What services does Powder Pro Lab offer?

Powder Pro Lab specializes in backcountry adventure guiding, avalanche awareness training, and backcountry safety classes for snowmobilers, skiers, and snowboarders. We offer AIARE avalanche courses, backcountry fundamentals, and skills development programs tailored to your needs. Additionally, Powder Pro Lab also offers customized private backcountry education experiences.

Where is Powder Pro Lab located?

The Powder Pro Lab headquarters is in Leadville, Colorado, a prime location for accessing some of the best backcountry terrain in Colorado.

Where do you offer backcountry classes?

Powder Pro Lab operates by a U.S. Forest Service Special Use Permit in the San Isabel National Forest. Our backcountry snowmobile skills classes, snowmobile avalanche safety classes, and AIARE hybrid backcountry access classes are located outside of Leadville, CO and Buena Vista, CO. Courses may be held on Cottonwood Pass, Tin Cup Pass or in the Chalk Creek Area.

What is the "Sled and Shred" experience?

The "Sled and Shred" experience offers a thrilling combination of snowmobiling and backcountry skiing or snowboarding. This unique adventure allows participants to use snowmobiles to reach untouched backcountry terrains for an exceptional skiing or riding experience. For those without personal snowmobiles, Powder Pro Lab offers rental sleds which may be used as part of the Sled and Shred course at an adjusted price. Our certified guides are committed to providing an unparalleled and exciting experience, all while upholding the highest safety standards.

What sort of winter backcountry safety training do you offer?

At Powder Pro Lab, we provide comprehensive avalanche awareness training, backcountry safety classes, and courses designed for safe snowmobiling practices. Our training is tailored to equip you with the skills necessary to assess and navigate backcountry terrain confidently and safely.

Is Powder Pro Lab a certified AIARE Motorized Provider?

Yes! We are proud to be a certified AIARE Motorized Provider, which means our avalanche education and backcountry safety courses meet the standards set by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) and American Avalanche Association (A3), specifically for motorized equipment users.

Who can benefit from your courses and guided tours?

Backcountry training courses are ideal for all levels of snowmobilers, as well as backcountry skiers and snowboarders—from those who are new to the backcountry to seasoned backcountry enthusiasts looking to fine-tune their skills or learn more about avalanche safety.

Are the courses suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! We welcome novices and provide them with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for safe and enjoyable backcountry adventures. Our professional instructors will guide you through every step of the way.

What makes Powder Pro Lab unique in the field of backcountry guiding?

Our unique hybrid experiences that integrate motorized access with backcountry skiing and snowboarding make us stand out. Combining snowmobiles with skiing/snowboarding allows for greater exploration of remote areas, while our dedication to education and safety ensures a rewarding experience.

What will I learn from a backcountry safety class?

You'll learn critical skills like how to read and understand avalanche terrain, snowpack analysis, route planning, and rescue techniques. The aim is to prepare you to make informed decisions in the backcountry for a safe expedition.

Do you provide the necessary gear for the courses and tours?

Essential safety gear is provided, including beacon, shovel, and probe. Participants will need to provide their own personal gear such as skis, splitboards, skins, snowboards, snowmobiles and appropriate winter clothing. Some equipment, including snowmobiles, may be available for course-specific use with an additional equipment fee—please contact us for details.

What should I bring on a Powder Pro Lab adventure?

We recommend bringing appropriate clothing and gear for the conditions, including layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, goggles, a helmet, and a beacon, shovel, and probe for avalanche safety. Specific gear requirements may vary depending on the activity and program you're participating in.

How can I sign up for a Powder Pro Lab course or tour?

To sign up for a Powder Pro Lab course or tour, you can easily do so directly through our website, where our schedule and availability are readily accessible. If you prefer, you're also welcome to give us a call or send an email to secure your spot. For those interested in private tours or private group workshops with customized dates and specific skill focuses, please call us to discuss your options further.

Do you offer private, small-group instruction?

Yes, Powder Pro Lab offers private, small-group instruction tailored to your group's specific needs and goals. Our customized classes and guided experiences are led by certified instructors, ensuring a personalized and focused learning environment for backcountry users eager to enhance their backcountry safety and skills together. Contact us to arrange your specialized adventure.