Skiing in the backcountry is becoming a hot ticket in today’s modern ski world. As more areas open up the gates and allow skiers to access the back country at there own risk, interest is peaking and inevitably there are more tracks out back than I have ever seen before. Skiing in the back-country offers up the possibility of fresh lines and some how feeds that radical spirit of the “free heel skier”. Whatever draws you to skiing out of bounds there are some critical pieces of gear that should be included in every backcountry skier’s pack. While the seduction to ski untracked powder can be great, one should always take heed and remember that with the thrill comes great risk of injury and the looming possibility the temptress will unleash a nightmarish hell in the form of an avalanche. If your skiing in the backcountry this winter here are a couple of items to review before you head out for the first time this season. There is no equipment that replaces good judgement.
Before I head out into the backcountry for my first tour of the season, I like to take some time and go over my ski pack which I consider a lifeline for me and the people I ski with. Backcountry skiers should include the following items in their daily arsenal. First I like to inspect and test my avalanche safety gear. An accomplished backcountry skier will always have a Shovel, Avalanche Probe, Beacon, Snow study kit, extra batteries and a sound knowledge of traveling in avalanche country. For a quick review check out this refresher at avi.org . If you plan on skiing with someone who does not have these items in there possession you are placing yourself at serious risk as it is your partner who hopefully will be searching with a beacon, probing and shoveling to get you out when shit hits the fan. If I am ever in a group where someone is missing something, I gladly will lend them my kit as it might be me one needs to look for.
When skiing in the backcountry I always error on the side of being better prepared as I know anything can happen in the back country and even the smallest thing can be an epic game changer for the ill prepared. It is smart to carry a down parka, extra hat, extra gloves, and base-layer. Years ago, me and some of my partners over shot the Windsor trail on a classic back country line called Heavens Hill. In failing light we flailed through drainages well into the night looking for the trail. Despite the fact that we had all the proper gear including an altimeter, compass, GPS, and map we were for the moment lost. We were able to successfully locate the trail and ski out but we arrived back at the car at nearly 10:00 pm. Without being fully prepared for this unexpected side trip, we may not have walked out of the wilderness that night or ever.
Dressing for back country skiing can require just about everything in your arsenal as you move from highly aerobic ski touring which requires lighter breathable soft-shell layers to periods of inactivity requiring warm insulation. The ever looming possibility of precipitation begs a good shell jacket and pant, preferably lightweight Gortex ® or other packable waterproof breathable fabrics. If you are covering a lot of ground you are always peeling layers and adding layers depending on whether you are high or low, moving or stationary. Traveling in extreme winter climates requires the prepared skier to plan for the best but be prepared for the worst. At altitude the sun can be very strong, on brighter days Sunglasses and a hat for protection are essential.
Moving in the mountains at altitude requires a huge caloric intake for success. I always pack an abundance of food in my pack when I am heading into the backcountry. High calorie foods like energy bars, candy bars and gels are great and compact. I like to also take some regular food like a couple of PB and J’s with honey and butter. So what if you come home with excess food, I do on most trips but I like to know I have it. Beef Jerky and hard salami are also great trail snacks when touring. In addition to plenty of food, staying hydrated is paramount. Most good ski packs have a H2O reservoir pocket and skiing with a Camelbak or similar system will allow you to stay hydrated all day. The more the better, I like to have at least 100 oz’s of water on full day skis as well as a bonus hot drink in the thermos.
As one can see, being prepared when you ski out into the wilderness is important for a successful journey but there is one thing that does not go in your pack that every backcountry traveler should have an abundance of when headed out of bounds and that is knowledge and common sense. Nothing can replace the value of taking an avalanche safety course to help you better assess the terrain you are traveling in. There are many courses and resources available to help the back country skier. A great local resource is the Northern New Mexico Avalanche Exchange. Have a great time in the back country, always observe posted closings (Some times ski patrol has info you don’t have
Check out our complete backcountry gear list HERE
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