Ski Touring
Ski touring is a form of skiing where skiers climb up mountains on their skis before skiing back down, instead of using ski lifts. It combines traditional downhill skiing skills with hiking and mountaineering abilities. This activity requires special equipment that allows skiers to walk uphill with their skis on, then lock their heels down for descending. When reviewing resumes for ski instruction positions, this term indicates that the candidate has advanced skiing abilities and knowledge of backcountry safety. It's also sometimes called "backcountry skiing" or "alpine touring."
Examples in Resumes
Certified instructor teaching Ski Touring and Backcountry Skiing techniques to intermediate skiers
Led weekly Ski Touring expeditions for groups of 5-10 clients in various conditions
Developed and implemented Alpine Touring safety protocols and training programs
Typical job title: "Ski Touring Instructors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Ski Touring Instructors
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you assess avalanche risk and make decisions about route planning?
Expected Answer: An experienced guide should explain how they evaluate snow conditions, weather patterns, terrain features, and group dynamics to make safe routing decisions. They should mention specific assessment tools and protocols.
Q: Describe how you would design and implement a ski touring training program.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to create progressive learning plans, incorporate safety training, and adapt teaching methods to different skill levels while maintaining proper risk management.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety equipment do you require for a guided ski touring trip and why?
Expected Answer: Should list essential safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel) and explain proper usage. Should also discuss group management tools and communication devices.
Q: How do you teach uphill skiing techniques to beginners?
Expected Answer: Should explain progressive teaching methods, starting with basic movement patterns and building to more advanced techniques while maintaining student engagement and safety.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is your personal experience with ski touring?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate personal passion and basic experience with the sport, including training received and number of tours completed.
Q: How do you prepare for a day of ski touring?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic equipment checks, weather monitoring, and physical preparation, showing understanding of fundamental safety considerations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic ski touring techniques
- Fundamental avalanche awareness
- Basic navigation skills
- Equipment knowledge and maintenance
Mid (2-5 years)
- Group leadership and management
- Advanced touring techniques
- Route planning and assessment
- Emergency response procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development and management
- Advanced risk assessment
- Staff training and supervision
- Complex terrain navigation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No formal avalanche safety training
- Lack of proper certifications
- Limited personal ski touring experience
- Poor understanding of weather and snow conditions
- No emergency response training
Related Terms
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