Bolton)
Locations:
-Pico Mountain, VT
-Bolton Valley, VT
Click here to learn more about this course and to register.
Introduction to Mountain Touring
This track is intended for expert level skiers and riders who are new to exploring the backcountry. Maybe you just purchased your first set of AT equipment or splitboard and are looking for some guidance on using it and playing safely and responsibly in the woods.
Dates:
-Sunday, February 8, 2015
-Sunday, February 22, 2015
-One more date TBD
Location: Bolton Valley, VT
Click here to learn more about this course and to register.
