The door to Backcountry Bliss
Find freedom in the Andes with APEX Backcountry Guides as we show you all the skin track tricks, demystify avalanche gear, and paint a clear picture of what you should be focussing on to get the most out of every backcountry tour.
Intro to Backcountry
Two remarkable days of backcountry instruction in the fundamentals of safety and best practices for getting the most out of your time skiing and snowboarding.
GREAT FOR:
Cruiser to Expert
4 Guest: 1 Guide ratio
8 Guest max
TERRAIN:
60% mountain, 40% trees
Strong to Expert/Pro
Strong:
I approach challenges at the resort with consideration but feel confident in my abilities in all snow conditions. I'm just looking to get the key pointers necessary to take my skills to the backcountry!
Expert/Pro:
I have excellent to impeccable technique at the resort including off-piste and powder skiing but I have little to no backcountry experience. I'm looking to get into freeriding!
Cuisers to Proficient
Cruiser:
I prefer moderate pitches and have ventured off-piste a bit. I slow down in challenging or treed terrain and challenging snow conditions, but I am able to control my turn size and shape without major problems. Let's go!
Proficient:
I ride or ski at a faster pace in the open and on moderately steep pitches. I am slightly hesitant in trees or when snow conditions are challenging. Show me the way!
This remarkable experience provides you with
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Two days of guided instruction
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Lunch comprised of the best locally sourced ingredients
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BCA Rescue Kit: Transceiver, Shovel, Probe, and Backpack
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Activities Insurance
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Aprés debriefing at the bar
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Door to Door Transportation to and from activities
Day 1
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8:00 Pickup at your lodging in Malalcahuello
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8:05 Transportation to the mountains
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9:00 Trailhead Safety Briefing
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9:15 Skin application and techniques of care
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9:30 Begin skinning towards the determined zone
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10:00 Explanation with demonstration of companion rescue procedures of beacon, probe, and shovel
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10:30 Individualized practice sessions
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11:00 Group beacon search and recovery simulation under stress
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11:15 Debrief and snack
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11:30 Skin to objective peak while receiving tips for efficiency that will grow your confidence
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12:30 Lunch in the Araucania Andina
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1:00 Descend slope of choice after short briefing on standards of practice and etiquette
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1:45 Changeover and re-skin back to the ridgeline
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3:00 Descend slope en-route to vehicle
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4:00 Transportation
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5:00 Cheers to debriefing in a bar!
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6:00 Drop off Transportation to your lodging
Day 2
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7:00 Pickup
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7:05 Transportation to the Mountains
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8:00 Trailhead Safety Briefing
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8:15 Begin ascent
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Make laps practicing what was learned the previous day
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12:30 Lunch in the Araucania Andina
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1:00 Keep shredding until we're out of time or legs to keep going
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4:00 Transportation back to your lodging
I have never skied off the trails at a resort, is this for me?
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You will find it much more enjoyable to begin your backcountry adventures when you have some off-piste abilities under your belt. A lesson with a certified instructor at your home resort is our first recommendation in the road to increasing up your abilities and the fun you can have.
Is the rescue equipment of beacon, shovel, and probe included in this program?
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We recommend that anyone who is serious about backcountry exploration invest in the adequate equipment so as to familiarize themselves with its use under the guidance of our professionals.
All that gear is expensive, can I rent?
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We have a limited number of full gear setups including beacon, probe, shovel, and backpack available. Please advise us upon booking that you will need rescue equipment.
Is this a certified course?
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APEX's Intro to Backcountry is the first step in becoming aware and proficient in the use of your gear but does not replace taking focussed courses. We can help offer solutions if you are seeking recreational or professional certifications in your journey into the mountains. With knowledge comes empowerment and responsibility.
What it's about
This two day offering from APEX is just what the seasoned pros are hoping you'll catch wind of. Why? It's simple, without a fundamental understanding of avalanche rescue you pose as much of a risk to yourself in the backcountry as to everyone else.
Who it's for
Anyone looking to leave the resorts to pursue untouched powder treasures in the backcountry should get in on this informative outing.
Reccomendations
We can help ensure you have the most memorable experience by giving you our personal recommendations based on your particular desires. Please get in touch with us directly today by giving us a call.
Just wingin it?
We dig your style, just send us your location to make sure you're in our pick-up zone and we'll come through in the morning.
Let's cut to the chase and have a real live conversation. We're happy to hear from you!
