How to Equip Yourself for Backcountry Skiing

Most of the time, the best snow to be found is off the ski trails in the backcountry. Extra gear and knowledge are required to roam this terrain in the winter.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Avalanche Beacon
• Avalanche Probe
• Backpacks
• Ski Clothing
• Ski Equipment
• Skis
• Snowboards
• Snowshoes
• Telemark Ski Skins
• Collapsible Shovel

1. Dress as you would for skiing at a resort: wear synthetic long underwear, fleece and a waterproof shell.

2. Buy a lightweight shovel to perform snow stability tests and to dig a partner out of the snow if necessary. Many ski stores sell collapsible shovels for backcountry skiing.

3. Purchase an avalanche beacon at a ski store and learn to use it.

4. Practice using the beacon with friends before skiing in the backcountry.

5. Buy an avalanche probe to locate anyone who might be trapped under the snow. Probes are retractable poles that can be stretched to about 10 feet to poke through the snow.

6. Obtain snowshoes or skins to help you hike up hills that you plan to ski down.

7. Wear a backpack to carry all your extra gear as well as extra clothes, food and water.

8. Tell someone where you plan on going and when you plan to return.

9. Grab your skis and poles, or snowboard, and enjoy the uncrowded terrain.

Tips & Warnings

• Take an avalanche course if you plan on spending any time in the backcountry.
• Learn to use all of your equipment.
• Skiing is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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