Here at Geartrade, we're lucky to work with an array of folks who do awesome things outside of working here. Take Scott for example. Not only does Scott help manage our customer service queue, but he's a ski patroller on the side!
We had some questions about touring and thought who better to ask? Keep on reading to hear what Scott had to say plus his top 3 things to keep an eye out for when navigating avalanche terrain!
"First things first...Aren’t backcountry skiing and ski touring the same thing?"
Depends on who you ask!
Ski touring specifically references the act of skinning uphill or touring, while backcountry skiing refers to the act of skiing outside resort boundaries. They are used interchangeably because most people tour up and ski down, even though some of us would love a helicopter ride to the top now and then.
"What should folks watch out for while touring?"
Touring is all about timing. You will need to get in and get out before the temperature rises and increases the avalanche danger, especially this year with the weather we've had.
‘Pinwheels’ of snow are the easiest indicator the snow is warming and it’s time to reassess our plan. While these are helpful during our tour, we can use local knowledge or online resources to see when the sun will affect our desired terrain.
"What’s one thing you think people DON’T think about that they should while touring?"
I think it is important to take stock of your ability to manage an injury or health issue while in the backcountry.
If your partner was unable to ski back to the trailhead, how could you help them in that moment, and if you were to need to stay there until help arrives. How will you keep yourselves and your partner warm? Do you have the ability to extract your partner or will you need to wait for help to reach you? Can you perform basic life-saving measures until help arrives?
"What are your top 3 things to watch out for on avalanche terrain?"
Any of these signs initiate a conversation on turning around for me now and in the Spring:
- Large Pinwheels of snow
- Point releases of wet avalanches on steeper slopes
- Deep post-holing with ski pole or boots