We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
Longterm experience (50+ days) skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
Start off your backcountry experience in a judgment free zone, where we can all learn the tricks that make this sport (somewhat) easier.
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
FAQsÂ
FAQsÂ
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
Longterm experience (50+ days) skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
We will discuss the importance of risk mitigation, of coaching, of site selection, of defining roles, and of communication. Everyone will have the opportunity to practice skills, and to demonstrate their competency with both the systems as well as the approach. We hope that everyone will end the day being confident in their ability to safely support an adaptive athlete.
FAQsÂ
Home /  Clinics  /  Saturday Clinics
This is a clinic for those who have solid on-piste skills and want to explore the beauty, peace, and adventure that comes with the backcountry.
We will create a safe environment to learn and build confidence to expand our abilities to assess terrain, our movement, and our mindset.
This clinic is open to women and women-identifying, including trans and gender non-conforming folks.
Comfortable skiing/riding on a black diamond run at a North American ski resort
Consistent experience skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
Please note, this is a two-day progression clinic
Join us as we take our skills into steeper and deeper terrain in this two-day backcountry clinic.
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This clinic is all about building confidence and control in technical terrain and overcoming the mental barriers that hold us back. Think steep chutes, drops, and charging the fall line.
We'll focus on foundational techniques that help you commit to more advanced lines with confidence and precision, while keeping things safe, supportive, and seriously fun.
This clinic is open to women and women-identifying, including trans and gender non-conforming folks.
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
How to plan your line. Ask any professional skier and you can bet they have studied their line in advance. The backcountry is full of variables, so it’s important to have a plan
Staying out of the backseat. We will learn how to stay centered on our skis while navigating technical terrain
Commit to it! Learn how to navigate your headspace while standing on top of your line and drop in with confidence
Learn how to set an efficient skin track and make observations about the snow conditions to move safely through the mountains while navigating avalanche terrain
This clinic will take you into the mindset of choosing the best line for you, helping you build confidence through thoughtful terrain assessment.
You’ll learn how to evaluate the environment, read the terrain, and understand what works and what sometimes doesn’t, all while boosting your ability to ski smoothly and with control.
By focusing on visualization and practical tips, you'll be prepared for your line with a clear mind, maximizing both fun and safety on the mountain!
This clinic is open to women and women-identifying, including trans and gender non-conforming folks.
Longterm experience (50+ days) skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
Minimum two years of backcountry skiing/splitboarding experience
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
Ever buy one of those pre-packaged first aid kits that just end up at the bottom of your pack, hoping that you never have to use it, but also having no idea of what's actually inside?
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In this course, we will go over the basics of what to carry in a first aid kit for a day in the backcountry. We will learn how to build a rescue sled in the event that you need to transport a friend out of the backcountry or to a safe zone for rescue.
Please note: This is NOT an all-day SKIING/SNOWBOARDING course, we will practice skills indoors in a classroom setting before moving outside to put these skills to use.
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
Setting a skin track is an art form and takes an eye for terrain and safe travel through the mountains.
This clinic is for those who have never set their own, but want to understand the why behind the skin track, which will also inevitably be filled with joy on the descent.
Those who have been ski touring a lot, but have never broken trail into a new zone of exploration and fun are invited, with bonus points if you bring your favorite snacks to share!
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
This clinic is for those who want to take their backcountry ski access to the next level.
Participants will learn how to access a steep line via rappel, setting one up and safely managing the descent.
Longterm experience (50+ days) skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
Minimum two years of backcountry skiing/splitboarding experience
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
Recommended to have prior experience with ropes and harness work
Want to break into the world of ski mountaineering but are overwhelmed by all the spiky objects and confusing knots? This is the clinic for you!
Learn the basic and foundational skills for skiing in steep terrain, from how to use crampons and an ice axe, to how to safely rappel dowl steep terrain - plus a few tips and tricks to make your time in the mountains more efficient and enjoyable!
Our goal is to make skiing in steep and exposed terrain safer and less stressful.
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
While possessing basic technical rope skills or training can be advantageous, it is not a mandatory requirement for attending a ski mountaineering clinic
Have you been snowboarding at the resort and want to try splitboarding? This is the clinic for you!
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We will go over what avalanche safety equipment you need to carry and how it works, how splitboard equipment differs from a solid board, how to transition from uphill to downhill mode, techniques for walking uphill on a splitboard, and more! This is a great opportunity to learn how splitboarding works and go on your first tour!
This is an affinity clinic, and in addition to all the technical learning, there will be an opportunity to meet and ride with other Queer folks.
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This clinic is open to individuals who identify as members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
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Please note: We do NOT require an AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent for this clinic.
- Comfortable skiing/riding on a black diamond run at a North American ski resort
Consistent experience skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder
What avalanche rescue equipment you need to carry and a refresher on how it works
How a splitboard works and how to transition between walk and ride mode
How to use a splitboard for uphill travel and techniques for efficient skinning
How touring differs from resort riding, including but not limited to equipment, clothing, supplies, and education
Have you always wanted to learn and explore the mountains with your friends?
This clinic is your perfect intro to splitboarding.
We will start the day brushing up on avalanche safety, then learn how to best to move around the mountains, sharing all the tips and tricks to make your splitboarding day more of a success!
Comfortable skiing/riding on a black diamond run at a North American ski resort
Consistent experience skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
In this clinic, you will learn how to approach backcountry terrain and safely and efficiently reaching your objective.
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We will have discussions around trip planning and using weather and avalanche forecasts as decision making factors.
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You will learn tips and tricks for efficient travel uphill, smoother transitions, and how to manage variables on the descent, such as slabs and changing snow conditions.
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You will also learn how to select terrain and visualize your line for a flowy, uninterrupted ride down.
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
This is a technical skills progression day that will teach the use of a rope to increase security on backcountry ski descents.
We will cover belaying, rappelling, lowers, steep skiing and steep snow climbing during a half day ground school.
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Afterwards (conditions allowing), we will put these skills to practice by doing a short ski mountaineering descent that involves steep skiing, belayed skiing and a rappel.
Please note: This is NOT an all-day SKIING/SNOWBOARDING course, we will practice skills indoors in a classroom setting before moving outside to put these skills to use.
Longterm experience (50+ days) skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
Minimum two years of backcountry skiing/splitboarding experience
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
Previous climbing experience with knots and belaying is strongly recommended
Want to take your skills to the greater ranges? You'll need to brush up on your rope work.
We will kick off the day with a morning meeting and safety briefing followed by component skills like roping up for glacier travel then live load crevasse rescue training.
- Longterm experience (50+ days) skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
- Minimum two years of backcountry skiing/splitboarding experience
- AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
Previous climbing experience with knots and hitches is desired
Are you wanting to progress your carving skills and leave clean tracks in the snow?
If so, this clinic is made for you. Come carve your way around Mammoth, finding all the best zones while shredding as a team.
We’ll learn the necessary techniques to elbow carve low and fast, along with fun tricks that can be done on the flats, so you can maximize your fun on any terrain.
Are you ready to rip? If not, get stoked with the videos below:
Learn how to elevate and take your freestyle skills from the park to the backcountry.
In this in-bounds course, we'll go over adjusting your take offs and landings to better suit natural terrain and powder conditions, along with trick how-to's and jumping fundamentals.
We'll start the day in the terrain park and work our way to side hits and natural features around the mountain.
This day will be an on-resort hot lap day, flowing through the whole mountain, finding jumps, skiing as a group, and feeding off each other's energy.
Hot lapping with friends is always be the best part about skiing! We learn so much just from watching our friends ski and then trying it ourselves.
Join in on this fun, high-energy day.
We have the answers for all your Academy questions.
If you can't find what you're looking for below, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at backcountryacademy@arcteryx.com.
Arc’teryx Academies are the pinnacle expression of the Arc'teryx brand in its truest form. Academies are purely focused on progression and education in the mountains.
Over the course of 3 days, we invite you to come and advance your skills, learning from best-in-class athletes and guides. We provide a varying level of clinics, there is something for everyone no matter your skill level.
After an epic day in the mountains, the community comes together for an evening of inspiration rooted in celebration of mountain culture through speakers, music and films. The heart and soul of the Academy is providing accessible mountain education and bringing the community together through a shared love and passion of the outdoors.
Our clinics take place in the world's best classroom: on the mountains where we all love to play. Led by world-class mountain guides and professional athletes, Academy clinics are an opportunity to learn technical skills and put them into practice in the field.
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We build our clinic lineup with an eye to help skiers and snowboarders of all abilities level up their skills. We offer expert-led clinics and workshops for all levels, from beginner to advanced, so there is something for everyone.
We strongly recommend that all participants thoroughly assess our Clinic Difficulty Grading & Prerequisites Guide before purchasing a clinic to ensure compatibility with the rest of their group.
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Once registered for a clinic, you will receive an email confirming your spot. Please ensure you fill out the required waiver from our guiding partners prior to your clinic.
Further details surrounding your clinic, meeting spot, and ticket requirements will be sent to you via email 3 weeks before the Academy.
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The Arc'teryx Backcountry Academy takes place February 20-22, 2026 in Mammoth, California.
All clinics in backcountry areas will be hosted within 30 miles from Mammoth, California.
Clinic locations are subject to change based on weather conditions and avalanche risk ratings. Should your clinic be impacted by weather conditions, we will work out an alternative plan with your group and guide.
Most of our Backcountry Academy clinics require a Level 1 AIARE course (or equivalent international training).
If you haven’t completed this yet, we’ve got you covered!
We’ve partnered with Sierra Mountain Guides to offer a one-weekend AIARE Level 1 course at a subsidized rate in Mammoth, California.
This course will run from Friday, January 9th to Sunday, January 11th, 2026.
Register here and get the skills you need to safely make the most of our clinics.
Please be prepared to have your clinic check in time take place between 7AM and 8AM.
Exact check in time will be confirmed with you directly 3 weeks ahead of the clinic day via email.Â
All clinics should be completed by 4PM.
Clinic check in will take place near Mammoth Village Plaza at 6175 Minaret Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA.
Yes, please bring your own equipment to use on the clinics. Ensure they are properly labelled so they are easily identifiable at the end of the day. We do not take responsibility for lost equipment that is left behind.
Please note: we have a limited number of demo gear onsite. Items will be rented on a first-come-first-served based so we do not recommend relying on a demo for your clinic. If you require a gear rental please ensure you coordinate this in advance of your clinic taking place.
To Check-in:
Yes, we will not be offering rides or transportation to Mammoth, California from anywhere out of town.
To Backcountry clinics:
For all clinics going into the backcountry, you will need transportation to Mammoth for check-in and potentially travel within 30 miles outside of Mammoth for your clinic. Please note, we are currently working out details for a shuttle to support getting attendees to our more congested trailheads. We will update our transport guide accordingly once this information is confirmed.
To In Bounds clinics:
For all clinics taking place in bounds you will need transportation to Mammoth. You will be able to leave your car parked in the village for the day.
Weather and conditions are unpredictable year-round and constantly affect the decisions we make in planning and executing each trip. If conditions do not prove adequate to complete a specific objective in your trip plan, we will have a contingency plan for an alternative objective. If your trip is affected by the weather, you will be contacted as soon as possible.
We do our best to provide the best experience possible under every circumstance. It is not practical for us to issue refunds whenever a client is unsatisfied with the weather. If you have a specific objective in mind, you should understand that while we will do everything in our power to make this happen, your safety will be our priority. An alternate route/plan may be necessary.
Ticket purchases are non-refundable, except as otherwise stated in the Terms & Conditions. No credit will be given for participant’s failure to attend any clinic(s) for which they are registered.Â
If you are unable to attend your clinic, you may transfer your spot to a friend. To do so, please email backcountryacademy@arcteryx.com and CC the friend who will be taking your place. All transfers must be approved in advance. Any payment arrangements between you and your friend are your responsibility; we are unable to facilitate or process money transfers.
Please consider a travel insurance to cover any injuries or other reasons for cancellations. For your protection, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance that combines trip cancellation and interruption coverage, baggage loss, medical coverage, and medical evacuation coverage. Travel insurance is not included in the price.
If the event is cancelled by Arc’teryx, registrants may be extended a full refund (excluding any banking or currency conversion fees).
+ Â Attendee Info
+ Â Gear List
Please take a moment to review our prerequisites carefully and self-assess before booking your clinic.
PLEASE NOTE: A beginner backcountry clinic is NOT for beginner or intermediate skiers or riders. Terrain accessed via the backcountry requires your resort skills to be well developed.
Read more about our difficulty grading, pre-requisites and fitness requirements for backcountry clinics:
Comfortable skiing/riding on a black diamond run at a North American ski resort
Consistent experience skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1Â
**We do offer a selection of beginner clinics that don’t require this training. Please check the specific requirements for each clinic.
Comfortable skiing/riding on a double black diamond run at a North American ski resort
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
Minimum one year of backcountry skiing/splitboarding experience
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
Longterm experience (50+ days) skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
Minimum two years of backcountry skiing/splitboarding experience
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
20+ days skiing/riding a variety of terrain and snow conditions, including powder as well as variable & marginal conditions
Mininum one year of backcountry skiing/splitboarding experience
AST 1, AIARE 1 – Level 1 Avalanche training or equivalent required. AIARE or any other A3 approved Level 1 curriculum is equivalent to AST 1
Our inbounds clinic options are designed for intermediate to advanced resort skiers and snowboarders.
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For specific requirements, please refer to the prerequisites mentioned in the backcountry clinic information above, excluding the 'AST 1 or equivalent' and any references to backcountry experience. Focus on the first bullet point concerning skiing abilities as your guideline.
While possessing basic technical rope skills or training can be advantageous, it is not a mandatory requirement for attending a ski mountaineering clinic.
Nonetheless, we do insist that you come prepared with all the necessary equipment as specified in the ski mountaineering gear list, which includes a harness, two locking carabiners, one rappel device, and one 120cm sling.
