Backcountry Skiing Adventure: A Small Group Instructional Plan68


This instructional plan outlines a backcountry skiing adventure designed for a small group of 6-8 participants, all possessing intermediate to advanced skiing skills and a basic understanding of backcountry safety protocols. The focus is on enhancing skiing technique in varied terrain, improving avalanche awareness and mitigation strategies, and fostering a collaborative learning environment within a safe and controlled environment. This plan assumes a two-day trip, but can be adapted to a shorter or longer duration.

Day 1: Technique Refinement and Avalanche Safety Awareness

Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Ski Technique & Terrain Management

* Warm-up (30 minutes): Dynamic stretching focusing on legs, core, and shoulders. Review of basic skiing safety procedures (buddy system, communication protocols).
* Technical Drills (60 minutes): Focus on efficient parallel turns, controlled speed management on varied slopes (gentle slopes, moderate inclines), and effective use of poles. Specific drills will be tailored to individual skill levels. This might include:
* Short radius turns: Emphasizing quick transitions and precise edge control.
* Long radius turns: Focusing on maintaining speed and balance over longer distances.
* Steeper slope control: Practicing controlled descents on slightly steeper terrain, emphasizing proper weight distribution and edge angle.
* Terrain Management (30 minutes): Discuss route planning, identifying safe zones and potential hazards (exposed slopes, trees, rocks). Practice traversing slopes, assessing snow conditions, and identifying potential avalanche terrain.

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Avalanche Safety & Rescue

* Lunch (30 minutes): Packed lunch break, providing opportunity for group discussion and questions.
* Avalanche Education (90 minutes): Comprehensive review of avalanche safety principles, including:
* Avalanche formation and types: Snowpack layers, weak layers, and triggers.
* Avalanche terrain recognition: Identifying slope angles, aspects, and vegetation that indicate potential avalanche zones.
* Avalanche safety equipment: Proper use and limitations of avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels. Practice using equipment in a simulated scenario.
* Rescue Practice (60 minutes): Conduct a simulated avalanche rescue scenario. Participants will practice locating a buried transceiver, probing, and excavating. This session will emphasize efficient teamwork and communication.

Evening (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Gear Check & Trip Planning

* Gear Check (30 minutes): Review of individual gear, ensuring everyone has appropriate equipment (skis, boots, bindings, avalanche safety gear, layers of clothing). Address any gear issues or concerns.
* Trip Planning (30 minutes): Detailed discussion of the next day's route, potential hazards, and contingency plans. This includes reviewing weather forecasts and potential changes in snow conditions.

Day 2: Backcountry Skiing & Rescue Scenario

Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Backcountry Skiing Excursion

* Sunrise Briefing (30 minutes): Final weather and snow condition assessment. Review of the day's planned route and safety procedures.
* Backcountry Skiing (4 hours): Guided ski tour focusing on applying the skills learned the previous day. This should include a variety of terrain, allowing for application of different techniques. Instructor will monitor participant performance and provide feedback. Constant assessment of snow stability will be conducted throughout the excursion.

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Advanced Rescue Scenarios & Debrief

* Lunch (30 minutes): Packed lunch break at a designated safe location.
* Advanced Rescue Scenario (60 minutes): Conduct a more complex rescue scenario, incorporating multiple buried transceivers and challenging terrain. Emphasis on leadership, communication, and efficient rescue techniques.
* Debrief & Wrap-up (90 minutes): Group debriefing session to review the trip, highlight key learnings, and address any outstanding questions. Focus on individual performance, teamwork, and safety. Post-trip feedback forms will be distributed.

Safety Considerations:

* Risk Assessment: A thorough risk assessment will be conducted before and during the trip, factoring in weather conditions, snowpack stability, and participant experience.
* Emergency Plan: A detailed emergency plan will be in place, including communication protocols, evacuation procedures, and emergency contact information.
* First Aid: A qualified first-aid provider will be part of the group.
* Weather Monitoring: Regular weather monitoring will be conducted throughout the trip.
* Permits & Regulations: All necessary permits and regulations will be followed.

Assessment:

Participant performance will be assessed based on their skiing technique, avalanche safety knowledge, and participation in rescue scenarios. Feedback will be provided both during and after the trip. Post-trip surveys will also help to gauge overall satisfaction and identify areas for improvement in future trips.

Note: This plan is a template and can be adjusted based on the specific group's skill level, experience, and the chosen location. The safety of participants is the highest priority and all decisions will be made with safety as the primary concern.

2025-05-08


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