Vail Backcountry Skiing
Starting from$193 pp
Vail, Colorado is a top international skiing destination with world-renowned skiing, in and out-of-bounds, or Vail Backcountry Skiing).
Backcountry Skiing Colorado
Vail Backcountry Skiing
What is included in the Vail backcountry skiing trip?
The trip includes a guide, avalanche gear, and backcountry skiing instruction.
Do I need my own backcountry ski equipment?
You can bring your own gear or rent skis, boots, and skins from us.
What skills will I learn during the trip?
You’ll learn uphill travel, avalanche safety, terrain reading, and skiing techniques.
How physically demanding is backcountry skiing?
It requires moderate to high fitness and comfort with off-trail skiing.
Testimonials
Vail Backcountry Skiing
Vail, Colorado is a top international skiing destination with world-renowned skiing, in and out-of-bounds, or Vail Backcountry Skiing). Our backcountry skiing trips allow for an unparalleled experience of the Rocky Mountains, where pristine bowls and fresh lines await. Ascend through alpine meadows, enjoy breathtaking scenery and glide down untracked lines in the peaceful quiet of Colorado’s backcountry.
Apex Mountain School’s backcountry ski guides will share hidden powder stashes, as well as backcountry travel and snow analysis tips to help build your backcountry travel skills. Our guides know the local terrain better than anyone else and are excited to share their vast experience skiing and riding in the Colorado backcountry with you. Step into your bindings and experience the unique thrill of riding untracked terrain in a wild backcountry setting with Apex Mountain School.
Difficulty:
Easy – Difficult
Duration:
6 – 7 hours
Locations:
Vail, CO (Meadow Mountain, Spraddle Creek)
Leadville, CO (Fremont Pass)
Policies
See our inclusion policy for special group requests.
Booking / More Info
All ages 12 and up
Ready to sign up? We look forward guiding you on a Vail Backcountry Skiing trip. Register with the accompanying calendar, call (970) 949-9111 or use our contact page to request more info.
- Introduction and safety briefing
- Gear check and equipment fitting
- Review of the day’s plan and goals
Skinning and Uphill Travel
- Learn how to use climbing skins
- Practice efficient uphill travel techniques
- Tips for conserving energy
Backcountry Navigation & Terrain Assessment
- Learn route-finding skills in the backcountry
- Understand how to read terrain and snowpack
- Introduction to avalanche terrain recognition
Avalanche Safety Fundamentals
- Use of beacon, probe, and shovel
- Companion rescue basics
- Avalanche risk management principles
Descent Techniques
- Skiing techniques for variable snow conditions
- Line selection and safe group spacing
- Tips for skiing in powder and challenging terrain
Group Communication & Decision Making
- Travel protocols and hand signals
- Group dynamics and safety roles
- Making smart decisions in real time
Wrap-Up & Review
- Discuss the day’s objectives and lessons
- Review of individual and group performance
- Recommendations for next steps in backcountry skiing
Available Daily
Select date on booking calendar above.
Include
- Professional, certified backcountry ski guide
- Avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe)
- Backcountry ski equipment (available for rent if needed)
- Instruction in uphill travel and backcountry techniques
- Avalanche awareness and terrain management training
- Navigation and route-finding guidance
- Small group sizes for personalized attention
- Unforgettable skiing experience in Vail’s scenic backcountry
- Each person in your party will need:
- An All terrain (AT), Telemark, or Splitboard touring package.
- Beacon/Probe/Shovel (rental available) No Plastic Shovels Please
- 1-2 water bottles or thermos
- Lunch, and high energy snacks such as nut bars, cookies, chocolate
- Headwear – Visor or Cap, Hat or Helmet, Googles, Sunglasses
- Balaclava or neck gaiter
- One pair of gloves, one pair of mittens for cold days
- Synthetic or wool base layer
- Mid Weight base layer fleece or sweater
- Puffy Jacket
- Shell Jacket
- Synthetic or wool long johns
- Ski pants with zippered vents OR mid weight fleece layer and shell pants
- Synthetic or wool socks optimum weight for your boot fit
- Sunscreen
- Pack (26-30 Liters) that can accommodate, shovel, probe, skins, 1-2 water bottles or thermos, lunch, snacks, extra clothing when climbing, goggles…
ALSO CONSIDER
- Hand warmers
- Hot liquid
- Gaiters
- Liner socks
- Adjustable Poles
- Small day pack
- Extra gloves
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle insulator
- Camera
During times of Covid-19 concern please bring:
Face mask, Hand Sanitizer, Rubber Gloves (if desired)
- Be in good physical condition
- Dress in moisture-wicking layers
- Bring gloves, hat, goggles/sunglasses
- Pack water, snacks, and a backpack
- Bring or rent touring skis, boots, and skins
- Check weather and avalanche forecast
- Eat a healthy meal before the trip
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early for check-in
Other Outings You Might Like
Ice Climbing
In winter, cascading waterfalls and trickling alpine flows freeze and form fantastically beautiful and surreal ice climbs.
Winter Fourteeners
Take on the challenge of ascending a 14,000-foot peak during the winter season. With expert guides, you’ll experience the beauty and intensity of Colorado’s winter backcountry while summiting these majestic mountains.
Avalanche Education Courses
Prepare for the backcountry with essential avalanche safety skills, guided by skilled instructors.
Contact Us
We’re Happy To Help!
Reach out with any questions
Address
40800 US Highway 6, Unit 7, Avon, CO 81620