Arc’teryx Academy is just around the corner and one the latest installments will be happening at Mammoth Mountain! Plenty more info (including tickets and dates) will be coming soon, but Arc’teryx sent over a quick brief on the exciting news answer questions we didn’t even know we had! Keep an eye out for dates and sign ups because the academy fills up quick and check out some info below to get stoked for this winter’s upcoming programs!

1. How does the Arc’teryx Academy differ from other outdoor education programs, and what unique experiences will Mammoth participants have?

What sets the Arc’teryx Academy apart is the combination of instruction from certified guides and the unique opportunity to learn directly from Arc’teryx athletes. Participants gain technical skills from professionals and benefit from the invaluable knowledge, passion, and firsthand experiences that our athletes bring. This blend of expert instruction and the stoke shared by athletes makes the Academy truly special, offering participants a holistic experience beyond traditional outdoor education programs.

2. Can you explain the decision to bring the Academy to Mammoth? What makes this location ideal for integrating backcountry education with the local culture? 

Our Backcountry Academy is part of a larger global event series that takes place not just in the US, but across North America, Europe, and even China. Arc’teryx’s Academy Series is continuing to evolve and grow which allows us to reach new mountain town communities. With athletes like Chris Benchetler on our roster, Mammoth has always been on our radar and we’re excited to be allowed the opportunity to connect with the community on a deeper level, through this event and our partnership with the Sierra Mountain Guides. Our Backcountry Academy is all about providing accessibility to the backcountry safely, through knowledge sharing and education. We want to allow locals the opportunity to advance their backcountry skills or perhaps those in nearby towns who have yet to get into the backcountry the opportunity to deepen their connection to the outdoors and learn. But we are excited to learn from the local culture, and community and pull together an Academy that’s true to Mammoth, a community that respects the backcountry and the mountains. 

3. What workshops or activities will be specifically tailored for the Mammoth event, and how will they cater to the skills and needs of the local outdoor community?

At the Backcountry Academy, clinics will cover a wide range of activities, including backcountry skiing, splitboarding, avalanche awareness, and snowboarding, ensuring that both beginners and experts find value. We’ll offer backcountry clinics in partnership with Sierra Mountain Guides for those ready to explore the backcountry, as well as on-hill clinics in collaboration with Mammoth Resort Ski School for participants who aren’t quite ready to take their first steps into the backcountry. Whether you’re looking to build foundational skills or advance as an experienced rider, the Academy will provide clinics tailored to the varying levels and needs of the Mammoth outdoor community.

4. How can residents get involved in the Academy, and what opportunities are available for them to engage beyond simply attending?

Residents can get involved in several ways beyond attending clinics. In the lead-up to the Academy, we’ll be hosting events as part of the Academy Preparation Series, providing opportunities for the community to connect, learn, and prepare for the main event. More details about this series will be released in the coming months.

The Film Nights will showcase a blend of Arc’teryx films and local spotlights, featuring speakers with deep ties to the Mammoth community, sharing their mountain adventures and insights. In addition, the Academy Music Series will offer a mix of après performances, creating a lively atmosphere after a day in the mountains, as well as late-night shows for those looking to continue the celebration.

Throughout the weekend, the Vendor Village in the heart of Mammoth will be a hub of activity, featuring our top-tier Academy sponsors. Attendees can explore the latest gear, engage with product experts, and participate in giveaways and demos. With these activities, the Arc’teryx Academy offers something for all ages, ensuring the entire community can get involved and enjoy the experience.

5. In what ways will the Academy contribute to the growth of the outdoor recreation community in Mammoth, both during the event and after?

The Arc’teryx Academy is dedicated to making high-quality backcountry education accessible to a broad audience. We offer our clinics at a price point that is designed to be affordable for many. By providing this education at an accessible price, we aim to help participants gain the confidence and self-sufficiency needed for safe mountain travel.

Our goal is not only to impart these crucial skills but also to foster a sense of community among attendees. We hope to create opportunities for participants to meet and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, encouraging them to build lasting relationships and continue exploring the outdoors together after the Academy. This focus on both education and community engagement is intended to support the long-term growth of the outdoor recreation scene in Mammoth, benefiting both the local community and the broader outdoor network in the greater region. 

6. What role do local guides, instructors, or businesses play in the Academy, and how is Arc’teryx working to collaborate with the Mammoth community?

We are collaborating closely with Sierra Mountain Guides and the Mammoth Resort Ski School, whose expertise is crucial for ensuring the highest standards of safety and education at the Academy. Their deep local knowledge and experience allow us to offer well-informed, safe, and effective clinics tailored to Mammoth’s unique terrain and conditions. 

In addition to our work with these guiding and resort professionals, we are in the beginning stages of getting to know local businesses and are eager to explore various collaboration opportunities. Building relationships with local establishments is a key part of entering and connecting with a new community. We’re excited to engage with local businesses on a range of initiatives, such as creating collaboration beers, offering Arc’lattes at local coffee shops, and hosting events at ski and board shops around town. These collaborations are our way of integrating into the community, celebrating its unique character, and fostering a sense of local involvement and support.

7. Can you talk about the importance of environmental stewardship and backcountry education, and how the Academy emphasizes these values in every session?

We believe that the mountains transform us, that how we adventure matters, and that there’s always a better way. Arc’teryx Backcountry Academy brings to life our love for the mountains and commitment to sustainability. Spending time on the land means we see first-hand the effects of climate change on the places we love. It is our responsibility to be stewards of the land, protecting and preserving as we explore. We commit to Leave it Better: facing climate change head-on, setting ambitious targets and holding ourselves accountable to make a difference. Our approach to sustainability is intersectional. We listen to the needs of the community, support the organizations creating equitable access to the outdoors, and operate our business in a way that nurtures and respects the skilled workers who bring our product vision to life. Sustainability is at the heart of our purpose. 

8. How does the gear testing and hands-on learning at the Academy enhance the experience for participants, and what innovations in Arc’teryx products will be showcased during the event?
While we aren’t ready to reveal the specific products we’ll be showcasing at the Academy just yet, participants can expect an immersive experience that introduces them to Arc’teryx as a brand, our purpose, and our mission. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore our latest ski and snow product innovations, with hands-on learning that allows them to engage directly with our gear. In addition, we’re excited to bring our ReBird program to the event, offering onsite gear care and repair services, as well as a selection of used Arc’teryx gear available for purchase.