Backcountry Training
Train to Compete • 13+ years
Program Details
The PCSS Backcountry Program is designed for athletes ages 13+ who are ready to take their freeride skiing beyond the resort and into the mountains. This program complements winter training by teaching the foundational knowledge, safety practices, and technical skills needed for responsible backcountry travel, led by experienced PCSS coaches and certified avalanche professionals.
The program includes five on-snow sessions focused on terrain awareness, decision-making, and safe touring practices. A minimum of five athletes is required for the program to run, keeping group sizes small and attention focused. Athletes interested in the program are required to complete a Backcountry Eligibility Request before registering — our coaching staff will review it and follow up to confirm your spot or recommend a better starting point.
The program includes five on-snow sessions focused on terrain awareness, decision-making, and safe touring practices. A minimum of five athletes is required for the program to run, keeping group sizes small and attention focused. Athletes interested in the program are required to complete a Backcountry Eligibility Request before registering — our coaching staff will review it and follow up to confirm your spot or recommend a better starting point.
Recommended Age
13+ years
Program Dates
Dec 1 - April 30
Competitions
None
Questions? Contact:
sstroud@parkcityss.org
Good Fit
Athletes 13+ who are confident skiers on double black diamond terrain and ready to build foundational backcountry knowledge and safety skills under certified guidance.
Not the Right Fit
Athletes who aren't yet confident on double black diamond terrain, or who are looking for a competition-focused program — this program includes no competitions.
What to Expect Each Session
Pre-Season Orientation
(Session 0)Introductory meeting with Head Coach Sawyer Stroud covering gear needs, expectations, and trip planning.
Avalanche Training
(Session 1)A multi-day, in-field course taught by a certified avalanche educator. Athletes complete coursework and hands-on fieldwork toward Avalanche Level 1 (Avy 1) certification, typically over 2-3 full days.
Objectives & Skill Development
(Sessions 2-5)Guided tours covering avalanche rescue, route finding, snowpack analysis, terrain management, jump building, and safe travel techniques — practicing with beacons, probes, and shovels while building real-world confidence.
Backcountry Training Training
Just a $100 deposit
required to hold a spot. After backcountry dates are set in November, you may confirm (balance invoiced)
or decline (deposit refunded).
Included in Program Fees
- Level-appropriate avalanche safety course led by certified educators
- Small group ratios with additional staff for backcountry safety
- Variety of training locations across the Wasatch (flexible based on conditions)
- Avalanche Level 1 certification course fees
p20-BackcountryTraining
Not Included in Program Fees
- Backcountry touring equipment
- Backcountry safety gear
Training Schedule
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One session per month • Dates to be announced
December
January
February
March
April
Coaching Staff
Sawyer Stroud
Freeride Head Coach
sstroud@parkcityss.org
Mike Campbell
Freeride & Freeski Director
mcampbell@parkcityss.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is required for the Backcountry Program?
The PCSS Backcountry Program is open to freeride athletes ages 13 and up. Athletes should be confident skiers on double black diamond terrain before heading into real mountain conditions.Do I need to complete an eligibility form before registering?
Yes — All Backcountry athletes must complete the Backcountry Program Eligibility Request before registering. Our coaching staff will review it and follow up to confirm your spot or recommend a better starting point.Does the Backcountry Program include avalanche certification?
Yes — athletes earn their Avalanche Level 1 certification as part of the program itself, so no prior certification is required to join.How many sessions are in the Backcountry Program?
The program runs for five sessions, each led by avalanche certified coaches as athletes build skills and confidence in the backcountry.Who leads the Backcountry Training sessions?
Sessions are led by avalanche certified coaches, ensuring athletes learn to explore the backcountry safely and responsibly.
