Recently we found out about the Big Mountain Prep Camp being put on by Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa on Jan. 15th-16th and decided we wanted to reach out to them and learn more about the program they were offering. Typically the phrase ‘big mountain’ is not one heard quite often in the midwest and we decided to get in touch with Ron Shepard, the director of all things snowsports at Crystal Mountain.
The Big Mountain Prep camp is by no means designed to turn you into an expert, not even enough info to be dangerous. This is simply a great overview of those non-native skills so that you can be more knowledgeable before heading out on a trip.
As skiers and snowboarders in the midwest, many of us do travel ‘out west’ and the main goal behind the Big Mountain Prep is to provide those in the midwest with techniques that will give them with a much better experience once they have reached their destination. These are techniques, that Shepard hopes, become second nature when you reach the steeps, bumps and powder. Techniques that can make you a better overall skier or rider, saving your legs and allowing you to ride 4 to 5 days, instead of ruining a trip.
Throughout the camp, participants will take part in discussions that give them a better understanding of how exposure effects the mountain on all fronts and theories behind ‘following the sun’, providing you with knowledge on freeze/thaw cycles, reading grooming reports. We know this sounds funny, but truth be told that a run that was groomed early on and allowed to setup overnight, is not going to be as much fun as a run that was groomed later in the evening, providing softer snow to lay out those fresh carves.
Other big topics of discussion that always come up such as avalanches and the dangers of treewells. These discussions are not meant to scare, but make you aware. Good explanations on avalanche danger, including a basic presentation on why they occur. Shepard states ‘If the gates are open and the avalanche danger is high and there are no tracks – there is a reason for it.’ Ever wanted to know about beacons and probes? This will be covered as well.
Ripping turns in a nice gladed out area is the thrill of a lifetime, but what about treewells? The how and why will be uncovered in Shepard’s presentation, giving you an overview of scanning treelines and reading your terrain. If conditions allow, proper techniques for powder will also be covered, this way you don’t overturn in the snow and get stuck. Understanding their terrain limitations, Ron is prepared to cover all of these at a basic to moderate level to make you more comfortable while on your trip and encountering those situations.
The cost of the 2-day camp is $150
January 15th and 16th
Advanced reservations are required by calling 800.968.7686 ext. 2000
For details on other events happening in your area, check out the Events Page.
About Ron Shepard:
This is Ron’s 25th season teaching and his 3rd season as Snowsports Director at Crystal Mountain – His Dad still asks him when he plans on getting a real job. Prior to Crystal Mountain, Ron was a staff trainer at both Park City and Deer Valley Resorts and is a member of the Intermountain Tech Team for PSIA. Ron holds both a Level-3 Alpine and Level-2 Tele PSIA certification.
Written by: J. Dodge