Ability Level

Honest assessment of your ability and fitness level is very important. If you do not have the fitness or ability to keep up with the others in a particular group you will be frustrated, or if you choose to participate in an introductory level clinic, expect to start the learning progression at the beginning.

The following guidelines should help:

 

Karhu XCD Tour - The High Peaks traverse through Avalanche Pass is 13 miles plus elevation gain and loss and participants should be capable cross-country skiers.

Novice Level - You are new to backcountry skiing. You probably have some prior cross-country, telemark, alpine or snowboard experience and are familiar with the practice of sliding on snow for outdoor recreation. Your fitness level is good enough to spend 4-6 hours out skiing with a pack on with the energy to fall and pick yourself up again--often. (Instruction will include strategies for efficiency and comfort for these types of days). Instruction will begin at the beginning- with a discussion of the specialized equipment and how to put it on, then how to use it.

Intermediate Level- You might already have some backcountry skiing experience. You are a regular alpine skier and can comfortably ski intermediate level (blue square) trails at any major ski area (like Whiteface). Your fitness level is good enough to spend 5-7 hours out skiing with the energy to control your descent on moderate terrain. (Instruction will include strategies for efficiency and comfort for these types of days.) Instruction will review the basics and introduce a variety of intermediate level techniques for ascent and descent in backcountry terrain and conditions.

Advanced Level- You must have prior backcountry experience to participate in the advanced tour. In addition, you are an avid alpine skier and can comfortably ski expert level (black diamond) trails at any major ski area (like Whiteface). Your fitness should be good enough to spend 6-8 hours out skiing with a pack, with the energy to control your descent on challenging terrain and snow conditions. Instruction assumes prior knowledge of your equipment and basic techniques and focuses on