Snow Sports and Winter Activities
Avalanche Level I
Enjoying winter safely in the backcountry involves knowing how to recognize potential avalanche hazards. This course will focus on snowpack structure, snow metamorphism and more importantly, avalanche dynamics, terrain analysis, stability evaluation, route finding, safety and rescue. Day 1 is from 4:30-10:00pm at the Rec Center. Day 2 is optional and in the field from 7:00am-7:00pm. Fee includes equipment, instruction and clinic handouts.
| Date | Days | Times | Fee | Code |
| 12/4-5 | F,Sa | 12/4; 4:30-10:00pm, Conf. 4 | $50 | 320185A |
| 1/22-23 | F,Sa | 1/22; 4:30-10:00pm, Conf. 4 | $50 | 620187A |
| 2/19-20 | F,Sa | 2/19; 4:30-10:00pm, Conf. 4 | $50 | 620187B |
| 2/26-27 | F,Sa | 2/26; 4:30-10:00pm, Conf. 4 | $50 | 620187C |
| 3/12-13 | F,Sa | 3/12; 4:30-10:00pm, Conf. 4 | $50 | 620187D |
Avalanche Rescue Clinic
This is one day of safety training you don't want to miss if you plan on riding or traveling in the Colorado backcountry! We will teach you everything you need to know about using avalance beacons, probing, and working to find those buried in avalanche terrain. Don't be caught in a tough situation without this course under your belt! Previous Avalanche Level 1 course experience recommended. Pre-trip meeting is mandatory.
| Date | Days | Pre-Trip Meeting | Fee | Code |
| 2/13 | Sa | 2/11; 6:00pm, OP Office | $25 | 620185A |
| 3/6 | Sa | 3/4; 6:00pm, OP Office | $25 | 620185B |
Building Snow Shelters
Expand your winter skill set. Learn techniques for building snow shelters that work with Colorado's unique continental snow pack. After a day of learning, spend the night in a shelter you have constructed. You will also learn about setting up winter camps and cold weather considerations. All gear and instruction is provided. Food and transportation is not included.
| Date | Days | Pre-Trip Meeting | Fee | Code |
| 3/6-7 | Sa,Su | 3/4; 6:00pm, OP Office | $40 | 620158A |
Cross Country Ski Instruction (Half-day)
This course is designed for first time skiers who want to find out what it's like to cross country ski. The course will run from approximately 9am to 3pm. Balance and basic movement on skis is emphasized with instruction on gentle terrain. Fee includes instruction and entry level equipment. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee correct boot size due to demands.
| Date | Days | Times | Fee | Code |
| Available Upon Request |
Snowshoe Tour
Strap on some snowshoes and come on a breathtaking tour through the mountains. Fee includes snowshoes and instruction, but not transportation. No experience necessary. Get a group of friends together and schedule a trip!
| Date | Days | Times | Fee | Code |
| Available Upon Request |
Shoe and Soak
Come join us for a nice snowshoe through the woods and relax at the end of the day while you soak in a hot spring. Fee includes equipment but not entrance fee to hot springs. Transportation will be arranged by carpool.
| Date | Days | Times | Fee | Code |
| TBD | $25 |
All or part of the CU Outdoor program is conducted on public lands under special permit from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. National Park Service, Boulder County Open Space and/or Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation.
