Backcountry Skiing

Fairly experienced skier? Want to take it to the next level and go back country skiing? Avalanches are a huge hazard and here are some things you need to know…

There are 3 main pieces of equipment that are a must have for each person:

1) Beacon / Transceiver – Used to locate a person who is lost / trapped under the snow.

2) Probe – Narrows down the search site after located by the transceiver when a person is buried from an avalanche. Gently insert into the snow and when you find unexpected resistance, that is likely where to dig.

3) Lightweight shovel – To dig a buried person out once located with the transciever and probe.

Know how to use all of these and make sure they are all working before you leave to go skiing. There are also other things you can get to help in an avalanche situation such as avalungs.  Radios are another great idea so you can communicate easily.  The snow conditions can change very quickly the wind and sun are big contributors to avalanche hazards, as the snow is laid in different conditions it creates layers which can break away and cause an avalanche.

You can read about it or watch videos about it but the only real way you are going to know how to read the dangers and ski out of bounds properly is to get some experience with a guide.  So if you have ANY doubt about your expertise or have not done it before, make sure you hire a back country guide to teach you how to do these things. Always plan your route before you go ahead and do it, this will avoid a number of surprises, such as very large cliffs.

Image via Wikipedia

Have fun, and always stay safe!