Planning on traveling into backcountry terrain? Read up on the backcountry essentials below.
Five considerations before beginning any backcountry tour:
Skiing/riding ability and experience
Physical fitness
Partners
Proper equipment, including a positive attitude
Plan and education
You don’t have to be able to ski the steepest terrain, tackle the gnarliest couloirs, or huck cliffs to go into the backcountry, but you should be at least an advanced intermediate level (comfortable skiing easy blacks and ungroomed blues in any condition). Remember, there are no groomed runs in the backcountry to bail out on, and no ski patrollers coming to rescue you. A simple injury or gear malfunction could quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation if you are unprepared.
Backcountry skiing and riding are physically demanding sports. For most people, it’s difficult to hike uphill and ski or ride down without some prior conditioning. It requires strength, endurance, and fitness, which should not be taken lightly.
Most of the time, backcountry skiing and riding isn’t about skiing or riding—it’s about hiking. If you don’t enjoy hiking, especially in winter conditions and a mountain environment, then backcountry touring probably isn’t for you. Additionally, if you don’t enjoy skiing or riding in highly variable conditions, stick to the resort.
The people you tour with can make or break a trip. You should have a good relationship with your partners and be able to communicate easily and clearly. Important topics to discuss include: skiing/riding ability, goals and objectives for the day, physical fitness, risk tolerance, time constraints, health, etc.
Proper gear is also essential when venturing into the backcountry. A short list of must-have items is provided below. It’s not only important that you have the gear, but also that you know how to use it.
Essential Equipment:
Beacon, Avy backpack with shovel and probe, first aid kit, repair kit, food, water, extra layers, communication device, maps, rescue gear
Backcountry skis/splitboard, bindings, boots, skins, poles
Optional: airbag, crampons, ice axe
A good plan with multiple options and decision points is crucial before beginning any backcountry adventure. Your plan should take into consideration the weather forecast, the snowpack, and the group’s capabilities. You should always share your plan with others.
Essential Education:
Avalanche awareness course or certification
Current snowpack history and avalanche forecast
Winter travel skills
Mountain navigation
First aid and backcountry rescue
This list isn’t meant to deter you from venturing into the backcountry, but rather to ensure that you come back safe and have a good time.
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