Vibe-Winter-2425 - Flipbook - Page 58
BACKCOUNTRY RESOURCES
Mount Washington Avalanche Center:
www.mountwashingtonavalanchecenter.org
Granite Backcountry Alliance:
www.granitebackcountryalliance.org
Avalanche Course Providers:
www.mountwashingtonavalanchecenter.org/
course-providers-guide-services
National Avalanche Center: www.avalanche.org
Know Before You Go - Avalanche Awareness:
www.kbyg.org
Ski Kind - Backcountry Responsibility Code:
www.skikind.org
MWOBS Higher Summits Forecast:
Visibility and weather conditions can change drastically when recreating in
the White Mountains. Check current conditions and the Higher Summits
Forecast at www.mountwashington.org/forecast.
True respect means understanding that even the most advanced gear, extensive training,
and in-depth knowledge can’t fully shield you from the risks in mountain terrain. It calls for
a mindset rooted in humility, caution, and a readiness to adapt to changing conditions.
also disrupt wildlife.
Respect for wildlife is critical to responsible backcountry
use. Give animals plenty of space, especially in winter when
conserving energy is essential for their survival. For human
waste, use designated facilities when available or follow Leave
No Trace principles by packing out waste.
Beyond these practices, it’s also important to share the
backcountry safely and respectfully with others. Avoid traveling
or skiing directly above other groups to prevent placing them
in unnecessary danger from snow slides or falling debris. Uphill
travelers have the right of way, so be mindful of others on
narrow trails and give them the space they need. In avalanche
terrain, communicate with nearby groups about your planned
routes to avoid unexpected hazards or conflicts.
Each of these actions contributes to a culture of safety and
respect, helping to ensure that everyone can experience the backcountry’s beauty and challenges without harm. By being considerate and careful, we help protect these spaces for the enjoyment
of all who come after us. Visit www.skikind.org to learn more.
Respect for the Mountains
Respecting the mountains goes beyond carrying the right
equipment or accumulating experience; it involves recognizing
the inherent power, unpredictability, and sometimes unforgiving nature of these environments. True respect means understanding that even the most advanced gear, extensive training,
and in-depth knowledge can’t fully shield you from the risks
in mountain terrain. It calls for a mindset rooted in humility,
caution, and a readiness to adapt to changing conditions.
Be prepared to turn back if conditions aren’t right. No
objective is worth unnecessary risk. Cultivating respect for the
mountain environment not only enriches each outing but also
builds experience and prepares you to safely return another day.
58
Making it a Rewarding—and Safe—Transition
Transitioning from resort skiing to backcountry skiing is a
journey in self-reliance, skill-building, and understanding
mountain safety. Backcountry skiing rewards skiers with the
solitude of untouched powder and the satisfaction of navigating
natural terrain, but it also demands preparation, respect, and
a commitment to continuous learning. Whether exploring fun
gentle terrain or tackling steeper technical routes, take the time
to build your skills—physically, mentally, and emotionally. With
each new skill you gain, backcountry skiing becomes a more
fulfilling and rewarding experience, allowing you to appreciate
the mountains in their truest form.
This article offers a quick list of important considerations for
stepping beyond the boundaries of ski resorts. While it outlines
some key aspects of backcountry preparedness, it is far from a
complete guide. Training, practice, and ongoing education are
recommended for a thorough understanding.
Jeff Fongemie is the director of the USFS
Mount Washington Avalanche Center,
where he leads and supports a talented
team of avalanche forecasters and
volunteers, specializing in avalanche
forecasting, public outreach, and technical rescue. A lifelong
skier, Jeff began on resort slopes as a child and transitioned to
backcountry skiing in the 1990s. Dedicated to helping others
enjoy the backcountry safely and responsibly, he also volunteers
with the Mountain Rescue Service and serves as adjunct faculty at
Dartmouth’s Wilderness and Austere Medicine Fellowship,
sharing his expertise in mountain safety.
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