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Gear advice, trip reports, and safety education from our IFMGA & AMGA certified guides.

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Jun 20, 2026Todd Passey

Skiing Alaska: Valdez, the Alaska Range, and Anchorage Backcountry

From Valdez couloirs that drop summit-to-road, to glacier basecamps in the shadow of Denali — Alaska delivers some of the most consequential and rewarding ski mountaineering on the planet. ITCOG guide Todd Passey breaks down three distinct zones of Alaskan skiing.

Apr 5, 2024Todd Passey

How to Train for a High-Altitude Ski Mountaineering Expedition

A guided expedition to Denali, the Alps, or the Andes demands months of deliberate preparation. ITCOG's Todd Passey shares the exact fitness, skills, and gear planning framework he uses with clients preparing for their first major ski mountaineering objective.

Mar 18, 2024Todd Passey

Crevasse Rescue 101: What Every Glacier Skier Needs to Know

Crevasses are the defining hazard of glacier travel. IFMGA guide Todd Passey explains the fundamentals of crevasse rescue — from prevention and rope travel to anchor building and hauling systems — so you know what to do if the worst happens.

Feb 12, 2024Todd Passey

Skiing the Alps: A Guide to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc with ITCOG

Chamonix is the spiritual home of alpinism and one of the world's premier ski mountaineering destinations. IFMGA guide Todd Passey breaks down what to expect, the best objectives, and how to prepare for a guided trip in the Alps.

Aug 15, 2023Todd Passey

6 Reasons to Take Avalanche Level 1 Safety Training

Steep slopes stacked with deep, fresh snow are the best ingredients for great skiing — and increased avalanche probability. Todd Passey breaks down the top reasons to take Avy 1 training.

Dec 10, 2022Todd Passey

Your Checklist Before a Day of Backcountry Skiing

There is a lot to remember before every backcountry ski day. ITCOG founder and IFMGA guide Todd Passey shares a simple checklist framework to keep you organized and safe.

Nov 4, 2022Todd Passey

10 Things to Do After Completing Your Avalanche Level 1 Training

You've finished your Avy 1 course — now what? Todd Passey shares the 10 most important next steps to build real backcountry competence and stay safe in the mountains.

Apr 22, 2022Todd Passey

Skiing and Camping on Alaska's Pika Glacier

A first-person account of a week on the Pika Glacier in Denali National Park — crevasse travel, steep couloirs, base camp life, and what it's really like to ski the Alaska Range with ITCOG.

Mar 10, 2022Todd Passey

The Complete Backcountry Skiing Gear List: Pro Guide Recommendations

What gear do you actually need for a day of backcountry skiing? ITCOG's certified guides break down the complete list — from technical equipment and safety gear to clothing and personal items.

Jan 18, 2022Winslow Passey

How to Layer Your Clothes While Backcountry Skiing

If you love spending time in the mountains but always end up cold, this one's for you. Winslow Passey shares her layering system to stay warm and comfortable all day in the backcountry.

Jan 5, 2022Todd Passey

A Complete Guide to Backcountry Skiing: Gear, Safety & Getting Started

IFMGA-certified guide Todd Passey breaks down everything you need to know about backcountry skiing — from choosing the right gear and clothing to avalanche safety and building fitness.

Dec 15, 2021Todd Passey

5 Classic Ski Mountaineering Objectives in Utah's Wasatch Mountains

IFMGA guide Todd Passey selects the five most classic ski mountaineering lines in Utah's Wasatch — from Mount Superior's iconic south face to the remote Coalpit Headwall.

Tips &Resources