Plan carefully for ski touring
For skiers, the aura and allure of untouched snow is a potent combination.
So much so, in fact, that ski touring (or ski mountaineering, alpine touring and backcountry skiing, they’re all essentially the same thing) is one of the fastest growing winter sports in North America.
Indeed, the notion of leaving the crowded hills behind and jumping into an unblemished world of pure, pillow-soft powder is truly captivating. Unfortunately, there is a steep learning curve and a lot of gear requirements.
“Without a doubt, some of the most important things you can take with you into the backcountry are education, experience, good judgment, good partners and the right gear,” says Dave Stark, director of operations at Yamnuska Mountain Adventures in Canmore.
“Taking an avalanche training course is absolutely critical. Your life depends on your ability to assess conditions and make sound and safe decisions based on the snowpack, the terrain, the weather, the wind and so on.
“Remember, there is no ski patrol out there. The hill won’t close if conditions are deadly. It’s all up to you. And it’s a given in the ski touring community: safety comes first.”
There are many places where you can take your Avalanche Skills Training Level 1.
(To find a course for either skiers or snowmobilers, visit avalanche.ca/training/courses). This will be your first — and most important — step for entering the amazing world of backcountry skiing. Another tip: make sure your first few trips are with people (hopefully trained guides or avalanche instructors) who can give you the crucial, in-thefield training you’ll need.
As far as essential gear goes, there is a ton to learn here as well! Here is a snapshot of some of the essential gear for ski touring.
SKIS
Theoretically, any downhill ski can be set up and used for ski touring. However, ski touring skis are lighter and, of course, geared for the uphill climbs as well as the powder-filled (hopefully!) descents. The longer and steeper your ascent, the more important it will be to have a lightweight ski touring setup. Naturally, there are many types of alpine touring skis available. The right choice depends on the type of touring you want to do.
BINDINGS
Backcountry touring bindings allow the heel to move freely off the ski so you can stride or “skin” up the hill. When you’re ready for the descent, you lock down the heel and with one click all your downhill dreams will (hopefully) come true.
SKINS
Skins are pre-cut sections of plush material that stick to the bottom of your skis. The skins, which come in synthetic, mohair or a blend of the two, allow you to travel uphill without sliding back down.
BOOTS
Touring boots feature a “walk mode” that makes climbing much easier. Unlike downhill boots, they allow the cuff to pivot, which makes the climb much easier. They are also much lighter and come in a range of flexes to suit the skier.
BACKCOUNTRY SKI PACK
A good backcountry ski touring pack will be able to hold your gear, food, water and have sleeves or compartments to hold your skis (if need be) and your avalanche rescue tools. Many packs now come with avalanche survival features such as airbags (hopefully you never have to pull the cord).
AVALANCHE BEACON
Avalanche beacons are essential. Without one you cannot be located in an avalanche. Nor can you search effectively for anyone else. Three-antenna beacons have quickly become the norm. They provide signals on both depth and distance. But remember, if you don’t know how to use it, it’s useless.
PROBES AND SHOVELS
Collapsible carbon-fibre probes (for searching in avalanche debris) and metal-bladed shovels with detachable handles are also essential items to pack.
EMERGENCY KIT
The contents come down to personal preference, but a few items you’ll want to pack are a quality multi-tool, duct tape, headlamp, lighter and adjustable ski straps. Do some research and ask a professional on what other items you might want to pack in your survival kit.
CLOTHING
Sweaty uphill slogs and changing weather conditions mean that quality outdoor clothing will be essential for backcountry ski touring. Multiple layers, moisture-wicking materials and effective protection from cold and wind can save your life. Like every adventurous activity in inhospitable terrain, do your homework and be prepared. From your gloves to your base layer, it’s essential that your gear can hold up in “powderville.”