Backcountry Skiing

Frequently Asked Questions About Backcountry Skiing

• How is backcountry skiing different than resort skiing?

  While many find joy in the sun-drenched slopes of ski resorts—complete with lifts, groomed runs, and vibrant après-ski scenes—seasoned backcountry skiers seek adventure in the untamed wilderness.

  Most backcountry experiences begin with a physical ascent, where skiers attach climbing skins to their skis and traverse unmarked trails, immersing themselves in the solitude of nature. This climb is a test of endurance, leading to a summit that promises an exhilarating descent.

  Unlike the well-defined paths of resorts, backcountry skiing allows for freedom and creativity in choosing lines through untouched powder. Each turn becomes a dance with gravity, connecting the skier to the raw beauty of the mountain.

  However, this liberation comes with responsibility. Avalanche safety knowledge, navigation skills, and awareness of changing snow conditions are essential. Gear such as beacons, probes, and shovels is vital for safety in this unpredictable environment.

  In the end, choosing between resort skiing and backcountry skiing reflects one’s desire for adventure versus comfort. For those craving exploration and the thrill of the wild, backcountry skiing offers a unique journey—a celebration of freedom that transcends the boundaries of the ski resort.

• How do I start backcountry skiing?

  Are you drawn to the allure of untouched snow and the promise of adventure? Here are 6 steps on how to start backcountry skiing.

  1. Build your foundation: Skills and gear
  Before venturing into the backcountry, ensure you’re comfortable on groomed runs and possess solid skiing skills. You don’t need to be a pro, but mastering parallel turns and navigating varied terrain is essential. Invest in the right gear—backcountry skis, lightweight bindings, and alpine touring boots designed for both ascent and descent. A pair of climbing skins, which attach to the bases of your skis for uphill travel, is crucial.

  2. Get educated: Take a course
  Knowledge is your best ally in the backcountry. Enroll in an avalanche safety course and a backcountry skiing clinic. These programs provide invaluable insights into snow science, terrain management, and safe travel practices. Understanding how to assess avalanche risk and read terrain is paramount for your safety.

  3. Find a mentor: Ski with a guide!
  If possible, tag along with seasoned backcountry ski guides who know the ins and outs of the terrain. Their experience will not only enhance your learning curve but also expose you to local knowledge, including the best routes and safety tips. A knowledgeable companion can also assist in navigating potential hazards, making your transition smoother.

  4. Choose your terrain wisely
  Start with low-angle slopes and accessible zones to build your confidence. Familiarize yourself with the local terrain and choose areas that are well-traveled and known for their safety. Use resources like guidebooks or online forums to identify beginner-friendly routes and track conditions.

  5. Gear up: Safety essentials
  Safety gear is non-negotiable in the backcountry. Always carry an avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel. A first-aid kit, a map or GPS, and communication devices like a satellite phone or radio are also essential. Familiarize yourself with how to use this equipment before you need it—practice with your beacon in a controlled setting.

  6. Embrace the journey
  Backcountry skiing is not just about the descent; it’s about the entire experience—the climb, the scenery, and the connection to nature. Embrace the slower pace of the ascent and take the time to appreciate the beauty around you. Remember, every great skier started as a beginner, and the mountains are as welcoming as they are challenging.

• Is backcountry skiing the same as off-piste skiing?

  Backcountry skiing and off-piste skiing share the thrill of venturing beyond groomed trails, but they are not the same.

  Backcountry skiing takes place in unpatrolled, remote areas, requiring self-sufficient ascent and descent, typically using alpine touring gear and climbing skins. It embodies a spirit of adventure, demanding navigation skills, snow condition assessment, and avalanche safety knowledge.

  In contrast, off-piste skiing occurs within ski resort boundaries but outside designated runs. These areas, like glades and powder-filled bowls, can be accessed via resort lifts and are generally monitored for avalanche risk, providing a taste of adventure without the exhaustive effort of skinning uphill.

  Both require specialized gear and safety equipment, but backcountry skiing demands a higher level of preparedness and self-reliance. Ultimately, while both offer unique experiences, backcountry skiing immerses you in the wild, while off-piste skiing allows for excitement within the safety of resort infrastructure.

• Do you need special skis for backcountry skiing?

  Absolutely—special skis are essential for backcountry skiing. Unlike traditional downhill skis, backcountry skis are lighter and narrower, facilitating easier uphill travel while still providing performance on the descent. Their design often features a rocker profile for enhanced floatation in powder and maneuverability in variable conditions.

  Width is also a key consideration: wider skis offer better floatation in soft snow, while narrower skis provide precision on firmer surfaces.

  Bindings and boots are equally important; backcountry bindings allow for a free-heel mode during ascents and secure locking for descents, while lightweight touring boots offer flexibility for climbing and control for skiing downhill.

  In summary, investing in the right backcountry gear enhances your performance, keeps you safe, and helps you fully embrace the adventure of exploring unmarked terrain.

• How difficult Is backcountry skiing?

  Backcountry skiing is undeniably more challenging than resort skiing, with difficulty levels influenced by skill, fitness, terrain, and environmental conditions.

  Physical demands
  The physical aspect is significant; skinning up inclines—from gentle hills to steep couloirs—requires endurance and strength. Navigating deep snow and rugged terrain adds to the challenge, making conditioning crucial.

  Technical skills
  Beyond solid downhill skiing, backcountry skiing demands diverse skills, including techniques for ascent, like kick turns, and handling varied snow conditions on the descent. Knowledge of avalanche safety, terrain assessment, and navigation is essential.

  Environmental factors
  Weather and snow conditions can further complicate the experience, creating hazards like unstable snowpack or poor visibility. The ability to read these conditions and make informed decisions is vital.

  While backcountry skiing is demanding, far more than resort skiing, with the right preparation and training, the rewards—pristine landscapes and the thrill of fresh tracks—are well worth the effort.