SALT LAKE CITY — This weekend’s fresh dusting of snow on some Utah mountains has winter sports enthusiasts excited for the upcoming season. Backcountry professionals said it’s never too early to start preparing for what’s coming.

Build skills and strength before backcountry skiing

Paige Pagnucco, the director of Utah Avalanche Center, said some on-snow class dates have already been announced. They’re helpful in getting real-world hands-on experience.

“Utah Avalanche Center offers classes as well as other local providers,” Pagnucco said.

UAC also offers an online course called Know Before You Go. Per the nonprofit, it can help new backcountry travelers build a strong foundation before taking an on-snow class, or help experienced explorers refresh their memory. Note that an online course

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