Backcountry Skiing

Backcountry Skiing

Backcountry and glacier ski/snowboard trips. These trips involve uphill ski travel and route-finding skills in avalanche terrain.

backcountry skiing/snowboarding

Backcountry (M) rated ski and snowboard trips require skis or snowboard with full metal edges, 457 kHz avalanche transceiver, shovel, avalanche probe, and climbing skins.

glacier skiing/snowboarding

Glacier (MG) rated ski and snowboard trips require skis or snowboard with full metal edges, 457 kHz avalanche transceiver, shovel, avalanche probe, and climbing skins.

Rating Mileage    
Elevation Gain  
Effort Skills
M1* Instructional 5-10 mi >1,500 ft Easy (green circle) ski runs Avalanche Safety
M1 Intermediate 5-15 mi >1,500 ft Intermediate (blue square) ski runs Avalanche Safety
M2 Advanced 8-20 mi >2,000 ft Advanced (single black diamond) ski runs   Avalanche Safety
M2G Advanced Glacier   
8-20 mi >2,000 ft Advanced (single black diamond) ski runs Avalanche Safety, Glacier Travel
M3 Expert 8-20 mi >2,500 ft Expert (double black diamond) ski runs Avalanche Safety, Alpine Experience
M3G Expert Glacier 8-20 mi >2,500 ft Expert (double black diamond) ski runs Avalanche Safety, Glacier Travel, Alpine Experience

It's important to have your winter weather clothing system dialed. Choose a trip with a mileage and elevation gain that suits your fitness and ability. Leaders often list pace by distance "speed" like 2.5 miles per hour or by elevation "speed" like 1,000 feet per hour.

If you have taken an avalanche safety course by a certified provider and wish to receive Level 1 or Level 2 AIARE Avalanche equivalency, please send your certificate to Member Services at info@mountaineers.org 

 

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