KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

PROPER GEAR.

PROPER TECHNIQUE.

FORCAST CONSIDERATIONS

TERRAIN SELECTION.

SAFE RIDING

GETTING STARTED

Backcountry skiing unlocks untouched snow and wild terrain with the right gear, avalanche training, and smart planning. With touring skis or a splitboard, skins, and safety essentials, you can climb into quiet mountains, read the snow, and choose safe, rewarding lines. Start on mellow terrain with experienced partners, build your fitness and skills, and soon the backcountry becomes an exciting world of fresh tracks and adventure.

Starting with a good comfort level of skiing off-piste or sidecountry and a solid fitness base will help you transition smoothly into the backcountry, giving you the confidence, strength, and control to explore new terrain safely and enjoyably.

Gear Essentials -Alpine touring (AT) skis, bindings, and boots or a splitboard setup -Climbing skins sized to your skis -Adjustable ski poles -Avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe (always carry all three) -Proper layers: moisture-wicking base, insulating mid, weatherproof shell -Helmet, goggles, warm gloves, and hat -Small touring pack (25–35L)

Safety & Skills -Take an avalanche safety course (AIARE 1 or equivalent) -Learn how to use your beacon, shovel, and probe quickly and confidently -Understand avalanche forecasts and how to read terrain -Practice efficient uphill travel (kick turns, skinning technique) -Know basic backcountry navigation (map, compass, GPS)

Planning & Preparation -Start with simple, low-angle routes -Check avalanche forecasts and weather every tour -Tour with experienced partners -Share your plan and expected return time -Pack emergency essentials: first-aid kit, repair kit, headlamp, extra layers, food & water

Fitness & Conditioning -Build uphill endurance (hiking, running, cycling) -Strengthen legs + core for downhill control -Get comfortable skiing variable, ungroomed snow

CRITICAL GEAR

TRANSCIEVER

Also known as a beacon, this will be one of the pricier investments that you make - but don’t even think about skipping it. Your transceiver will be your lifeline in the case that you are buried under snow, and will also be your main tool in locating + saving anyone else who could be buried. When purchasing a beacon, be sure to get something boasting modern technology (3-antenna is highly recommended) and in good working condition.

SHOVEL

Your shovel will be your way of digging out anyone who may be buried in an avalanche. And no, we don’t mean just any shovel from your shed. You should have a designed avalanche/snow shovel, typically one that can break down into two pieces and be packed well in your backpack.

PROBE

A long stick-like item that you will use to probe through the snow in the case of an avalanche burial. Probes come in many different lengths, and the #1 consideration for you when buying one is to make sure you get one that is long enough.

CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE & RESOURCES

Owning gear is a start. Skiers and riders should attend an AIARE 1 course, at minimum. This gives good insight into how to use the gear, but also how to evaluate risk in the snowpack.

What to expect from a level 1 course: Current and aspiring backcountry travelers. This three-day course (24 hours of instruction, combination classroom and field), taught by experienced avalanche professionals, will introduce you to the concepts of avalanche hazard assessment, decision-making, and rescue. One of two foundational courses in the A3’s recommended progression, the Level 1 will provide you with a sound understanding of the basics, including tools you can use to make decisions about when to go/not go and how to conduct yourself in and around avalanche terrain. This is a cornerstone course for any person who travels in snowy mountainous terrain.