01/23/2026
January 16–18, I planned and participated in a backcountry hut trip with , led by Cam Spies.
I planned this trip with the intention of making it a private JPL Expeditions group and worked to bring together 6–8 participants. In the end, one friend joined and two others signed up independently through CAG. While it wasn’t the private group I originally envisioned, the outcome was still a strong one.
With a small group of four, all at similar ability levels, the learning was excellent. We spent three days building practical backcountry skills, efficient skinning, transitions, kick turns, track setting, route finding, and avalanche awareness, including elements of AIARE 1–level material.
Instruction happened in the backcountry right outside the hut and through great conversations around the fire at night. The pace allowed us to slow things down, ask better questions, and connect technical skills with real-world decision making.
Planning it, learning alongside a small group, and making new connections made this a clear win for JPL Expeditions.