WINTER FAQ: 

• Who can attend VNTRbirds events?

A:  Women-identifying and non-binary skiers/riders (who are comfortable in femme-centered space) over the age of 18. Under 18 but want to attend? You have to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Reach out to us at [email protected].

 

• I’m so nervous! Is this normal? Should I still sign up?

A: ABSOLUTELY! Nerves are COMPLETELY normal prior to trying new things. Let’s be real, backcountry travel and winter sports can be vulnerable places! Rest assured, a priority of VNTRbirds is to create safer and more inclusive spaces for our staff, participants, and coaches. Come join us JUST as you are, and we will have a blast. Feeling butterflies? Who isn’t?! Join us for a safe opportunity to progress, and we will guide you through skills and techniques to empower you and feel like the badass that you are!

 

• What is a typical event like? What should I expect?

A: Each VNTRbirds event is tailored to the length and location of each course/event. Please check out the individual events for more details.

 

• Q: Do you offer scholarships?

A: YES! We offer various types of scholarships. Please check out our Scholarship Page on our website for specific details and application deadlines. 

 

• I want to sign up for an event! How do I know I am ready?

Open to both skiers and splitboarders. You should be able to ski/ride blues and blacks ungroomed terrain on the resort. You need to have proper backcountry safety equipment including a TRANSCEIVER, SHOVEL, PROBE, and BACKPACK (see full packing list). Need to rent safety equipment? It will be available to rent through us in registration. Additional $50.

 

• What do I need to bring to a winter event?

A: We want to make sure we can spend the entire day focusing on skills and riding, so please come prepared with the recommended items. Please note: you will also receive a detailed packing list prior to the event. 

• Check out our detailed PACKING LIST HERE.

 

• Will the clinic go on with bad weather?

A: YES. We suggest you stay close to the location in case of severe winter weather. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the trailhead safely and on time.  

 

•  How do I know where to meet for the clinic and what time to be there?

A: Information will be provided in the registration email. 

You will receive a pre-event email ~2 weeks prior to the event with all the details. Maybe too many details ;). Make sure to arrive in plenty of time to check in, get your gear situated, and layers organized. Questions? Hit us up. 

 

• How big are the groups at clinics? 

We have a 6:1 guide per student ratio. The entire participant group would never exceed 18 total individuals, usually averaging around 12. 

 

• Is it weird if I come to an event solo?

Absolutely not! Most of our participants come to events on their own! We are BIG on community building, and one of the best perks of our clinics is meeting new friends to get out in the snow with!

 

• Can I reach out to other people taking the same course as me about sharing lodging or carpooling to the event? 

A: Sure thing. About a month out from the event we will create a FB event and that will be a great space for you to communicate and coordinate with other participants about the event.

 

•  Should we tip our guides/instructors? How much? 

A: Tipping is not expected but it is greatly appreciated by our guides. If you feel your guides/instructors worked very hard to provide an excellent experience for you, we would encourage you to tip as much as you can afford. A general guideline would be 10-20% of the registration cost.

 

• Oh no! Something came up (injury, illness, other plans, etc.). What is VNTRbirds refund policy?

A: Notice of cancellation more than 14 days in advance will receive a full refund, minus a 10% administrative fee*. 

Notice of cancellation less than 14 days in advance will receive no refund. Clients MAY have the option to transfer to another course or clinic with a $50 transfer fee (if available during the same calendar year).

*There is a processing fee on credit card transactions that is NOT collected by VNTRbirds, therefore we are unable to refund this amount.

 

• What are Good Vibe Ride Days? 

VNTRbirds isn’t just about outdoor education, it’s also about community. Throughout the winter, VNTRbirds host GOOD VIBES RIDE DAYS, which are free women’s meet ups to shred with a group of awesome and like minded women at local resorts. Come out to meet new friends and have a great day of skiing and riding! VNTRbirds does our best to work with the resort and provide discounts if available. This is not guaranteed, but reach out to see if we can help with a discounted lift ticket!

 

• Are Good Vibe Ride days beginner friendly? 

These resort days are geared toward intermediate to advanced riders. 

 

• I’m interested in working for VNTRbirds! Who do I reach out to? 

A: We would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at [email protected] for more information.

 

• I think what you are doing is awesome. Can I volunteer? 

A: YES! YES, PLEASE! Reach out to us at [email protected] for more information.

 

• I still have more questions! Who can I contact?

A: We’re happy to answer any other questions you may have. Reach out to us at [email protected] and we will chat and get your questions answered.