Back country skiers enjoy exploring the remote snowy terrain outside of ski areas, while facing the challenges of the ungroomed landscape. Anyone heading into the back country should carry a backpack that holds safety gear and supplies, in case of a fall, accident or other emergency. Never venture into the back country alone.
Notification
Tell your family or friends where you plan on skiing. Purchase or make a copy of your trail maps and mark your planned trail. Leave a copy of the map with a friend or family member. Some mountains may require you to sign in or leave a copy of your proposed route and expected duration at the forest ranger station. In the event of an accident, delay or bad weather, this will help searchers find you. Bring an avalanche beacon that transmits your location if you get buried in snow. The beacon can be worn in your clothing or packed in your gear.
Helmet
You should always wear a helmet when you're skiing, and it's especially important when you ski in ungroomed areas. Wear a helmet when you're downhill or cross-country skiing in high or rough back country terrain.
Routes
Plan your route carefully, and study and familiarize yourself with area you're entering before skiing in the back country. Know where stream beds, creeks and lakes are located. Follow trail markers, and learn what the terrain looks like in the summer. You may not see gorges, ravines, rock piles or other hazards in the winter when they're covered with snow or ice. Talk to the forest ranger or National Park office and verify that trails and runs are open, safe and monitored by trained rescue personnel. Ask about avalanche conditions or warnings before heading into the back country.
First Aid and Survival Kits
Always take a first aid kit with you when skiing in the back country. A fire starter, knife, rope, compass and map are essentials to be placed in the bottom of your backpack. Include a whistle and mirror that can be used to signal help. A reflective blanket can stave off hypothermia if you're injured and be used as a reflective signal. Bring high-protein snacks like nuts, power bars, jerky or other dried food that will last for several hours or even a couple of days in the event of an accident.
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