Hosted by Josh Dirksen
Right after the SuddenRush Banked Slalom LAAX, we’re keeping the momentum rolling with a camp devoted to mastering one of snowboarding’s purest skills — the banked turn. And there’s no better person to learn it from than Josh Dirksen. His riding is unmistakable. The powerful arcs that carried him to multiple Mt. Baker Legendary Banked Slalom podiums have inspired riders worldwide and set the standard for flow, precision, and control.
This camp is your chance to tap into Josh’s knowledge and experience. For 5 nights and four days, he’ll break down the subtleties that make banked slalom so addictive — how to find the fastest line, keep momentum through transitions, and ride with confidence that feels effortless. Coaching sessions will take place across LAAX, from the wave-like Whoop De Doo Park to natural features and freeride lines when conditions allow. The focus is progression: building the skills and feel to ride smoother, quicker, and with more flow than ever before.
LAAX is the perfect training ground, with creative terrain and a snowboard culture that thrives on progression. Combined with Josh’s coaching, it’s a week that balances learning, fun, and pure snowboarding stoke.
Your base for the week is Riders Hotel, the hub of the LAAX snowboard community. With daily breakfasts, après sessions, and a crew of riders who all share the same passion, it’s where the camp experience continues long after you step off the snow.
Dates & Price
1 – 6 March, 2026
$3,550 per person
Duration
5 nights I 4 days riding
Tour Type
Coaching & Freeride
Why Travel With Mint
In a rapidly changing travel industry, it’s essential to book with a trusted provider. Mint is an accredited member of AFTA and IATA, operating under the ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct. With over 20 years of expertise, we offer peace of mind knowing you're in capable hands. As a full-service travel agent, we also handle your insurance, stopovers, and any pre or post-tour arrangements, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
Laax Banked Camp with Josh Dirksen
Get in touch for a detailed tour itinerary and more info
Coaching with Josh Dirksen
For four full days you’ll ride with Josh Dirksen, one of the most influential banked slalom riders of all time. His clean, powerful turns have earned multiple podiums at the Mt. Baker Legendary Banked Slalom and shaped the way a generation approaches line choice and flow. Josh’s coaching focuses on the finer details that make this style of riding so addictive: reading terrain, finding the fastest line, carrying speed through transitions, and building confidence in every turn. Whether you’re just getting started with banked slalom or refining years of experience, you’ll gain insight directly from a rider who has lived and breathed this discipline for decades.
LAAX Terrain
LAAX is home to some of the most creative terrain in Europe, making it the ideal training ground for a banked slalom camp. The Whoop De Doo Park — a wave-like, flowy snow track — is purpose-built for learning and progression, giving riders an intuitive introduction to banked turns. Beyond that, the resort offers natural banks, rollers, and freeride zones where Josh will take the group when conditions allow. With its mix of playful features and big-mountain options, LAAX delivers the perfect variety to practice, progress, and apply new skills in real-world terrain.
Stay at the Iconic Riders Hotel in LAAX
You’ll stay at the iconic Riders Hotel in LAAX, just a 5-minute walk from the gondolas and right next to the Freestyle Academy with an indoor skatepark and trampoline area. This hotel was designed with snowboarders in mind—simple, clean rooms with mountain views thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. After a day of riding, unwind at the fully-stocked bar, the best spot for catching up with the crew. There’s also plenty of storage for your gear, making it easy to come and go. The restaurant serves up vegan-friendly breakfast and dinner with a focus on quality and local flavors. With a laid-back vibe and a staff that really knows how to make you feel at home, the Riders Hotel is the perfect base for your LAAX adventure.
Snow and Conditions in LAAX
In early March, LAAX offers some of the best conditions of the season — a deep, reliable snowpack built up over winter, regular storms that still bring fresh powder, and longer days with more daylight to ride. Temperatures hover around –6°C to –1°C (21°F to 30°F), keeping the snow cold and fast while still comfortable for full days on the mountain. With virtually all terrain open — from the new Whoop De Doo Park and mini pipe to freeride zones and natural banks — this is the perfect time to focus on banked slalom progression.
LAAX: Europe’s Ultimate Snowboarding Destination
LAAX is one of the best snowboarding spots in the Alps. With five parks, including the world’s longest halfpipe, it’s the go-to place for snowboarders. After a quick ride up on the cable car, you’re straight into the action. And it’s not just about the park—LAAX also has epic freeride terrain, with deep snow and plenty of space to explore. LAAX is where it all comes together for snowboarders in Europe.
Pre-Trip Support: We've Got You Covered
Before your trip to LAAX even begins, you’ll have access to our tour manager who will help you plan every detail of your adventure. Whether it’s sorting out pre- or post-LAAX shred options, packing tips, or travel planning, we’ve got you covered. Need advice on the best way to fly to LAAX? We’ll guide you on the easiest routes and connections, making sure your travel is smooth and hassle-free. Our team will also help with accommodation arrangements, transport options, and anything else you need to make the most of your trip to Europe.
ESSENTIAL INFO
Your Tour Includes
✔ 5 nights’ accommodation, Twin Share Room, Riders Hotel
✔ 5 breakfasts, Riders Hotel
✔ 2 dinners, Riders Hotel
✔ 4-day LAAX lift pass
✔ 4 full days of banked slalom coaching and riding with Josh Dirksen
✔ On-snow sessions across LAAX, including the Whoop De Doo Park, natural banks, and freeride terrain when conditions allow
✔ Banked slalom race prep insights, including waxing, tuning, and equipment setup tips from Josh
✔ Scheduled transfers on arrival and departure day from Zurich Airport
✔ Pre-camp support from your Tour Manager
Dates and Pricing
Tour Dates: March 1 -6, 2026
Price: USD $3,550 per person (based on Twin Share Occupancy Rooms – 2 people / 2 beds per room)
Single Rooms: Limited availability – just ask for details!
Arrival and Departure
Arrival: March 01, 2026 (group transfers provided from Zurich Airport to Riders Hotel)
Departure: March 06, 2026 (group transfers provided from Riders Hotel to Zurich Airport)
Day 1 — Sunday, 1 March
Arrival in Zurich & Transfer to LAAX
Your Laax Banked Camp begins at Zurich Airport, where you’ll meet your Mint host, Josh Dirksen, and your fellow riders. From there, you’ll travel together by private transfer into the Swiss Alps. On arrival in LAAX, check into the Riders Hotel — your home for the week and the hub of the snowboard scene. The afternoon is a chance to get settled, unpack, and set up your gear. In the evening, the group will gather for a welcome dinner at Riders Hotel (included). Over dinner, Josh will introduce himself, share his background and achievements, and walk you through the plan for the week ahead. It’s the perfect chance to break the ice, meet your camp crew, and get stoked for the first day on snow.
Days 2 – 5 — Monday, 2 March to Thursday, 5 March
Typical Day on Snow
Each morning starts with breakfast at Riders Hotel before the short walk to the LAAX gondola. From there, you’ll spend the day riding and coaching with Josh. Sessions are tailored to conditions, with a focus on banked slalom technique — speed, flow, line choice, and confidence in transition. You’ll spend plenty of time in the Whoop De Doo Park, as well as exploring natural banks and freeride terrain when snow allows. Alongside on-snow coaching, Josh will run a waxing and tuning clinic, sharing the same prep techniques and board setups he’s used to win races around the world. Afternoons roll into après at Riders Hotel, and evenings are kept social but relaxed — heading out on foot to local restaurants in LAAX for group dinners.
Day 6 — Friday, 6 March
Departure
After one last breakfast at Riders Hotel, check out and board the scheduled transfer back to Zurich Airport with the group. It’s the end of the camp, but you’ll be heading home with new skills, a deeper understanding of banked slalom riding, and the experience of having trained with Josh Dirksen in one of Europe’s most progressive resorts.
WHY TRAVEL WITH MINT?
In a rapidly changing travel industry, it’s important to know that your travel provider is accredited, accountable, and responsible. Mint is a registered member of AFTA and IATA and conducts business in accordance with the ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct. When you travel with Mint, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re booking with a qualified and established travel operator with over 20 years of expertise. As a full-service travel agent, we can also assist with insurance, stopovers, and pre- or post-tour arrangements.
WHAT IS THE LAAX BANKED CAMP?
The LAAX Banked Camp is a week of coaching and riding focused on one of snowboarding’s purest skills — the banked turn. Hosted by Josh Dirksen, you’ll learn directly from a rider who has won the Mt. Baker Legendary Banked Slalom and the LAAX Banked Slalom, and has raced in over 50 banked slalom events worldwide. This camp combines on-snow coaching in LAAX’s Whoop De Doo Park, natural features, and freeride terrain with insights into race prep, equipment setup, and tuning.
WHAT ABILITY LEVEL DO I NEED?
This camp is designed for strong intermediate to advanced snowboarders who are comfortable riding groomed runs and handling variable terrain. You don’t need any banked slalom experience — that’s what the camp is for — but you should be confident linking turns at speed and riding for a full day. The focus is on progression in flow, line choice, and control, so as long as you can ride comfortably across the resort, you’ll get a lot out of the coaching.
WHAT HAPPENS ON ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE DAY?
Once you’ve signed up for the camp, we’ll send you a comprehensive guide with everything you need to know, including meeting points, recommended arrival and departure times, flight options, visa requirements, and transportation details. Scheduled transfers from Zurich Airport to the Riders Hotel are included on arrival and departure day.
WHAT IF I’M TRAVELING SOLO?
Most of our guests travel solo, so you’ll be in good company. Our groups mix well, united by a shared love of snowboarding and the excitement of riding with Josh. For this camp, all rooms are standard twin share (2 people, 2 single beds per room). If you prefer your own space, single room upgrades are available.
ARE LIFT TICKETS INCLUDED?
Yes, a 4-day LAAX lift pass is included in your camp package.
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO BOOK?
We recommend booking as soon as you’ve decided to travel to secure your spot. As this is a small group camp, places are limited and may fill well before bookings close (90 days before departure).
WHAT IS THE ITINERARY?
Each day you’ll spend time on snow with Josh, focusing on speed, flow, and line choice. Sessions will take place across LAAX, from the Whoop De Doo Park to natural banks and freeride terrain when conditions allow. Off snow, Josh will share tips on waxing, tuning, and the mentality needed to ride banked slalom with confidence.
WHAT TYPE OF TERRAIN WILL WE RIDE?
You’ll ride a variety of terrain across LAAX — from wave-like park setups and natural transitions to freeride zones if conditions allow. All coaching is conducted within the resort boundaries.
WHERE IS THE CAMP BASED?
This camp is based entirely at LAAX, with accommodation at Riders Hotel — the community hub of the resort.
CAN I ARRIVE EARLY OR STAY ON AFTER THE CAMP?
Yes, we can arrange pre- or post-camp accommodation to suit your travel plans. Speak to one of our specialists when booking, and they’ll help tailor your trip.
ARE FLIGHTS INCLUDED?
Flights are not included, but our team can assist you with booking the best options for your travel dates.
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for all guests. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance once you book your camp.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I BOOK?
Once you book your camp, we’ll send you a Pre-Departure Guide with details about your arrival and departure, meeting points, flight options, visa requirements, and more.
HOW DO I GET TO ZURICH?
We’ll provide you with detailed instructions for getting to our meeting point at Zurich Airport. If you’re new to Switzerland, we can also help connect you with other guests for easier travel.
HOW DO I CHECK AVAILABILITY?
Get in touch with one of our tour specialists to check availability. As this is a small group camp, spots are limited.
DO YOU TAKE SKIERS & SNOWBOARDERS?
This camp is snowboard-focused.
CAN I RENT EQUIPMENT?
Yes, high-quality rental equipment is available in LAAX. However, for banked slalom coaching we recommend bringing your own well-tuned board and gear.
WHAT EQUIPMENT SHOULD I BRING?
We recommend a board and bindings suited for fast, responsive riding, plus layers to suit early March conditions (0 to –15°C / 32 to 5°F). Essentials include a waterproof jacket and pants, insulated layers, merino base layers, gloves, goggles, helmet, and sunglasses. Josh will also provide a waxing and tuning clinic during the camp to help you get the most out of your setup.
WHO WILL BE ON MY CAMP?
You’ll be riding with a small group of snowboarders from different backgrounds and ages, all here for the same reason — to progress their riding and learn from Josh Dirksen in one of Europe’s best resorts.
DO I NEED A VISA TO ENTER SWITZERLAND?
Most guests traveling from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, USA, and Canada do not require a visa for stays under 90 days in Switzerland. If you’re traveling from another country, check the requirements for entry into the Schengen Zone.
DO I NEED A POWER ADAPTOR?
Yes, Switzerland uses Type C and Type J plugs with 230V supply voltage. We recommend bringing a universal power adaptor if you’re traveling from outside Europe.
WHAT CURRENCY IS USED IN SWITZERLAND?
The Swiss Franc (CHF) is the local currency. While many places in LAAX accept card payments, it’s useful to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
WHAT LANGUAGE IS SPOKEN?
The official language of the LAAX region is German, but English is widely spoken across the resort and hotel.
CAN I COMBINE THIS CAMP WITH OTHER EUROPEAN TRAVEL?
Absolutely. Zurich is a major hub with easy access to the rest of Switzerland and Europe by train or short flight. Many guests extend their trip to explore cities like Zurich, Lucerne, or Milan, or head to other mountain regions before or after the camp.
Questions or Ready to Book?
We’re here to help. If you’ve got questions or need more info, just get in touch and we’ll talk you through the details. Ready to lock in your spot? Give us a call or send us an email.
📧 [email protected]
📞 +1 503 994 1919
Deposits and Payments
A 50% deposit is required to secure your spot. The remaining balance is due 90 days before your tour begins.
Terms & Conditions
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