Everyone wants to ski and ride powder in the winter and plenty of it exists out of the gates in the side-country and backcountry of Jackson Hole. Those skiers and riders who are willing to earn their turns sans chairlift can find powder stashes long after the last storm and when the resort seems skied out. If you head into the backcountry be prepared and play it safe, since the backcountry is not avalanche patrolled like inbounds terrain at the resort. Venturing out and exploring may just be the best day of your season, but keep in mind that you are ultimately responsible for the well being of yourself and your party and the goal is to have fun and return safely at the end of the day. Be prepared before you go.
Unlike simply showing up to the resort and buying a pass at the ticket window you’ll have to do some prep work before you head out the gates at the resort, or venture up Teton Pass, or into Grand Teton National Park. Ideally you have taken an avalanche course or two. If you haven’t taken one yet don’t worry there are plenty of options to take one in the Tetons with such reputable places as Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, American Avalanche Institute, or Exum Mountain Guides. Do not venture out into the backcountry alone. A ski buddy or a small group of experienced skiers and riders who are familiar with the terrain is ideal for a day in the backcountry. Make sure you check current avalanche conditions at jhavalanche.org as well as the projected weather for the day.
Your brand new fancy pack is not just for toting your skis or board on the boot pack climbs, but should be stocked full of gear and provisions that you’ll need to be comfortable for the afternoon or would need if an emergency arises. At a minimum you’ll need a transceiver and know how to use it as well as an avalanche shovel, and a probe. Make sure you bring plenty of water and food because there are no 7-11s where you are headed. Bring extra layers of clothing in case you get cold and a spare set of gloves, a medical kit for emergencies and a lighter in case you need to start a fire to keep warm. Bring your cellphone to call for help if needed, but keep in mind cell service may be spotty or unreliable. AvaLungs or an avalanche airbag are other valuable items to consider having in your gear arsenal. A good rule of thumb is to bring what you think you would need to be comfortable if you needed to spend the night in the backcountry if something happened. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you are headed.
Like other sports there is backcountry etiquette, be mindful of other skiers you encounter and don’t drop in on them when they are exposed in possible avalanche terrain. It’s kind of like golf; let the group ahead of you have the right of way. When you are skiing in your group and in an exposed area ski one at a time and have an exit strategy in mind if an avalanche were to be triggered. Also identify possible hazards such as rocks, trees, or cliffs below you.
Observe the conditions and pay attention to your surroundings. Listen for sounds in changes in the snowpack and look for clues to the stability of the slope that you are skiing, such as digging a pit to check the stability of the snow or performing a snow cut before you ski that wide-open powder bowl. Also look for visual clues to how the snow appears and keep in mind of rapid warm ups in temperatures that will affect snow stability. Try and have a good idea of where you are at all times in case you had to explain your position to an emergency responder. Discuss options and conditions among your group and make informed decisions before you drop in. Just because you planned to ski a certain route doesn’t mean it’s the right day to do it. It’s better to turn away and ski it another day if you are adding up the signs you observe and they point to no.
Being in the backcountry is a different experience than simply lapping vertical at the resort. The vibe in the Jackson Hole backcountry is more tranquil and will feel reminiscent of enjoying a peaceful hike in the summer time, but the best part is you get to ski or ride down after all that hard work. Just be safe, mitigate risk and enjoy the powder ride.
