Browse News By Tag: beginner RSS2016-01-11T19:47:00+0000Fellow Trip OrganizersThe BCMC’s Introduction to Backcountry Skiing courses have been so popular that we have added extra instructors and may have to add extra trips to meet the demand. This is a great learning experience, but in past years participants have not been able to practice these new skills because beginner friendly backcountry skiing trips are few, and they fill up fast. Recently, the beginner friendly trip to Zoa Peak on January 9 had 7 people registered and a waiting list of 16 people. There is clearly more demand than supply, but if every organiser (who is comfortable with backcountry skiing) puts just one trip on the schedule, demand will likely be met! Some other beginner friendly destinations are Needle Peak, Iago, Nak, and Diamond Head. If you allow for a longer amount of time to do these trips, most novice backcountry skiers will feel comfortable. You may consider pairing newer skiers with people who are more experienced; having a designated tail-gunner or sweep is another way to manage groups with varying abilities. If you are a backcountry skier, we hope that you will consider posting a beginner friendly trip to the BCMC schedule, and we hope to see you out in the mountains this winter!  Thank you, Lisa Quattrocchi and Diana Diaconu... Read more

]]>2016-01-11T19:47:00+0000December 30 Intro Day https://bcmc.ca/m/events/view/1355028532 January 5 Intro Day https://bcmc.ca/m/events/view/1355028532 January 26 Intro Day https://bcmc.ca/m/events/view/1355027390 Program Objectives: This trip is an introductory course for those who have never skied outside a resort but would like to pick up backcountry skiing this winter. If you are a beginner-intermediate skier who can ski most 'blue' (intermediate) runs in bounds and want to try backcountry skiing, this trip is for you. This is not an avalanche course and no previous avalanche training is required. Your next step after taking this course is to take the AST-1 avalanche course. What you will learn: Ski gear and how to use it (bindings heel lift, boots up-down mode, extendable poles) Taking care of your climbing skins How to dress to stay comfortable Beacon check and basics of winter safety Skin up technique Introduction to steep skinning technique Basic avalanche safety considerations Staying found and sound Any other questions that you may have What to bring: Backcountry skis (with AT or telemark binding) Compatible ski boots Climbing skins Ski poles Avi gear – a beacon (check the batteries!), shovel and a probe- All of the above can be rented from MEC Warm layered clothes system: thermal underwear, thin fleece, thicker fleece/pile A water-resistant & windproof jacket & overpants A warm puffy jacket Two pairs of gloves, one pair should be mittens (bring hot shot packs if your hands are always cold) Lunch, plus some snacks and drink for one day A small Thermos with hot drink is recommended Blister care supplies if you are prone to blisters Transportation: we will car-pool from the meeting location. Participants will cover the car-pooling costs. After completing this course you should have the confidence to join us on day trips in simple terrain such as Black Tusk Meadows and Three Brothers Mtn which we specifically organize for graduates from t... Read more

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