Intro to Ski-Touring – Adventure Tourism in British Columbia

So….What is ski touring exactly?

Ski touring has long been seen as an intangible goal for fair-weather adventurers. An alluring but unreachable experience that only the lucky few will ever get to truly realize. This is the result of a variety of inhibiting factors. The barrier for entry is considerably higher than conventional downhill skiing; one requires both the necessary equipment as well as the skills to effectively make use of such gear, they must possess knowledge of the hazards, and they must be aware of the locations which are safe enough to traverse but thrilling enough to make the journey worthwhile. All of this, on top of the fact that one must simply be an above average skier, and you have a recipe for hindering exclusivity. This article will help to alleviate the anxieties of delving into backcountry skiing and will point you to some locations where-in you can begin your journey.

What is it? Backcountry skiing (ski touring) is the act of traversing a given distance on skis without mechanical support. Skiers will “skin” up a slope, and then ski down, perhaps taking a different route each way. It is an invigorating, fulfilling way to elevate the challenge of skiing to the next level.

What you need to have:

If you are already a downhill resort skier, then congrats! Many pieces of gear that you have will work for backcountry skiing. There are of course some unique pieces of equipment that are vital for success, here’s a reference list to get you started.
·        Layering System (Warm base layers, Waterproof outer shell, etc.)
·        Wind resistant gloves
·        Helmet
·        Communication Device (GPS, Spot, etc.)
·        Map
·        Sunglasses
·        Avalanche Kit (Beacons, Shovel, Probe)
·        Touring Boots (Ski boots with the ability to go into “Walk Mode”
·        Touring Bindings (Bindings that can change modes)
·        Poles
·        Skins
See? Not so bad. If you are getting into adventure sports, the price point of equipment can be discouraging. The only item on this list that you MUST buy new is the helmet, everything else can safely be purchased second-hand, which is what we recommend.

Where you need to go:

Now that you have the gear, it’s time to hit Mount Everest! Just kidding. Let’s consider some more manageable objectives. If you reside in the interior BC area (around Kamloops) you have a variety of approachable options:
·        Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area – This is a fantastic location to cut your teeth. Gradient is low, and you can scale the challenge to your liking. There are sizeable objectives called Needle Peak and Zoa Peak that you can work your way up to as you gain experience.
·        Rogers Pass – From day tripping to huts to overnight excursions, Roger’s pass has it all. The challenge, and hazard, exceed that of the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area, however there are still numerous options for the new tourer. Consider hiring a certified ACMG guide for the day, their expertise will prove invaluable, and their guidance will help you to learn.
·        Off-Piste Resort Skiing – The most approachable of the above options. If venturing into the unknown is a stretch, consider the designated “Off-Piste” areas at ski resorts. These are areas that are outside the designated boundaries that are ripe for touring opportunities. Most of them are heavily trafficked which instills a peace-of-mind and exploring them is a great way to familiarize yourself with the gear and the basic techniques of ski-touring.
Listen to Your Gut
The wort position you can put yourself in is an inescapable one. If your gut says get outta there, get outta there.

A Word of Caution

Ski-touring is an adventure activity, which means that it is inherently risky. Safety measures, effective decision making, and humility are all critical elements of success. The goal is to come home at the end of the day feeling as though you were always in control, a great story doesn’t have to be the by-product of misadventure. Consider the factors below as essential in ensuring you have a safe, fun time out on the slopes.
·       AST 1/2 Training – Avalanche awareness/response protocol is critical. Avalanche Skills Training 1/2 (AST) are affordable, effective programs that will elevate your professionalism on the slopes, and most people won’t tour with skiers who don’t have them.
·       Wilderness First-Responder (60/80 hours) – If adventure is in your DNA, this is a must have certification. It is a three-year certification designed to prepare you for the unique injuries/conditions you may see in the wilderness, and ski touring is no exception.
·       Trustworthy Team – Know who you are skiing with. Have they prepared? Do they understand the risks? Are they hungover? These are all questions to ask before an excursion.
·       Emergency Response Plan – Who will you contact if things go awry, and how will you reach them? Who knows that you are skiing? Do you have an easy access exit point? Develop an ERP (emergency response plan) before departing.
Next Steps: You’ve made it this far which means you’re a keener! The next step is to do some investigation into your first excursion. We recommend hiring a guide in your area, they are pricey, but they will ease you into the process, and often the hardest part is just getting out there for the first time. Ski-touring is a rewarding way to experience the winter wonderland, and great way to make lifelong friends. Best of luck, see you on the slopes!

References

Zoa Peak in the Coquihalla Recreation Summit Area | Vancouver Trails

Needle Peak Trail | Map, Guide – British Columbia, Canada | AllTrails

BC Parks Map (arcgis.com)

AST 1 Avalanche Skills Training Course in Canmore (yamnuska.com)

WMA | Wilderness Medical Associates International (wildmed.com)