Vibe-Winter-2425 - Flipbook - Page 54
Choosing Appropriate Snow Conditions
In the backcountry, every run requires an evaluation. Not every
slope is easily skiable or even fun, and conditions change rapidly.
Skiers must learn to read snow conditions, recognize their own
limitations, and choose routes that match their skills.
Mountain Weather
Be prepared for variable weather. The higher summits can experience weather conditions dramatically different from those
in the valleys. Accessing detailed forecasts, such as the Mount
Washington Observatory’s Higher Summits Forecast, can help
guide decisions. Always plan for sudden weather changes.
a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a
waterproof, windproof outer shell.
Uphill travel can be strenuous, and it’s easy to overheat if
overdressed. Shedding layers before climbing can help prevent
sweating, which, if unmanaged, can lead to chills during breaks or
descents. Additionally, pack extra gloves, hats, and a puffy jacket
for emergencies—these will help you stay comfortable and safe.
Equally important is staying fueled. Your body needs food
and water to regulate temperature effectively. Eating regularly
and staying hydrated are key for maintaining energy levels and
keeping warm in cold conditions.
TECHNICAL BACKCOUNTRY TERRAIN
Navigation Skills
Backcountry skiing demands navigation skills not needed on
marked trails. Maps, compasses, and GPS tools are invaluable,
and knowing how to use them effectively can be the difference
between a successful outing and getting lost.
Self-Reliance and Emergency Preparedness
Self-reliance is important in the backcountry, where immediate
assistance is unavailable. Be prepared to manage equipment
issues or injuries on your own. If you lose a ski or sustain an
injury, it’s up to you or your group to handle the situation.
Carry emergency communication tools, such as a cell phone
or satellite device, but keep in mind that outside help can take
significant time to arrive—potentially hours in many cases.
Managing Time
Winter days are short. Leave a detailed plan with someone who
can initiate a response if you don’t return on time—and choose
routes that allow ample time to return safely before nightfall.
Setting and sticking to turnaround times, no matter how ideal
conditions may seem, is a wise safety measure. Staying aware
of the time and monitoring your pace can help you avoid being
caught out after sunset. Always pack a reliable headlamp; being
out after dark without one can turn an unexpected delay into a
serious situation.
Staying Warm and Dry
Weather conditions can vary widely throughout the day. Proper
layering helps manage body temperature during uphill climbs
and downhill descents. The layering system typically includes
For those ready to move beyond non-technical areas, technical
terrain offers new challenges, often with steeper slopes, and
route complexity. It also introduces dangerous hazards, where
smaller margins for error can quickly turn mistakes into
serious situations. The combination of steep slopes, complex
routes, variable snow conditions, and avalanche risk creates an
environment that demands both skill and discipline. In these
conditions, every decision matters, and even minor errors can
have severe consequences. The ravines on Mount Washington,
along with the higher peaks in the White Mountain National
Forest, are examples of ski terrain that typically requires
technical skills.
Ski within Ability
Understanding and respecting personal limits is one of the most
valuable skills in the backcountry. In this zone, where steep
slopes and variable, and often unforgiving, snow conditions
demand advanced skills, overestimating your abilities can
quickly turn a challenging adventure into a dangerous situation.
In fact, falls in steep terrain are the #1 cause of fatalities and
serious injuries on Mount Washington in the winter. Match
the terrain to your ability and be conservative when in doubt.
In this environment, building skills progressively, practicing
caution, and knowing when to turn back are signs of strength—
not weakness.
Skiing within your ability in technical terrain isn’t just
about staying safe; it’s about gaining experience, confidence,
and judgment to make each backcountry outing both rewarding
and sustainable.
LOCAL GUIDES & AVALANCHE EDUCATION IN THE REGION
Hiring a guide for a day in the mountains is the best way to improve your skills, knowledge, and safety. Below is a partial
list of guide services that operate in the Mt. Washington Valley, and some o昀昀er avalanche education courses as well.
Redline Guiding
www.redlineguiding.com
Northeast Mountaineering
www.nemountaineering.com
Mountain Shadow Adventures
www.mtnshadowadventures.com
Mount Washington Avalanche Center
www.mountwashingtonavalanchecenter.org
Mooney Mountain Guides
www.mooneymountainguides.com
International Mountain Climbing School
www.ime-usa.com/imcs
Eastern Mountain Sports Schools
www.emsoutdoors.com
Chauvin Guides International
www.chauvinguides.com/avalancheprograms
Synnott Mountain Guides
www.newhampshireclimbing.com
East Coast Avalanche Education
www.eastcoastavalancheeducation.com
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Acadia Mountain Guides Climbing School
www.acadiamountainguides.com
MWVvibe.com
