

Learn backcountry touring basics with a guide on gentle terrain in Big or Little Cottonwood Canyons.
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8 hours
Guides, Avalanche gear, Demo skis
Discover classic backcountry ski terrain in the Wasatch on an 8-hour guided intro. Learn touring basics on gentle slopes in Little or Big Cottonwood Canyons.
Ages 10+ only. Available December to March. Bring your own AT ski or snowboard boots; demo skis or splitboards and avalanche gear can be provided.
For full and half day trips: 50% deposit at booking; balance due 7 days prior. Cancel 8+ days before departure for a full refund; 7 days or less is nonrefundable and cannot be rescheduled. For groups of 14+: balance due 14 days prior; cancel 15+ days before for a full refund; 14 days or less is nonrefundable.
3653 Fort Union Boulevard Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
Red River Adventures has built an exceptional reputation around avalanche safety education and backcountry skiing guided tours. Reviewers consistently praise their guides by name—Carl, Victoria, Sierra, Brian, John, Ryan, Garth, and Jeremy all get called out for being both highly knowledgeable and genuinely fun to spend time with. The instructors strike that rare balance of being approachable and professional while teaching critical safety skills that clients feel truly prepared to use afterward. The AIARE avalanche courses get particularly strong endorsements, with participants noting they leave with confidence and practical frameworks for route planning, terrain assessment, and decision-making in the backcountry. Several reviewers mention the instructors' ability to create a welcoming environment where questions are encouraged, and one woman specifically appreciated the all-female class option for its supportive atmosphere. Whether it's a single guided ski day or multi-day certification course, the team adapts smoothly to changing conditions and different skill levels, making the experience both educational and enjoyable for newcomers and experienced skiers alike.
Thanks to my climbing guide Kaya we had a wonderful day of climbing at the IceCream Parlor in Moab. Not only does she have excellent rock climbing skills she is an excellent instructor! She is also a caring and just a wonderful person to have conversation with. She was able to advise me on different areas to hike and MTB. I couldn’t have asked for a better day! I would highly recommend Red River!!!
Tim Gunnin
March 28, 2026
Thanks to my climbing guide Kaya we had a wonderful day of climbing at the IceCream Parlor in Moab. Not only does she have excellent rock climbing skills she is an excellent instructor! She is also a caring and just a wonderful person to have conversation with. She was able to advise me on different areas to hike and MTB. I couldn’t have asked for a better day! I would highly recommend Red River!!!
Tim Gunnin
March 28, 2026