The University of Idaho’s Outdoor Program offers students opportunities for snow and ski adventures all over the Pacific Northwest this semester.
UI outdoor program | Courtesy
Student takes advantage of back country skiing
According to the Outdoor Program winter schedule, some of the trips this year include Schweitzer Ski Resort, Silver Mountain, Lookout Pass, Blue Mountain, Moscow Mountain, Mt. Hood and the Aneroid Basin.
Prices range from $15 to $200 with transportation and group equipment included with the exception of the Schweitzer trip lift ticket.
“We are partially subsidized by student fees so it’s never going to be cheaper than it is right now, so if you want the experience do it now,” Director of Outdoors Program Trevor Fulton said.
Discounted lift tickets, carpooling and an opportunity to meet students with similar interests are all advantages of using the Outdoor Program. The program also ensures students will maximize their time on the mountain by staying on the mountain from open to close said Team Leader Patrick Mahoney.
According to Fulton, the programs are 98 percent open to beginners with little to no experience necessary.
“Our programs are for beginners, we want to plant that seed, plant that passion and then let students go off and explore that the rest of their lives,” Fulton said.
Trips and safety classes are offered to students to gain enough experience to feel comfortable taking on a more challenging program. Fulton said some students sign up for safety classes to ensure they will get the experience required right before their trips.
Mahoney said he encourages the resort trips for students just starting out. He also said he suggests buying a private lesson to boost confidence.
Backcountry skiing is also an option for those interested, and Mahoney considers it a different experience all together.
“I love going to the resort on a good powder day, but there is no comparison to skiing backcountry,” Mahoney said.
The Aneroid Basin trip in the Wallowa Mountains of Oregon does require some experience. This trip is considered to be one of the most advanced trips offered, but also the most unique, Fulton said.
“One of the benefits of going on this program (Aneroid Basin) is that participants are able to learn some skills while on the trip. We practice safe travel in avalanche terrain,” Fulton said.
The Aneroid Basin trip is a favorite for Mahoney. He believes it is a special place, and feels privileged to be one of the few groups to enjoy it, he said.
Fulton said a lack of time and money and lack of experience aren’t reasons to miss out on the adventures. He said these trips are more affordable and beginner friendly than most people think.
“(It) allows participants to stay in this historic area and experience a very unique setting,” he said.
Registration begins Jan. 11 in the Outdoor Program office located within the Student Rec Center (SRC). Fees are due at sign up and are non-refundable.
For more information, visit the Outdoor Program office located in the SRC, open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Brie Savens can be reached at [email protected]