Backcountry Skiing

BACKCOUNTRY SKIING Leadership

See the list of current leaders, here.

1. CERTIFICATIONS

Basic First Aid and CPR

2. FAMILIARITY WITH EQUIPMENT

Distinguishes between Nordic, cross-country, touring and backcountry gear.

Is familiar with the bindings we have in the eroom: including both split-board (snowboard) bindings and three-pin bindings.

Leader can properly fit helmets to individuals.

Leader can properly fit backpacks to individuals.

Leader can properly fit individuals to poles, boots and skis – or split-board and poles – or snowshoes and poles, e.g.

Leader can properly match and apply skins to skis/splitboard, and can demonstrate the proper care of them in and off the snow.

Leader is aware of the other backcountry equipment we have, including ski crampons, ice tools, e.g., when to use them and their appropriate use.

Leader knows how and can fix/replace broken equipment if need be, in or off the snow.

Leader is familiar with avalanche safety equipment, including shovels, probes and avy beacons.

Leader must be able to actively demonstrate the ability to use avalanche beacons and avalanche tools.

3. BASIC BACKCOUNTRY SKILLS

Leader can demonstrate and teach basic skinning technique/snowshoeing technique.

Leader can demonstrate and teach how to properly apply and remove climbing skins.

Leader can demonstrate and teach how to use the equipment properly: climbing bars, heel cables, boot settings, e.g.

Leader can navigate through terrain; including both the ascent and descent.

Leader acknowledges the ability levels of those in the group.

4. SAFETY SKILLS

Knows how to prevent, recognize, and treat hypothermia.

Knows how to prevent, recognize, and treat frostbite.

Understands the extreme importance of layering, wet-wicking clothing and cold weather clothing.

Is able to read both a compass and a topographic map and use them to navigate.

Is familiar with the risks of potential backcountry/mountain travel, including tree wells, blizzards, ice and avalanches.

Leader MUST be able to demonstrate ability to use avalanche beacons and avalanche tools.

Leader MUST have knowledge of weather forecast, recent snowfall and potential avalanche dangers.

Leader MUST understand the local terrain, ability of the group and carry with them essential backcountry gear.

5. INSTRUCTION

Is able to provide effective instruction to both beginners and those seeking a backcountry skiing/boarding leadership.

6. RECOMMENDED ADDITIONAL SKILLS (OPTIONAL)

Basic Ideas and Knowledge Backcountry Leaders should know, regardless of whatever their area is:

Alpine/AT/Telemark Skiing:

– Understands the Alpine/AT/Telemark binding and boot system

– Understands the basic alpine/telemark turn, including, lead leg and how to stop/slow down on skis

– Understands the differences between the various skis, and potential problems they may encounter

Snowboarding/Splitboarding:

– Understands the basic snowboard/split-board binding and boot system

– Understands the differences between goofy and regular

– Understands the basic snowboard turn (toe and heel turns), and how to slow/stop on a snowboard

– Understands the differences between the various bindings, and the potential problems they may encounter

Snowshoes:

– Understands how to properly fit and use a snowshoe

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