Mentorship – Group Tours – Demo Gear – Pow Slayin

Prerequisite –

Must have completed an Intro to Backcountry course or equivalent experience. Should be competent rider on black diamond terrain. Minimum age 21 years old.

Course Description –

So you have taken your level one avalanche safety course, but now what….? This course will give you the opportunity to practice the skills you learned in a safe setting with a certified professional instructor. Daily discussions about the avalanche triangle will lead to a deeper understanding of the decision-making process. In the field you can expect to make observations, practice safe travel techniques, and gain confidence navigating avalanche terrain. On top of the educational component, you get to explore new zones around the Sawatch Range with the help of local mentors who love to ride pow!

Time –

Approximately 8:30am – 4pm each day. May vary based on venue

Cost –

$500 gets access to all ten courses listed below.

Equipment –

ALL equipment included EXCEPT boots and personal clothing. Demo fleet available from Weston Backcountry, please reserve in advance. Lunch NOT included

Venue –

Will be determined on a daily basis based on current conditions. Group will meet for a morning discussion and make plans based on consensus.

Mountain Mentors –

This program will utilize multiple mentors in order to give a variety of perspectives. All mentors are professionally certified instructors.

Dates –

Offered on Thursdays throughout the season. See table below for details

2025 Dates

Jan 23	Jan 30	Feb 6	Feb 13	Feb 20 – Ice Climb	Feb 27	March 6 – Pow Surfing	March 13	April 3	April 11 – Ski Mountaineering
Brandon Slate	Brandon Slate	TBD	Steph Schneider	Lee Dawson	TBD	Brandon Slate	Brandon Slate	Steph Schneider	TBD

Meet the Staff

Brandon Slate

A jibber from Michigan turned Colorado Backcountry addict. Professional Ski Patrol for 16 years including roles as route leader and forecaster. Backcountry Guide for 8 years and an AIARE certified Avalanche Instructor. Ambassador for Weston backcountry. Has an impressive collection of vintage snowboards.

Lee Dawson

A Smoky Mountain adventurer who found a home on the continental divide. Lee has over a decade of experience in both technical climbing and whitewater sports. With a passion for teaching, he focuses on fundamental techniques that help athletes accomplish their adventure goals. Enjoys to read and paint in his off time.

Steph Schneider

A nomadic adventurer who has been living in Colorado since 2019. Has been skiing and snowboarding since age 8 at resorts across the US, Alps and Japan. Found her way into backcountry splitboarding 5 years ago and has boarded 14er, Quandary as well as some local 13ers. Takes student’s on multi-week backcountry ski expeditions each winter. Is always up for a cup of tea!

TBD

Sawatch Mountain Club