This program is an introduction to skiing in the backcountry. The program includes an evening session to discuss the program and equipment. Following the evening session there will be 4 trips with the intention to progress into more complex terrain. Due to the demands for this program we are expanding the program to 24 participants. Participants will be split into 2 groups once selection has occurred.

The BITS Program is not a skiing instruction program. Participants need to have downhill skiing ability to at least an intermediate.

The requirements are that participants have AST 1 prior to attending the 2nd trip, which is January 20, 2018. The ACC Calgary is offering AST 1 for 8 participants on December 2, and 3, 2017 with priority given to those signed up in the BIT program.

November 16, 2017 Meet at 6:15 to 9:00 p.m. – Nicholls Family Library – 1421 – 33 Street SW (Next to Westbrook Mall – near the entrance to Westbrook C-train) – Everything you need to know to get ready for back country skiing, including gear, equipment, and what to pack. Open to all members.

Dec 1,2,3 AST 1 – 8 people - priority is to those in the BITS program who do not have AST 1 (Sign up for this AST 1 separately)

Session 1 - Dec 9, 2017 Meet at 7:00 am at Shouldice Arena for a trip to Chester lake to practice with gear and view snow and Avalanche conditions – there will also be a quick refresher for searching and rescue practice.

Session 2 - Jan 20, 2018 –Meet at 7:00 am at Shouldice Arena- Location TBA - choices may be Burstall Pass – Chickadee Valley – Taylor Lake, Hidden Lake, Deception Pass, Wolverine Pass/ Purple Bowl, Narro Shoulder, Stanley Glacier, Lillian Lake, Bow Summit, Sherbrooke Lake, Ogden Shoulder, Black Prince, Gypsum Mines, Common Wealth Pass.

Session 3 - Feb 24, 2018- Meet at 7:00 a.m. – Location TBA

Session 4 - Finale and Party March 24/25, 2018 –Meet at 7:00 a.m. at Shouldice Arena and head out to Parkway – Location TBA – Choices may be Crowfoot Pass, Helen Shoulder, Dolomite, Bow Summit – overnight at Mosquito Creek, which includes some year-end BITS celebrations. A catered supper including alcohol will be provided.

1. Sign up for the BIT program;
2. Complete the application you will be sent once you sign up;
3. Your application will be reviewed and if you are accepted on the program you will be sent notification of your acceptance via email;
4. Once accepted you will be asked to send $100 registration fee via etransfer to treasurer@acccalgary.ca;
5. Ensure you provide your name, address, postal code, and password for the etransfer in a separate email to the treasurer.