Whether you are an expert or a novice, a skier or a snowboarder, the San Juan's offer magnificent terrain for all backcounty skiing enthusiasts. Our expert guides will assist you in learning the techniques and skills necessary to safely enjoy the winter backcountry environment. Once you have had a taste of "earning your turns" you will never look at resort area skiing quite the same way.

Custom Program Backcountry Skiing Rates:
1:1 $325; 2:1 $220; 3:1 $170; 4:1 $150
All rates are per skier, per day. Special rates are available to groups.

AT ski rental packages available to SJMG guests for $25 per day.

We also rent AT gear to the public, check our rentals page for details.

Techniques and skills covered include:

• Route-finding and terrain recognition
• Essential equipment
• Winter survival skills
• Use of "skins" and other ascending methods
• Avalanche beacons
• Backcountry travel protocols
• Avalanche awareness and snow science

Participants should have a day or two of acclimatization and a strong general aerobic condition prior to their trip. Combining a ski mountaineering trip with some avalanche awareness training or ice climbing can be a great way to enhance your itinerary.

Going to ski the Houte Route soon? Practice the skills you need here in the San Juans!