A Covid pivot that created a completely new, affordable way of connecting backcountry enthusiasts with an ACMG ski guide.
In April of 2020 the COVID-19 pandemic shut the world down, impacting us all in ways we never thought possible.
Aurora Backcountry's original business model was primarily international bucket-list trips to areas like Japan, Norway, and New Zealand. With the world completely shut, it seemed like we might become another unfortunate statistic — one of the thousands of businesses that would close for good.
COVID essentially eliminated our entire market, and Aurora Backcountry had to cease international operations. Running a small business is challenging in any climate, but for a company reliant on tourism and travel, the onset of the pandemic felt particularly daunting.
We had to invest our limited resources to pivot and adapt to the new normal in order to survive. Fortunately, an idea — a risky one — would not only save our business but help stitch back together a community of guides who had all lost their jobs and income when other companies gave up.
The Aurora Backcountry Pass was born: the first-ever season pass for the backcountry. A completely new, affordable way of connecting backcountry enthusiasts with an ACMG ski guide. The pass streamlines the logistics and economics into a season-pass plan, and doubles as a community platform — its app connects passholders with guides and with each other.
Our mission
Our mission is to give passholders the most convenient, affordable, and flexible way into the backcountry — saving time and money while creating the opportunity for mentorship, built for intermediate to advanced tourers.
Common questions
If something is still murky, send us a message and we'll respond ASAP.
What level of skier do I need to be?
Solid intermediate or better: comfortable on ungroomed black-diamond terrain at a resort, and willing to skin uphill at a steady pace for 3 to 4 hours. We pair your trip with terrain matched to your level.
How many guided days does each pass include?
Four on Sea to Sky, eight on Recreationalist, twelve on Enthusiast, and sixteen on Full Season — all guided between December 1 and April 30, subject to availability and conditions.
What if the snow is awful or the avalanche danger is high?
We re-route to safer terrain, shift to a better weather window, or turn the day into hands-on avalanche education. Trips can be rescheduled within the cancellation window, up to 24 hours before the trip.
Do you provide gear?
We don't provide gear — you bring your own, including avalanche safety equipment (beacon, shovel, probe). Members do get discounts from our partners — 4FRNT, Intuition, Bluebird, and Outdoor Research — to help you kit up.
Are passes refundable?
Passes are fully refundable for 7 days after purchase, then non-refundable. Full Season passholders carry half of their unused days into next season when they buy a pass. Individual trips can be cancelled up to 24 hours ahead, except upgrade trips such as road trips and overnights, which cannot be cancelled once paid.
Do I need to be a member to buy a pass?
Yes. Membership is free: join with Google or your email, then buy any pass.
Who are your guides?
Local, ACMG-certified ski guides.
Where do the trips go?
Mostly the Sea to Sky, from Squamish to the Duffey Lake area. We also run road trips to Rogers Pass and to Lake Louise in Banff National Park, usually from January to April. Our area guides name the places we ski, but your guide picks the exact terrain on the day, based on the group, the avalanche hazard and the snow.
When is the season, and how do trips run?
December 1 to April 30. Any date with three or more sign-ups runs, so book early: great-weather days fill fast.
How do I book, and what's the cancellation policy?
Book through the free app up to 20 hours ahead, and cancel up to 24 hours before a trip. Upgrade trips such as road trips and overnights cannot be cancelled once paid. No-shows or late arrivals forfeit the day.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes — a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risks and Indemnity Agreement, before your pass is issued and before any trip. Every adult (and a parent or guardian for minors) completes their own.
What happens to unused days?
Plan to use your days within the season. Full Season passholders can carry half of their unused days into the next season when they buy a pass — or 100% with the Accidental Injury Benefit add-on and a successful injury claim.
Can I use my Sea to Sky Pass on a road trip?
Yes. Every Aurora pass can be used on a road trip. Sea to Sky is just the name of the pass. Road trips have extra costs: a daily charge for the van, and a nightly charge toward the guide’s hotel and travel.
Can I bring a friend who doesn’t have a pass?
Enthusiast and Full Season include a bring-a-friend day, so you can share one guided day with a guest. Otherwise your friend needs their own (free) membership, and can book a day like any other trip or buy a pass.
