November 21, 2006 | Tips from Us >
Whistler, Backcountry Skiing
Find more information about Whistler - Backcountry Skiing
This year for the first time I'm venturing off the groomed slopes and into a backcountry ski adventure. In preparation for my trip, I'm taking a Recreational Avalanche Course to help avoid bad decisions on the wrong slopes. If you're planning a backcountry trip yourself, you should definitely do the same. You can find information on courses at
Canadian Avalanche Association. The course is a combination of classroom and field-work, and a really crucial part of preparing for backcountry conditions. The CAA is generally a really great resource for folks headed into the backcountry, as it also maintains avalanche weather reports and danger level bulletins. I'm taking my course through
Whistler Alpine Guides, which is held over a weekend in Whistler, a convenient way to take the course, and a great excuse to spend a weekend in Whistler. I also need all new ski gear, as my downhill equipment is not going to suit a ski touring expedition. But instead of shelling out many hundreds for a new setup, I'll start with renting at least some gear:
Mountain Equipment Coop has a rentals as well as sales for both AT and Telemark gear, as well as beacons, probes, shovels and skins.