Kirkwood Mountain Resort last week announced the tentative schedule for its annual backcountry tours and programs. Daniel Pistoresi of Kirkwood Mountain Resort said in an e-mail last week that Kirkwood offers California’s only resort-based backcountry program, which is “designed to expand the boundaries of mountain exploration.” The offerings include a daily guide service, camps, clinics, backcountry programs and “PowderCat” tours. Classes include beacon training, avalanche awareness courses and the snowcat tours. Pistoris said “Kirkwood’s legendary terrain and reliable snowfall provide the perfect training grounds for skiers and snowboarders looking to take their riding to the next level.” He said visitors can stop by Expedition: Kirkwood Headquarters for daily backcountry forecasts and enlist one of Kirkwood’s knowledgeable guides to show the “secret stashes” of the resort. Few lucky individuals will experience the powder reserves of Red Cliffs and Martin Point as part of Expedition: Kirkwood’s Snowcat Tours, as permitted by conditions. Jon Copeland, Director of Expedition: Kirkwood, said “The industry has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people enjoying backcountry skiing and snowboarding over the last decade. Our programs are designed to educate participants while at the same time exposing them to the lesser known powder stashes at Kirkwood.” New for the 2008-09 season, Expedition: Kirkwood will be offering complimentary avalanche beacon demonstrations on select Sundays along with daily guide service available through the Expedition: Kirkwood Headquarters located in the Mountain Village Plaza. Other highlights for the 2008-09 season include the 2nd Annual Telemark Festival to be held March 13th and 14th and the return of the Women’s Specific Three Day Camp scheduled for March 6th though the 8th. For more information on all of Expedition: Kirkwood products, see www.kirkwood.com or call (209) 258-7360. Story by Jim Reece.