Backcountry Ski and Snowboard Clinics
Backcountry ski and snowboard instruction in the Wasatch Mountains
The Wasatch has been drawing skiers and snowboarders of all abilities for decades. Whether you are new to the backcountry or a budding ski or splitboard mountaineer, we’ve got a backcountry skiing course or private instruction for you. We offer everything from intro to backcountry skiing courses to advanced mountaineering courses.
Our backcountry ski lessons and clinics are designed by, IFMGA-certified guide, John Lemnots and will shorten the learning curve for skiers and snowboarders with every level of experience and ability.
We offer Backcountry ski and snowboard courses in the Wasatch Mountains that will take you to the next level in your mountain travel. From lift-accessed backcountry touring, to skiing and riding selections from the “Chuting Gallery,” we will give you the skills to enjoy all that the Wasatch, and beyond, has to offer.
Our guides have more experience in this terrain than just about anyone. Red River Adventures knows where the best Utah snow is and will ensure that you experience the best Backcountry Skiing, Splitboarding and Snowboarding the Wasatch Mountains have to offer.
Check out the video of powder highlights!
Beginner Splitboard Camp
This camp is designed for any snowboarder that is interested in getting into the backcountry. We know that getting started can be intimidating. Choosing the gear, planning an outing, traveling, and shredding safely in avalanche terrain are all complicated. We start with an all-splitboard crew and work from the ground up to create a solid base to use for touring in the backcountry.
This camp was envisioned by John Lemnotis AMGA Splitboard guide and IFMGA mountain guide. It is built by splitboarders for splitboarders!
Includes an AIARE companion rescue certification!
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: splitboard setup, packing, group dynamics, and avalanche rescue
Day 2: Instructor led full day tour starting with planning and practicing route finding with safe backcountry travel to rip some turns!
Topics Covered – We’ll cover everything to get you started splitboarding in the backcountry.
-AIARE companion rescue certificate!!
-board setup and considerations
-packing your avalanche day pack
-avalanche rescue & dealing with an emergency
-intro to avalanche terrain/safety
-transitions
-skinning techniques
-terrain selection
-tour planning
-track setting/route finding
-group dynamics
-managing those flats!
Includes
-Splitboards from Chimera and Pallas snowboards with skins
-Spark R&D bindings
-backcountry pack
-beacon, probe, shovel
Difficulty
Easy to moderate. Participants can expect to skin up to 3000 vertical feet.
Venues
Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons (conditions dependent)
- Difficulty – Easy-Moderate | Vert. varies
- Days -2
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 8:00 AM
- Includes Splitboard package, pack, beacon, shovel and probe!
- 1 Person $575
Dates:
Call to Book
Advanced Splitboard ONLY Camp
The Wasatch has been a proving ground for budding ski and splitboard mountaineers for decades. Our mountains are full of worthy objectives guarded by steep and technical terrain. These same mountains have also been great training for the bigger ranges for those with wider aspirations.
This course is for experienced backcountry riders who want to ride steep and technical terrain that might involve rope work, rappelling, or glacial travel. Our goal will be to use the tools and techniques taught in the course to summit and ski, bigger, technical objectives
This camp was envisioned by John Lemnotis AMGA Splitboard guide and IFMGA mountain guide. It is built by splitboarders for splitboarders!
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Full day in the backcountry learning anchors, crampon technique, ice axe use, rappelling, belaying
Day 2: Instructor supervised day applying day 1 skills
Day 3: Objective-based day, conditions dependent
Topics Covered
-Ice axe use
-Boot and Ski crampons
-boot packing
-anchors
-belaying lead climbers
-belayed skiing/riding
-crevasse rescue
-rappelling
-steep skiing and riding techniques
-avalanche hazard evaluation
-tour planning for large objectives
Includes
-Lead by IFMGA or AMGA certified splitboard guide
-Demo splitboards from Chimera or Pallas (optional)
-field notebook
Prerequisites
-Riders must be experienced backcountry users
-Ability to skin up to 4000 vertical feet/day
-Comfortable riding in variable terrain (think steep black diamonds in any condition)
-experience with companion rescue
Required gear
-Backcountry setup
-Avalanche gear and pack
-Harness
-Helmet
-rappel/belay device (ATC or similar)
Venues
* Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons (conditions dependent)
- Difficulty – Easy-Moderate | Vert. varies
- Days – 3
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 8:00 AM
- Includes Splitboard package, pack, beacon, shovel and probe!
- 1 Person $950
Dates:
Call to Book
Ski AND Splitboard Mountaineering Course
The Wasatch has been a proving ground for budding ski and splitboard mountaineers for decades. Our mountains are full of worthy objectives guarded by steep and technical terrain. These same mountains have also been great training for the bigger ranges for those with wider aspirations.
This course is for experienced backcountry skiers AND riders who want to ride steep and technical terrain that might involve rope work, rappelling, or glacial travel. Our goal will be to use the tools and techniques taught in the course to summit and ski, bigger, technical objectives
This camp was envisioned by John Lemnotis AMGA Splitboard/Ski guide and IFMGA mountain guide and owner, Carl Dec
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Full day in the backcountry learning anchors, crampon technique, ice axe use, rappelling, belaying
Day 2: Instructor supervised day applying day 1 skills
Day 3: Objective-based day, conditions dependent
Topics Covered
-Ice axe use
-Boot and Ski crampons
-boot packing
-anchors
-belaying lead climbers
-belayed skiing/riding
-crevasse rescue
-rappelling
-steep skiing and riding techniques
-avalanche hazard evaluation
-tour planning for large objectives
Includes
-Lead by IFMGA or AMGA-certified splitboard guide
-Demo splitboards from Chimera or Pallas (optional)
-field notebook
Prerequisites
-Riders must be experienced backcountry users
-Ability to skin up to 4000 vertical feet/day
-Comfortable riding in variable terrain (think steep black diamonds in any condition)
-experience with companion rescue
Required gear
-Backcountry setup
-Avalanche gear and pack
-Harness
-Helmet
-rappel/belay device (ATC or similar)
Venues
* Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons (conditions dependent)
- Difficulty – Easy-Moderate | Vert. varies
- Days – 3
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 8:00 AM
- Includes Splitboard package, pack, beacon, shovel and probe!
- 1 Person $950
Dates:
3/19/2025
Utah Backcountry Skiing Photo Gallery
Reviews
Guided Backcountry Ski Tours FAQ
What is Backcountry Skiing?
Backcountry skiing is any type of skiing on unmarked, unpatrolled areas. In contrast to ski resorts that usually have people on marked trails that are groomed and filled with people, backcountry skiing takes place on all-natural terrain. This is a great opportunity for you to experience fresh powder, to see what the backcountry areas look like untouched by humans, and you could even see some wildlife!
How Fit Do I Need To Be for Skiing Tours?
You need to be in moderate shape to go backcountry skiing. The good news is that our trips vary widely in terms of difficulty. If you want to participate in our advanced backcountry ski adventure, you will definitely need to be in great shape for an advanced skiing experience. On the other hand, we also have trips for beginners!
Do We Learn About Avalanche Safety and Beacon Use?
Absolutely! We place safety at the top of our priority list. Backcountry skiing is going to expose you to the very best powder that these canyons have to offer. Avalanches are at the very top of our safety concerns and we will teach you how to deal with them safely, including avoiding avalanches. Before the tour starts, we are going to make sure that we do everything we can to keep you safe. We will assess the weather conditions, provide you with a lesson, and guide you throughout the backcountry in a safe, enjoyable manner.
I’m New To Backcountry Skiing – Is That Ok?
Absolutely! This is a great way to get introduced to backcountry skiing. If you are new to backcountry skiing, we will work with you to make sure that you have a great time!
Where to Backcountry Ski in Utah?
If you are looking for a place to ski in the backcountry of Utah, consider letting our guides take you on a ski tour of the Wasatch mountains. We provide a wide variety of trips that are designed for people of all skill levels. We provide introductory tours in the Cottonwood Canyons, intermediate tours in Days Fork, Silver Fork, Cardiac, and White Pine, and even advanced tours that focus on covering a wide variety of terrain. If you are looking for a backcountry ski tour, give us a call today!
We can’t wait to meet you and help you plan your next backcountry skiing adventure!
Online reviews - 5 Stars
Why Choose RRA? - 20+ years of doing it right!
Since 2003, when rafting operations began, we have gone on to expand our operations into rock and ice climbing, canyoneering, guided ski touring, travel trips and outdoor education. We are so proud that this has garnered over 3,000, 5-star reviews across all online review sites. Land or water our clients rave about the quality of our guides, the depth of their knowledge, their ability to teach and most importantly, how incredibly fun each is. We believe our past guest's comments make the decision easy!
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Your Safety is our number #1 concern
Since we started this journey in 2003 we have safely hosted 100,000+ kids and adults on our rafting, climbing, canyoneering and skiing trips in Utah and around the world. RRA guides are at a minimum state licensed, insured and hold first aid and CPR certifications. Many of our river guides hold additional certifications in swift water rescue and whitewater instruction. Many, though not all, of our rock, ice, ski and canyoneering guides are AMGA trained or certified for the terrain they guide..
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Quality Equipment
When running trips quality equipment is paramount. RRA replaces its equipment on a regular basis. This ensures all the gear required to keep you safe and having fun is in top-notch shape.Back to top
Reputation
RRA has earned the reputation of a professionally ran, top quality guide service. We are a tight knit family run business. Once you adventure with RRA we guarantee you'll be back for more.Back to top
Do I need a reservation
YES! To guarantee space on the trip of your choice, we recommend reservations, especially on holidays and summer weekends. In order to provide the type of trip the we have become known for we do limit the number of people on a launch and we do fill up. In addition a lot goes into the planning of your day, including scheduling of guides, drivers, and ensuring that our equipment is always in top-notch condition. Make a reservation as soon as you know when you want to adventure with us and you'll avoid disappointment. Feel free to call us about reservations at any time @ 1-877-259-4046 or email.
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About Age Limitations
Youth Rate = 15 years and younger!Adults = 16 years and up!
All participants on river trips are required to wear a Coast Guard approved floatation device (PFD). For Fisher Towers trips we use an age limit of 5 and kids must weight at least 40 Lbs. On Climbing and Canyoneering trips the limit is 8 years of age. Ask yourself, what kind of previous outdoor experience has the child had? Use your best judgment on the child's preparedness. On the other end, folks well into their 70's have adventured with us.
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Which Trip to Choose
We are thrilled to have the ability to offer such a wide variety or trips. We also realize that this can create confusion. We are a fantastic resource and look forward to helping you choose the trip that is perfect for you and your group. Please feel free to call or email with any questions you might have, we love to help. Often after a brief conversation with one of our staff the the answers become clear.
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Where do we park/leave our things
There is plenty of secure parking on site at our offices. Valuables can be locked in your vehicles and will be perfectly safe for the duration of your trip. In addition we are more than happy to store anything that you may be extra concerned about in our offices while you are on your trip.
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Are there bugs
Thankfully there are usually very few to no bugs on our trips. The we travel through some of the driest terrain on the planet so there is generally no standing water for bugs to breed in. At the same time the current in the main river section is too swift to allow for breeding. This being said sometimes there are gnats or mosquitoes.
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What to Bring
Red River Adventures tries to make your trip with us as easy as possible!
We will clearly outline what we will provide and let you know what you need to bring. Generally, all necessary group equipment for you to take part in our trips is included. RRA provides avalanche safety equipment, skis, splitboards, poles, and ice climbing boots. We will provide trip-specific lists to assist you in bringing the right things.
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What the Weather is Like
Be prepared for hot (75-110 F degrees) weather during June, July, and August. You can expect cooler temperatures (55-90 F degrees) during April, May, September, and October. August is usually the wettest month (short-lived but intense thunder showers).
April 73|42
May 84|50
June 85|58
July 101|64
Aug 98|63
Sept 89|53
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What Risks Are Involved
Red River Adventures has an unblemished safety record. We personally screen and train our employees vigorously each year. Each of our guides receives extensive instructions on safety, swift water rescue and first aid training. Our Climbing and Canyoneering guides are highly trained and many are AMGA certified. Our trips take place in rugged, remote "wilderness" settings. You should be in good general health to participate. Non-swimmers can go and are more than welcome. We provide Coast Guard approved life jackets for your safety.
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Alcohol Policy
Full and 1/2 Day Raft Trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips. No refund will be given to those drinking alcohol or using drugs prior to a scheduled trip.
Climbing/Canyoneering trips. Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips.
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Charter and Group Rates
Red River Adventures offers a group rate discount of 10% to groups of 10 or more. Additional rates reductions are available for school, club, church, or special-interest groups on some trips. We are happy to, when ever possible, customized trip lengths and itineraries. Please contact us for help in arranging your charter trip or for group rate information.
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What To Pack
Red River Adventures will provide:
- Beacon
- Probe
- Shovel
- Pack
For technical outings ice ax and crampons will also be provided.
Full AT setups are available to rent through our partnership with Black Diamond.
RRA will help coordinate rental in advance.
Ski Touring (recommended)
- Shell – Jacket/pants (soft shell or gortex with little to no insulation)
- Insulating layer – Down or synthetic puffy coat
- Mid Layer – Synthetic or wool zip shirt
- Base layers: Synthetic, wool or silk bottom, underwear and top
- 2 pairs of gloves
- Hat, beanie
- Buff
- Wool or synthetic ski socks
- Helmet & Googles
- Ball cap & Sunglasses
- Bottle/thermos for hot tea
- Sunscreen
- Handwarmers/Toe warmers
General
We are always available to answer any questions you may have. A complete packing list will be emailed prior to your clinic.
Reservations are HIGHLY recommended! Many dates sell out far in advance!
A refundable payment is due to guarantee your reservation.
We accept:
Full Day & Half Day Trips
Payments- A deposit of 50% is due at the time of reservation.
- 7 days prior: 100% of the trip total is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 8 days or more prior to departure: Full refund!
- 7 days or less to departure: 100% of the trip total is nonrefundable and cannot be rescheduled.
Large Groups (14 or more)
Payments- A deposit of 50% is due at the time of reservation.
- 14 days prior: 100% of the trip total is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 15 days or more prior to departure: Full refund.
- 14 days or less to departure: 100% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
Clinics, Courses, and Exams
Payments- A deposit of 50% of the total is due at the time of reservation.
- 30 days prior: 100% of the trip total is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 31 or more days prior to start: Full refund.
- 30 days or less to departure: 100% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
International Trips
Payments- A deposit of 50% is due at the time of reservation.
- 120 days prior: 100% of the trip total is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 120+ days prior to departure: 10% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
- 119 - 60 days prior to departure: 50% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
- 59 days or less to departure: 100% of the trip total is nonrefundable.
Trip Insurance
Insure Your Trip
We highly recommend using a credit card with trip protection or purchasing travel insurance. Popular credit cards with trip coverage include:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred / Reserve
- Capital One Venture X
- Amex Platinum
- BOA Premium Rewards
If your credit card doesn’t cover trip protection, consider these travel insurance providers:
- Allianz
- World Nomads
- Travel Guard
- Tin Leg
Travel insurance can cover your activity, course, clinic, or your entire trip — often at a reasonable cost. Regardless of your trip’s length or size, it’s smart to protect yourself from unforeseen changes.
⚠️ Note: Cancellations or changes for ANY reason are subject to our cancellation policy and will only be refunded as outlined. Please protect your investment by insuring your trip!
Weather Policy
Weather is part of the dynamic environment we operate in. Conditions may not always be ideal.
- If RRA determines conditions are suitable: No refunds if you choose to cancel/discontinue.
- If RRA deems conditions unsafe: We may shorten the route, change the venue, or cancel the remainder of your trip.
Refund Breakdown for RRA-Ended Trips
- Less than halfway complete: 50% of the trip fee is charged.
- Halfway or more complete: Full trip fee is charged.
General Policies
Red River Adventures (RRA) reserves the right to cancel any trip due to weather, insufficient bookings, or other circumstances beyond our control. We will make every effort to reschedule. If a reschedule isn’t possible, bookings canceled by RRA will receive a full refund.
Alcohol
Full and Half Day Raft Trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips. No refund will be given to those drinking alcohol or using drugs prior to a scheduled trip.
Climbing/Canyoneering trips: Alcohol or drugs are not to be consumed before or during trips.
