Category: Backcountry 101

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.




Keeping Cost Down: Building the Two Ski/Two Boot Quiver

We can come up with lots of fun and interesting ski/ride scenarios. There’s the yo-yo laps in deep powder. There’s week-long traverse where you might come home calling it a walking-camping trip. There’s the firm snow steep chute dance to be had. All this might take specific tools. There’s a lot of sweet used gear in the marketplace to fill out the niches in a two-boot two-ski quiver.  

Master the Shoulder Axe Carry

There are situations when having quick access to a stowed axe is desirable. Imagine you’re on that big and bad and burly line you’ve eyed all spring. The first few hundred meters of turns are steep, but the snow is forgiving and edgable. Then, a few turns ahead, a slick and shiny patch of blue ice elicits the international distress signal: puckering. Make the pucker factor in the steeps less puckery. Here’s how to master the shoulder axe carry.

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Skill Building

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Gear Basics

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Keeping Cost Down: Building the Two Ski/Two Boot Quiver

We can come up with lots of fun and interesting ski/ride scenarios. There's the yo-yo laps in deep powder. There's week-long traverse where you might come home calling it a walking-camping trip. There's the firm snow steep chute dance to be had. All this might take specific tools. There's a lot of sweet used gear in the marketplace to fill out the niches in a two-boot two-ski quiver.