Steep Ski Mountaineering - Cascade Mountain Ascents

Steep Ski Mountaineering

Looking to step your backcountry skiing or riding up a notch? Hone your steep ski techniques and open up more terrain in your home zone. Cascade Mountain Ascents’ steep ski and snowboard mountaineering course is the perfect introduction to secure, efficient and fun travel in high angle terrain. This three-day program introduces advanced students to the gear, technical skills and travel practices that you need to push into the terrain you’ve been dreaming of riding. Students should be advanced skiers or riders and have taken a Level 1 avalanche course.

Scheduled: $1125 Custom: $1125 - $1800

Here’s What To Expect

Itinerary

Day 1
Technical skills. We’ll meet in Glacier, WA on the first morning of the course and spend some time going over gear for steep skiing and riding. Afterwards, we’ll travel to Heather Meadows to go over ropework, systems and travel techniques used in the steeps.

Day 2
Objective based tour. We’ll choose a steep ski/ride objective where we can apply our new skills. Emphasis will be on implementation of the prior day’s learning and solidifying travel techniques in steep terrain.

Day 3
Objective based tour. We’ll seek out another steep line and focus on student leadership and decision making with instructor oversight. Instructors will provide feedback and resources that you can use to continue learning after the course.

Trip Details
Ratio

1 - 3 Guests Per Guide

Season

March-May

Duration

3 Days

Skill level

Advanced +

Program Rates

Scheduled: $1125 Custom: $1125 - $1800

Gear List

Ski Mountaineering
Gear List Document

Program Cost Does NOT Include: Transportation

Reviews

“Climbing with CMA was a true reflection of mindful mountaineering. As a female mountain lover, I’m used to being the only lady in a group of dudes. Sometimes that doesn’t feel 100% comfortable, particularly when you feel like it’s all about the grind, no emotions allowed. With CMA I felt that I was part of a big bear hug of awesomeness. Guides often set the tone for the team, and Zack set a tone of kindness and respect for everyone. When the going got tough, his humor lightened the mood without jeopardizing the seriousness of what we were doing. I will definitely be climbing with CMA again!”

“They do the essentials really well: they’re professional, knowledgeable and competent, great teachers, and always keep an eye on safety as every guide service must. What sets them apart for me is that they do all that AND make it FUN. Some of the best times I’ve ever had in the mountains are with this crew. I highly recommend them!”

“I hired this guide crew for technical education and then returned for their recreational guiding services. I’ll continue to lean on Cascade Mountain Ascents to bring me further into the backcountry and advance my technical skills in the mountains.”

“Cascade Mountain Ascents is seriously raising the bar for avalanche education—Fun-loving, inclusive, knowledgeable, fantastic educators, and all around stellar folks! I would absolutely recommend taking a course or spending a weekend in the mountains CMA!”

“Zack and Cascade Mountain Ascents is the best choice for your adventure no matter your skill level. From beginner to seasoned pro, Zack has you covered. His knowledge and skills of all-terrain and mountain situations had us feeling safe and confident all the way.”

“I’ve taken courses with the guides at CMA as well as gotten personal goals accomplished. Each time I’ve come away more competent, more confident, and inspired to take what I’ve learned into my next outing.”

“Fifth time out there with Zack – and as always it was spectacular. Zack‘s calm guiding style – paired with perfect preparation and route planning – push you without ever overwhelming personal abilities and strength. Countless successfully climbed peaks and everlasting memories are the rewards.”

“I have skied with all of the guides at CMA and have had great experiences. They are passionate about their craft, and it shows in the experiences they provide. They know where to find the best skiing and have extensive knowledge of the local terrain.”