Avalanche Awareness Days 2016
This weekend (January 16-17) marks Avalanche Canada's annual Avalanche Awareness Days, a series of events at ski resorts across Canada to promote safety in the backcountry. As guides and avalanche…
Skiing the east face of Vantage Peak, Duffey Lake Road
In case you hadn't heard, December of 2015 was a an all-time month for snow. The Pig Alley Weather Station on Whistler Mountain measured 338cm for the month, making it…
Gear for successful skinning on skis
For first timers heading out into the backcountry, the first challenges usually revolve around equipment. Bindings that switch from ski to walk mode, snowboards that somehow split into half (and…
Essential Mountain Education: First Aid Course
Have you ever been hurt in the mountains or been there when one of your friends were? If it was in a ski resort then you likely only had to…
Forgotten Gear: The Backcountry Map
When driving around looking for a particular street address, do you find yourself watching the smartphone screen instead of the number on the houses? With the trusty Google Maps app (or…
The Tremendous Truth About Trekking Poles
There is much debate - among hikers and guides alike – on whether or not to use trekking poles over long-distances. The question is, are trekking poles worth the investment? When I spent my first summer in the Whistler area a few years ago I started hiking weekly, sometimes daily, to explore the surrounding mountains and trails. I noticed that trekking poles seemed to be increasing in popularity, and to see if it was more than just another equipment trend, I turned to research. When I spent my first summer in the Whistler area a few years ago I started hiking weekly, sometimes daily, to explore the surrounding mountains and trails. I noticed that trekking poles seemed to be increasing in popularity, and to see if it was more than just another equipment trend, I turned to research.
Stay in touch with a satellite communicator
Stepping off the grid into remote locations - away from cell phone signal - is a large part of what makes the experiencing the wilderness experience so special. With smart phones now firmly integrated into our lives and constantly keeping us connected, stepping out of cell phone coverage can give us a sense of freedom, with no one bothering us about work, gossip or pressing social engagements. But despite parties being adequately prepared, accidents can happen in the backcountry. The old school method of letting next-of-kin know your departure point and expected return - while still an important part of trip planning - will only let Search and Rescue (SAR) organizations extrapolate your location in the event of a catastrophe. The good thing is, the technology that keeps us so connected is helping make backcountry travel safer.