Our very own Lead Coach for Mountain tracks - Dave Meyer - joins the BASI Mountain Safety team as a Trainer

 Season 24/25 Begins: First Tracks of Winter

A Stunning Autumn in the Alps

Autumn seemed to stretch endlessly this year, with blue-sky days and warm temperatures bathing the Alps in golden hues. As the season neared its end, I headed to Zermatt to observe a BASI Mountain Safety course, journeying above 3000m to find the snowline, all under the imposing shadow of The Matterhorn.

Training the Next Generation of Ski Instructors

BASI (British Association of Snowsport Instructors) plays a vital role in training UK ski instructors. Its structured program progresses toward the prestigious International Ski Teacher Diploma (ISTD), the only qualification that enables instructors to teach backcountry skiing and ski touring.

What is the BASI Mountain Safety Course?

As part of the Level 3 ISIA award, instructors must complete a Mountain Safety (MS) module, allowing them to guide off-piste within resort boundaries. This intensive five-day training covers:

• Avalanche safety tools: Effective use of transceiver, shovel, and probe.
• Navigation skills: Map reading, orientation, and feature recognition.
• Avalanche awareness: Understanding forecasts, snowpack analysis, and performing extended column tests.
• Ski touring basics: Equipment handling, technique, and group management.

For many, this is their first exposure to off-piste safety essentials. Watching these aspiring instructors grow their skills was inspiring, as they practised everything from route planning to keeping their clients safe while enjoying the mountain environment.

Observing and Joining the BASI Mountain Safety Team

This November, I observed a BASI Mountain Safety course for the first time, immersing myself in the content and assessment standards. The experience marked a personal milestone—joining BASI’s team of trainers.

With years of experience guiding with Mountain Tracks, this opportunity allows me to further my expertise while contributing to the training of future instructors. I'm eager to incorporate these new insights into our guided trips, ensuring Mountain Tracks remains at the forefront of off-piste coaching and ski touring adventures.

Winter Has Arrived in the Alps

As I write from the Tarentaise, the first storms have brought significant snowfalls. Val Thorens has opened, and I'll soon head to Tignes to begin the season’s first teaching week. Here's to:

• Hero snow,
• Endless powder lines, and
• Epic ski touring adventures!

Stay tuned for updates on our latest adventures and courses.

Interested in ski touring or off-piste adventures? Explore our guided trips for Winter 24/25!

Off-Piste Coaching Intro Zinal - mountaintracks.co.uk

Off-Piste Coaching Advanced Zinal - mountaintracks.co.uk

Off-Piste and Ski Touring Skills Zinal - mountaintracks.co.uk

Off-Piste Coaching Intro in the Haute Tarentaise Valley - mountaintracks.co.uk

Off-Piste Coaching Development Haute Tarentaise - mountaintracks.co.uk

Off-Piste and Ski Touring Skills in the Haute Tarentaise Valley - mountaintracks.co.uk

Ski Touring Skills 3 day Chamonix - mountaintracks.co.uk

Glacier travel, Mountain awareness and Avalanche training course - mountaintracks.co.uk

We’re also proud to partner with ORTOVOX, the leader in both avalanche safety equipment and top-class ski clothing. Their innovative gear keeps our guides and clients safe, warm, and prepared for every adventure in the mountains. ORTOVOX’s commitment to quality and safety perfectly aligns with our values.❄️