You can spot chutes and summits to ski but until you learn how to navigate the backcountry you can keep dreaming. The first step to skiing untamed slopes is to complete an avalanche-training course. Aspen Expeditions’ two-day, Level 1 Avalanche Course, teaches you to identify avalanche terrain, map ski routes, and practice rescue techniques.

Cost: $315, including equipment (beacon, shovel, probe)