There’s plenty of untouched pow just beyond the boundary rope but it’s integral you don’t venture into the backcountry without the knowledge and equipment to do so safely.
To help mountain enthusiasts make that transition, the Arc’teryx Backcountry Academy is a multi-day event offering a variety of ski/splitboard clinics, skills development opportunities, and intentionally welcoming spaces for snow-sport enthusiasts looking to take their first steps into the backcountry as well as those in search of deeper learning or experiences.
The Arc’teryx Backcountry Academy is back in-person after a two-year COVID hiatus, and 2023 sees the Arc’teryx Academy moving to Whistler, BC from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to bring the event back to where the brand was born, the rugged Coast Mountains of British Columbia.
Teaming local, certified experts from Altus Mountain Guides with professional Arc’teryx athletes and ambassadors, each Backcounty Academy clinic will run at a 6:1 or 8:1 guest/guide ratio to ensure each participant is able to develop and learn with hands-on guidance in a safety-first environment. Clinics offerings will include womens-only sessions, introductory and educational courses, and skill refresher/evolution sessions for advanced and expert skiers and riders who already have some backcountry experience.
Down in the valley, the Arc’teryx Academy connects Whistler’s long-entrenched mountain culture community through two-nights of snow inspired evening programming at the Whistler Conference Centre featuring inspirational speakers, film premieres, and much more. From 3-5PM each day (Friday and Saturday) head to the conference centre for a vendor village happy hour for your opportunity to mingle with event partners and sponsors. The Arc’teryx aftersales team will be onsite offering care and repair education, warranty intake and on the spot quick fixes when possible.
Arc’teryx was conceived in the Coast Mountains and so much of their iconic gear is tested and perfected there. The Academy is a chance to create an intentional space for snow sport enthusiasts of all disciplines and skill levels to gather, learn, shred, and join the festivities in a world-class community built on a passion for skiing, snowboarding, and the bliss of enjoying perfect powder.
Round 1 of the Arc’teryx Backcountry Academy clinics are now sold out, but click here to learn more about the waitlist process and additional slots going live on January 5th 2023. Don’t forget to keep an eye on @arcteryxacademy social media channels for up to date info. The full event schedule (including film, presentation, live music and other evening programming details) will be released in January.
The Backcountry Academy will offer something for everyone.
From beginners to pros, you won’t want to miss this!
