Want to experience Colorado's finest snow, away from the crowds and expensive lift tickets? Learn to cross-country ski and prepare for the backcountry! We can accommodate students ranging from never-evers to folks who have skied for years. If you've never stood on skis, or have years of experience and just want to fine tune your skills, we've got a class that is right for you! Classes are small - often less than ten students - with at least two instructors. Just ask around - your fellow CMC members are our best marketing tools!

In December, we start with a lecture covering avalanche awareness, clothing, and selection of skis. In January, you'll get three full days on the snow with lessons geared to your level of skill and endurance. The first on-snow day is at a Nordic Center and focuses on helping you to become comfortable on skis, learning basic flat track and uphill techniques. The second ski day will emphasize basic downhill techniques. The third day is the one students look forward to: a trip into the backcountry to apply your newly learned skills and advance your technique. The locations chosen for both the second and third days are tailored to the skill level of your group to maximize your skiing experience. Tuition includes the lecture, three days of lessons and a trail pass for the first day. Where else can you find this value in today's ski market?! Here's a little of what you'll learn:

• Proper skis/gear/clothing for the terrain and conditions you want to ski
• Better balance techniques
• Diagonal stride, including poling
• Downhill maneuvers (includes stopping, which is always good to know)
• Turning maneuvers
• Climbing maneuvers - herringbone, side-step, etc.
• Avalanche awareness

The dates for this year's school include the lecture - Tuesday 6:30pm December 6, 2011 and On-Snow Days:

• Saturdays: January 7, 14, 21
• Sundays: January 8, 15, 22
• Tuesdays: January 10, 17, 24

Tuition: $95 for Denver Group members. This year, we're offering a discount to $80 for returning students who were enrolled in one of the last three years - contact Sharon Bolton at sbolton3@comcast.net for the coupon code. (A $10 processing fee will be added to fees for non-Denver Group members.)

For more information and online registration for the Backcountry Ski Touring School, please visit web registration or BSTS PDF Registration Form and mail it in. If you have questions which are not answered here or on the registration form, please contact BSTS director Joan Rossiter at joan.rossiter@mindspring.com or call 303-241-7968.