Athletics

Backcountry

Backcountry skiing and riding is a sport where skiing out-of-bounds is the norm; allowing skiers and riders to experience the wild mountain environment without ski lifts, groomers, trail closures, or crowds. CVA is the only academy-level program in the United States where young athletes are immersed in the backcountry environment learning crucial skills and refining techniques for a lifetime of success and love of the mountains.

The CVA Difference

Located at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain and not far from the White Mountains provides the CVA Backcountry team daily adventure and the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the challenges and conditions they might encounter in other parts of the world.

The best backcountry terrain in the East Sugarloaf has a progressive and challenging terrain that includes Brackett Basin and Burnt Mountain, with over 650 acres of backcountry-style glades featuring steeps, chutes, and cliffs.
An experienced and dedicated coaching staff Backcountry Program Director, Garrett Morrow brings over 20 years of experience and a diverse range of certifications including Wilderness First Responder, Registered Maine Guide, PSIA Level 1 for skiing, AIARE Level 1 for avalanche safety, and Swift Water Rescue Technician among others, to his position. His experience in ski patrol coupled with his certifications in rescue operations and wildland firefighting, equip him to prepare and guide student-athletes in navigating challenging backcountry environments safely.
A supportive community The CVA community is dedicated to helping each of our student-athletes achieve their goals.

PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY

The program is designed for adventurous skiers who are enthusiastic about exploring new terrain and seeking out the best snow conditions. It encourages a mindset of exploration and discovery in the backcountry setting.

Focus on Backcountry Skills CVA Backcountry provides specialized training in off-piste skiing skills, avalanche education, and ski mountaineering. environment.
Development of Leadership and Life Skills Beyond technical skiing abilities, the program emphasizes the development of leadership, problem-solving, communication, risk management, and teamwork skills. These are essential for both personal growth and safe outdoor exploration.
Holistic Approach By integrating outdoor adventure with skill development and personal growth, CVA Backcountry aims to provide a comprehensive educational experience that prepares young athletes not only for athletic success but also for lifelong enjoyment and stewardship of the mountains.

Acquired Skills & Certifications

Uphill ski touring technique: includes transition organization, skiing efficiency and skill.
Downhill technique: line selection and skiing skill in all snow conditions and terrain.
General mountain travel: gear selection and familiarity, clothing, nutrition, personal system organization and efficiency.
Mountain sense: mountain navigation, route finding and selection, hazard analysis, and decision making.
Interpersonal skills: leadership, group communication, teamwork, and time management.
Mountaineering and Ski Mountaineering: general use of technical climbing equipment, crampons, ice tools, basic climbing and rappelling techniques, and application of skills.
American Avalanche Association-recognized Level One Avalanche Course
American Avalanche Association-recognized Level Two Avalanche Course (for upper class students with multiple years in the backcountry program)
SOLO Schools Wilderness First Aid certification
SOLO Schools Wilderness First Responder certification (for upper class students with multiple years in the backcountry program)
Yearly attendance at the Eastern Snow and Avalanche Workshop.

List of 1 members.

Garrett Morrow

Backcountry Program Director

207-237-4488

Bio
Growing up at Sugarloaf with a Dad on the ski patrol, Garrett developed a love of skiing, and the mountains, early on. In high school, Garrett joined the ski team, and after becoming team captain, he discovered his desire for coaching. Although a former racer, Garret’s passion has always been the backcountry, and exploring the world off-resort.

Garrett brings over two decades of experience to CVA. After traveling all over the continental US and Canada in search of deep powder and steep descents, he returned to the Valley to foster, and instill, a love of backcountry skiing and riding in future generations. As the trip coordinator and lead guide for Saddleback Mountain, Garrett led uphill ski tours in the winter and guided hiking and paddling trips in the summer. At Sugarloaf, he served as a coach for the Big Mountain Bubblecuffer program, helping 12–16 year-olds interested in touring to safely explore, and navigate, all-mountain terrain.

Learning how to be safe in the mountains is a pivotal component of Backcountry skiing and riding. Garrett’s experience in rescue operations, as a ski patroller and fire fighter, help him to better prepare the athletes that he works with. His certifications include Wilderness First Responder, Registered Maine Guide, PSIA Level 1, AIARE Level 1 and Avalanche Rescue, Swift Water Rescue Technician, Pro Board Firefighter 1 & 2, and Wildland Firefighter.

In the off-season, Garrett spends his summers rafting, mountain biking, and hiking. He even completed the full Appalachian Trail!

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Carrabassett Valley Academy

3197 Carrabassett Drive
Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947
(207) 237-2250

Carrabassett Valley Academy prohibits discrimination against or harassment of any member or group based upon age, gender, race, color, religion, disability, categories sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, genetic predisposition, ancestry or other categories protected by Maine or federal law. CVA does not discriminate on these bases in the administration of its admission process, scholarship and aid programs, educational policies, athletics, or other school-administered programs.