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Intro to Backcountry Ski and Snowboard Mentorship

with Sandy Ward

In partnership with
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The Backcountry Ski and Snowboard Mentorship Program is a structured program designed to provide new or seasoned backcountry enthusiasts with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to safely and responsibly navigate off-piste terrain.

Join Indigenous Women Outdoors for our 6th Backcountry Mentorship program this winter! If you are an experienced skier or snowboarder, we would love to invite you to join us in learning and sharing your experiences in this unique mentorship program.

This year, we are hosting an Intro program where participants can gain backcountry skiing/snowboarding experience at an introductory level. You will get certified with the Avalanche Skills Training level 1, learn about navigation, weather forecasting, safe travel habits, and so much more. All of this amongst other Indigenous women.

Our season end “Celebration of Learning” is an overnight trip with IWO backcountry alumni and rad influencial female riders in the snow industry to the Kee’s and Claire Hut in the Whistler Backcountry.

Details:

  •  Dates:
    • January 8-10: AST-1
    • January 17: Out day
    • February 7: Out day
    • February 28: Out day
    • March 28-29: Whistler Heli Skiing Ropes Course
    • April 3-4: Kees and Claire Hut Trip
  • Time:
    • Full days from 8AM to 5PM
  • Location:
    • Whistler, BC, and along the Sea to Sky
  • Cost: 
    • $150 for the entire program

Sorry! This program is paused.

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Program Leaders

Sandy Ward

Program Lead

Rock Climbing Socials, Ski & Snowboard Socials, Clinics & Backcountry Mentorship

Sandy Ward is a member of the Lil’wat Nation, and an avid snowboarder, mountain biker and climber. She has been snowboarding for 20 years and has been a competitive halfpipe rider, snowboard instructor and backcountry enthusiast.
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