New to backcountry skiing and riding?

You’re in the right place! There’s nothing better than fresh air, untracked powder, and the freedom that can only come from blazing your own trail in the mountains. But there’s a lot to learn—and it can be a steep learning curve.

Let Big Sky Backcountry Guides show you the introductory skills that will make your first days in the backcountry safe, efficient, and a lot more fun. We’ll go over how to adjust and use your AT, telemark, or splitboard gear; skinning techniques that save you energy; how to transition effectively between uphill and downhill modes; how to stay warm, dry and comfortable in any conditions; and basic avalanche awareness. Plus we’ll ski as much powder as possible!

There’s no reason to suffer, or to learn by years of trial and error. With BSBG, you can jumpstart your backcountry career and enjoy the entire experience from day one

Booking any BSBG experience is an explicit acknowledgement and acceptance of all BSBG policies and procedures.

Details:

  • Please make reservations well in advance--we are a small company with limited guides on staff. To ensure availability, reserve early!

  • No backcountry experience necessary; intermediate to advanced downhill ski ability and good fitness required for AT/Telemark/Splitboard trips.

  • Review the Tour Information and Gear List

  • Tours last 6-8 hours

  • Meeting time is generally 8am

  • Transportation to and from the trailhead is not included, and not available.

  • You will need:

    • Lunch and water

    • Avalanche rescue gear (provided by BSBG if necessary)

    • Alpine touring, telemark, or splitboard equipment (rentals available at Grizzly Outfitters or Gallatin Alpine Sports in Big Sky, or Uphill Pursuits in Bozeman). Rent your gear when you make your reservation to ensure availability.

    • Layerable outdoor ski clothing


Rates:

Prices are person, per day with a maximum 5:1 guide ratio. All reservations include avalanche gear (beacon, shovel, probe, and pack) for those who do not have their own. Our highly-trained and experienced guides are all professional members of the American Avalanche Association, and possess Wilderness First Responder or EMT medical certifications. Lead guides are trained by the American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA). Meet them HERE.

 

  • 1 Person           $500

  • 2 People           $290 ($580 Total)

  • 3 People           $225 ($675 total)

  • 4 People           $190 ($760 total)

  • 5 people           $165 ($825 total)

  • More than 5 requires a second guide at the same rates.

Important Payment and Booking Info

  • Trips must be paid in full at the time of reservation.

  • An $80 administrative fee will be assessed to all refunds.

  • Changes to previously reserved dates (ie. moving a trip up or pushing it back into other available dates) will be assessed a $50 administrative fee.

  • Payments may be made via MasterCard, Visa, or check. Credit Card payments are subject to a 4% processing fee.

  • Cancellation/Payment Details HERE