Backcountry Leaders Initiative

Considering the lack of BIPOC AIARE instructors & ski/snowboard guides, this is a free mentorship program.

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Climbers of Color’s Backcountry Leaders Initiative provides extended mentorship, education, and coaching for those seeking to further their backcountry skills to become certified AIARE instructors &/or pursue backcountry ski/snowboard guiding. The cohort will be limited to 4 intermediate backcountry* snowboarders and skiers. The program will run from January 2023 - April/ May 2023. Prior goals for this group may include: 

• Improved forecast interpretation and application skills

• Improved confidence traveling in advanced and complex terrain

• Improved confidence traveling to & leading groups in new snowpacks

• Volcano/big mountain touring efficiencies

• Pro-1 2023/2024 application

• AIARE 2023/2024 Instructor Trainer Course application

• Introduction to technical skills for backcountry ski-guiding/ ski-mountaineering

 

*Note: 

Climbers of Color recognizes a conglomerate of factors that creates an intermediate ability level. Rigid prerequisites are outlined below; any further questions or concerns may be directed to cal@climbersofcolor.org.

 

Prerequisites:

• AIARE I certified (may be taken this season, see AIARE I page for application) 

• 2 or more seasons of backcountry travel with at least 5 days/ season

• Familiarity with avalanche forecasting websites

• Backcountry travel gear & familiarity with applications

 

Course FAQs:

 

• I have all the prerequisites except for an AIARE I, can I still apply?

  • If you can receive AIARE I certification this season, yes! CoC will offer three AIARE I this winter, including many scholarship opportunities. 

 

• What if I do not want to become an AIARE instructor &/or ski/snowboard guide?

  • I (Cal’ S.) encourage you to re-think this! There are very few BIPOC AIARE educators and backcountry guides. Let’s work to change this together!

 

• What if this is my first season of backcountry travel, but I am a big shredder?

  • Let’s have a conversation! Contact me at cal@climbersofcolor.org & let's figure it out!

• Is this for beginners, where can I find that?

  • This program is prioritized for intermediate-advanced riders. Check out the Touring Leadership Course here!​

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Itinerary

 

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January: 

• 1-2 field days (1/20 - 1/21 weekend dates), many weekday opportunities, as well

• 1 online workshop day to be held during the week

 

February:

 

• 1-2 field days (2/10 - 2/12 weekend dates), many weekday opportunities, as well

• 1 online workshop day to be held during the week

 

March:

• 1-2 field days (3/10 - 3/12 weekend dates), many weekday opportunities, as well

• 1 online workshop day to be held during the week

 

April: 

• 2+ field days (4/21 - 4/23 weekend dates), many weekday opportunities, as well

• 1 online workshop day to be held during the week

 

May: 

 

• 2+ field days (5/5 - 5/7 options), many weekday opportunities, as well

• Potential volcano/ big mountain mentorship days