Backcountry 101

Backcountry skiing can be many things: dawn patrol laps, a sunrise-to-sunset powder hunting mission, or a multi-day traverse in deep wilderness. The common thread passing through all aspects of the endeavor are tenants like self-reliance and an understanding of the dynamic and often unforgiving snowscape. Backcountry 101 is the department at The High Route for first-timers and those looking to improve some skills.

No matter who you are, we were all beginners at one point — Backcountry 101 is also the place for the seasoned backcountry skier/splitboarder embracing the growth mindset or those willing to mentor others with helpful advice.

Backcountry 101 will feature pieces about skill building and gear basics so you can be more nimble in your backcountry pursuits.

Ski Traverse Sleep Systems

by The High Route Editors | Backcountry 101, Skill Building | 5

Sleeping systems for multi-day traverses are all over the map. Depending on your goals and individual metabolism, the roadmap to sleep system perfection is an evolution. Here are some ideas to help focus the sleep system gear selection.

THR Resources: Springtime Care for your Skis/Board and Skins

by The High Route Editors | Backcountry 101, Skill Building | 0

Springtime care resources for your Skis/Board and Skins: the waxing, the gluing, the re-gluing, and the cleaning.

Bringing Crampons along for the Splitboard Journey

by Jason Albert | Backcountry 101, Skill Building | 1

This article is about crampons for splitboarders and two individuals’ experiences—Matt Colton and Daniel Crist—on their respective paths.

Double Posi Primer: A Look at Snowboard Stances

by Alex Palombo | Backcountry 101, Skill Building | 2

For the splitboarders among us, foot stance is critical. Here’s the THR primer on stances with an emphasis on the double posi.

Veneers of Nuance

by Jason Albert | Backcountry 101, Skill Building | 0

For the afflicted among us who cannot stop touring until long after we’re skinning over dirt, pine needles, and stones, there are still hazards out there. We want everyone to come back safe. Perhaps an admission of humility at our inability to fully perceive the veneers of nuance can help us do just that.

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Skill Building

Ski Traverse Sleep Systems

by The High Route Editors | Apr 29, 2025 | Backcountry 101, Skill Building

Sleeping systems for multi-day traverses are all over the map. Depending on your goals and individual metabolism, the roadmap to sleep system perfection is an evolution. Here are some ideas to help focus the sleep system gear selection.