WHY BECOME A SKI GUIDE? If you are an experienced cross-country skier, you know how exhilarating a day on the snow can be! Guiding a blind or visually impaired skier is a wonderful way for you to share your skills and love of the outdoors and to give another person the opportunity to develop his or her potential, as well as to just have a fun day on the snow. Cross-country skiing gives the visually impaired person a feeling of freedom, independence, and accomplishment.

HOW DOES IT WORK? Skiers and guides are paired one-on-one, and spend the day or weekend skiing together. They ski in parallel sets of tracks with the guide giving verbal information to the skier including instructional tips and suggestions, changes in terrain and direction, and describing the beauty of the surroundings. Some skiers are beginners and some have skied many times. There is a wide range of abilities and we try to pair you with the level of skier you indicate you will feel comfortable with.

WHAT KIND OF SKILLS DO I NEED? You should be comfortable in your ability to maintain balance and control while performing the following: diagonal stride, traversing hills, poling, skiing downhill, and turning. You do not have to be an expert. It helps if you like to talk.

WHAT ABOUT TRAINING? There are two parts to becoming a trained guide. You must attend both at least once. (1) A class meeting at which you will learn about communication and awareness skills. You will also learn about the Sierra Regional Ski for Light program and have the opportunity to have any questions answered. The meeting lasts about 2 hours and is offered twice annually, once in Sacramento and once in Truckee. (2) On-the-snow training. You will receive instruction in guiding techniques and terminology. You will have the opportunity to ski with experienced blind skiers who will assist in training you.

WHAT KIND OF COMMITMENT IS INVOLVED? We generally offer three one-day trips on Saturdays, between January and March, and a three-day trip in March, (Sat-Sun-Mon). You can commit to one day, all six, or somewhere in between. The number of skiers we accept depends on the number of guides who have indicated they are available.

HOW CAN I SIGN UP? Please contact Guide Coordinator:
Bruce Gordon
Phone: (775) 831-4168
Email: brucegordon@charter.net
for more information, to get on the mailing list, or to receive a packet to sign up. We welcome you and know that you will fel you get back as much or more than you give.