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Ski & Ride

Women’s Backcountry Programs

Build Competence, Confidence, Community

Our women’s affinity programs meet you where you’re at—and help you grow from there. Whether you’re going on your first ski tour or pursuing technical ski mountaineering objectives, there’s space for you within this supportive community of women (queer, cis, and trans) and gender-expansive folks. These programs are a space to find your voice, expand your comfort zone, and show up fully. Come build your skills and get after it with a crew that’s got your back.

Women’s Affinity Programs

Women’s AIARE 1 Avalanche Course

Join our Women’s Affinity AIARE 1 Avalanche Course and take your first steps towards becoming a confident and informed backcountry traveler. This course is for women (queer, trans, and cis-gendered) aiming to begin their avalanche education journey in a supportive and community-focused learning environment.

Women’s AIARE 2 Avalanche Course

Continue your avalanche education with our Women’s Affinity AIARE 2 Avalanche Course. This course is for women (queer, trans, and cis-gendered) who are ready to deepen their understanding of the avalanche phenomenon and hone their skills in decision making, terrain management, and tour planning.

Women’s Affinity Intro to Backcountry Skiing Course

Join CMA in the ultimate introduction to backcountry touring. This two-part program is designed to provide a solid introduction to avalanche awareness and backcountry skiing and riding. This course is for women (queer, trans, and cis-gendered) and gender expansive folks wanting to begin their backcountry touring career in a

Women’s AIARE Avalanche Rescue Course

Hone your avalanche rescue skills with our Women’s AIARE Avalanche Rescue Course. This course is for women (queer, trans, and cis-gendered) aiming to expand their avalanche rescue skills in a supportive and community-focused learning environment.

Women’s Boulder Hut Fly-in Backcountry Skiing

Join IFMGA guide Lyra Pierotti and CMA Founding Member Alyssa Young for a fly-in, fully catered, week of skiing at the Boulder Hut, in the Purcell mountains of British Columbia.  Named one of the top 10 huts in North America, it is one of the original, privately held lodges in

Reviews

Over 100 5 star reviews!

Climbing with CMA was a true reflection of mindful mountaineering. As a female mountain lover, I’m used to being the only lady in a group of dudes. Sometimes that doesn’t feel 100% comfortable, particularly when you feel like it’s all about the grind, no emotions allowed. With CMA I felt that I was part of a big bear hug of awesomeness. Guides often set the tone for the team, and Zack set a tone of kindness and respect for everyone. When the going got tough, his humor lightened the mood without jeopardizing the seriousness of what we doing. I will definitely be climbing with CMA again!

“They do the essentials really well: they’re professional, knowledgeable and competent, great teachers, and always keep an eye on safety as every guide service must. What sets them apart for me is that they do all that AND make it FUN. Some of the best times I’ve ever had in the mountains are with this crew. I highly recommend them!”

“I hired this guide crew for technical education and then returned for their recreational guiding services. I’ll continue to lean on Cascade Mountain Ascents to bring me further into the backcountry and advance my technical skills in the mountains.”

Cascade Mountain Ascents is seriously raising the bar for avalanche education—Fun-loving, inclusive, knowledgable, fantastic educators, and all around stellar folks! I would absolutely recommend taking a course or spending a weekend in the mountains CMA!

“Zack and Cascade Mountain Ascents is the best choice for your adventure no matter your skill level. From beginner to seasoned pro, Zack has you covered. His knowledge and skills of all-terrain and mountain situations had us feeling safe and confident all the way.”

“I’ve taken courses with the guides at CMA as well as gotten personal goals accomplished. Each time I’ve come away more competent, more confident, and inspired to take what I’ve learned into my next outing.”

“Fifth time out there with Zack – and as always it was spectacular. Zack‘s calm guiding style – paired with perfect preparation and route planning – push you without ever overwhelming personal abilities and strength. Countless successfully climbed peaks and everlasting memories are the rewards.”

“I have skied with all of the guides at CMA and have had great experiences. They are passionate about their craft, and it shows in the experiences they provide. They know where to find the best skiing and have extensive knowledge of the local terrain.”

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