What is the minimum skiing ability required for this course?

Participants must be expert skiers comfortable on steep, variable backcountry terrain and familiar with off-piste conditions.

Is previous mountaineering experience necessary?

While helpful, previous mountaineering experience is not mandatory as technical skills will be taught during the course.

What safety measures are in place for avalanche risks?

Our guides provide thorough avalanche education, constant condition assessment, and require all participants to carry and use safety equipment.

Are meals provided during the course?

Meals are typically self-provisioned but instructors will provide guidance on appropriate food and hydration for alpine conditions.

Can I rent gear locally for the course?

Yes, local outfitters in Cottonwood Heights and nearby Salt Lake City offer ski and avalanche gear rentals tailored to backcountry needs.

What is the group size for this private experience?

The course is designed to be private or small group, usually capped at 6 participants for personalized instruction and safety.

Advanced Ski Mountaineering Course in Cottonwood Heights, Utah | Ski | Winter Activities

Immerse yourself in an exhilarating three-day Ski Mountaineering Course with The Backcountry Pros LLC, set in the stunning Wasatch alpine near Cottonwood Heights, Utah. This advanced course is tailored for expert skiers eager to expand their backcountry skills, focusing on challenging terrain navigation, glacier travel techniques, and winter camping essentials. Participants will experience hands-on instruction in ascending complex mountain routes with skins and crampons, as well as learning critical avalanche safety and route-finding strategies. The course combines technical skill-building with the joy of outdoor adventure, all within a supportive basecamp community that fosters camaraderie and shared learning. The Wasatch Mountains deliver breathtaking alpine views and fresh powder conditions, creating the perfect environment for serious skiers seeking to push their limits and sharpen their expertise. Whether mastering the nuances of efficient skinning or fine-tuning your winter survival setup, this course elevates your backcountry prowess. It's an unmatched opportunity to connect deeply with mountainous Utah terrain away from crowded slopes, guided by seasoned professionals who prioritize safety, skills, and adventure.

About The Backcountry Pros LLC

The Backcountry Pros LLC is a Utah-based guiding and education company specializing in backcountry skiing, avalanche education, and technical climbing instruction. The team offers a range of hands-on experiences — from single-day clinics to multi-day mentorships and heli-assisted ski touring — focused on practical skills, decision-making, and safe mountain travel. Instructional offerings include Advanced Backcountry Skiing Mentorship, Backcountry Skiing Mentorship, Ski Mountaineering Course, Level I (Uinta Mountains), Avalanche I Refresher, Heli Assisted Ski Touring, Intro to Trad Climbing, Multi Pitch Self Rescue, Advanced Ice Techniques, and Ice Intro Clinic.

Courses combine classroom and fieldwork when appropriate, with Zoom sessions, guided field days, basecamp-style mentorship, and real-world scenario practice. The Backcountry Pros LLC emphasizes small groups and a limited instructor-to-student ratio to maximize individualized feedback and hands-on coaching. Professional ski instructors and certified guides lead technical lessons in the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains, covering avalanche forecasting, companion rescue, ski travel techniques, ice screw placement, anchor building, and multi-pitch self-rescue.

Safety and evidence-based decision making are core priorities; students practice terrain assessment, hazard interpretation, and rescue drills in real mountain settings. The company’s programs are designed for progressing skiers and climbers seeking measurable skill development, confidence in complex terrain, and the ability to plan and execute safe backcountry trips. Booking information, prerequisite details, and course logistics are provided for each trip to ensure participants arrive prepared for a productive and secure learning experience. Industry-standard safety protocols and hands-on mentorship create measurable progress and lasting skills for responsible mountain travel across winter and alpine environments.