Say it Ain't So

One of the most wicked photos ever ! National Geographic photo.

With the Chilean volcano continuing, we had to make a change of location from Bariloche, Argentina to the infamous El Portillo, Chile. Up to 9" of ash was dumped on our target ski grounds of Bariloche. Since all I can think about is visions of trying to ski in Pompeii, it was the only good decision to chase the sun and find better conditions elsewhere.

We're getting everything packed and meeting up tomorrow to over the final plans of what we'll take and what we'll leave behind. Skiing close to Aconcagua, the highest North American summit is a great experience. Skiing in Patagonia during the sweltering summer months, while the dog days of summer in New Mexico are taking full responsibility for creating my lowest energy state, is also an alluring prospect. I love winter and what cold temperatures bring to the land.

Bariloche, Argentina. PSIA and AIARE combination course.

Well, the poster pretty much says it all. Well, not really. Bariloche is one of the newest places that Americans are starting to visit as the cost is lower than Portillo, Chile, or Las Lenas, Argentina. Not only that, but the views are spectacular since there are Patagonian alpine mountains and large lakes in the valley floors. The temperatures are generally mild, the food is great, and there's more to do than sit around and drink on your time off from skiing.

This is the first time in history that PSIA is going outside the USA. Chris Chaput is the PSIA Instructor Trainer from Telluride Ski Area who teaches ski school Ski Instructors around the world. Last year he went to China to train their ski school members. He also made it to Taos Valley Ski School and Ski Santa Fe, both in New Mexico. For this course he is taking the clinic into the backcountry as well as the groomers to provide a PSIA Level 1 Certification.





AIARE is the world wide standard in avalanche instruction. We will be covering all the AIARE level 1 material and providing a certificate for this course as well.

We feel that integrating these two courses is a great way for those ski instructors, entry level ski guides, or anyone who wants to become a good backcountry skier to get a great deal of hands-on before the North American winter season approaches. The students will be sharp and ready to use their new skills without having to take precious time off of work in November or December and will go into the following season with TWO certifications!

Personally, I'm really excited to see this program go and am looking forward to providing the same course in the winter season in the USA and perhaps Europe.

Even though it's 106F at Red Rocks, Nevada already, and the fires are burning and razing Arizona, we have our sites on cooler places.

If you would like to register, please click here.