Ready to leave the resort boundaries and explore untracked slopes in Utah’s backcountry? Well you better get educated about avalanches first. One way to get started is by attending the Backcountry 101 course at Brighton. This course is geared toward skiers and snowboarders who are brand new to off-piste riding who need to learn how to ride safely where the avalanche dragon lurks.
According to organizers, the Brighton Backcountry 101 course is designed specifically for recreational skiers and snowboarders with upper intermediate to advanced/ expert riding skills. Subjects include: companion rescue, weather, snowpack, terrain, route finding, gear considerations, and human factors. Participants will be divided into small groups to maximize the learning experience.
Supposedly, this is the longest running BC-101 course in the Wasatch. To be a part of it, you will need the following:
- Avalanche beacon
- Probe
- Shovel
Like most avalanche courses, it is split into a few days. the first day on Thursday, January 29th will be indoors for a lecture from 5:30pm till approximately 9:00pm. The second day of the course on Saturday, January 31st, is the field session from 9:00am till approximately 4:00pm.
AT skis or splitboard with skins is not required. You also DO NOT need a Brighton lift ticket. The course costs $90, which is due on the first day of the course. Pre registration is required. To register, send an email to keith.kink@gmail.com