Backcountry Skiing

When there aren’t any of the ski infrastructures, such as a steep slope and ski lift, your option is the sport of backcountry skiing.  With this type of skiing, you get down to the basics – what you can do and what nature has to offer.  Because of this, backcountry skiing is best done by those who have more expertise and experience as you may have to ski in various snow conditions. We have to warn you of this, since this type of skiing will really call on what you know about the sport.  You need to be the type who’s a good navigator, has a reasonably fit body and is self-reliant.  You should also have sufficient knowledge in keeping warm in extremely cold weather.  This is because the possibilities of getting caught in an accident or of getting lost increase with every step you take away from the safe enclave of the ski resort. Consider this before you even venture off-piste.

That said, backcountry skiing will be an experience you will want to have over and over again.  Indeed, it will not only relax you, it will give you a greater appreciation of skiing.  You not only get to enjoy the view and the terrain, but also the feeling of greater privacy. Just imagine the sight of fresh fallen snow framed by mountains fringed with green.  Also, unlike skiing through marked-off pistes, backcountry skiing will help you eliminate the hassle of having to jostle for space along with the crowd.  Now how’s that for an attraction, nature coupled with solitude?  Not bad, eh?

This, and the need to find powdery snow, is what pushes ski enthusiasts to go backcountry skiing.  Usually, you will be the first one to ski on that snow.  Yes, skiing without competition – being able to chart your own trail!  That is the beauty of backcountry skiing.

Backcountry skiing is also known as off-piste skiing and ski touring, although the range is quite different. When doing some backcountry skiing, you may need to make more than one day trip or you may have to stay in one of the mountain huts provided.

When doing backcountry skiing, you should be equipped with the necessary equipment to keep you safe and prevent injury.  There are ski equipment that are specially designed for the purpose of backcountry skiing.  The necessity of having the right equipment cannot be overemphasized.  Ill-fitting equipment can spell disaster when you go off to a backcountry skiing stint.  Also, be prepared for the possibility of avalanches.