The Right Terrain: Knowing Where and How to Start in the Backcountry

As winter finally begins to switch on across the West, many of us are feeling that familiar pull toward the backcountry. Fresh snow, quiet mountains, and untracked lines are hard to ignore. I’m right there with you. But as exciting as backcountry travel can be, it comes with real responsibility. Knowing where and how to start can make all the difference between a memorable day and a dangerous one.

One of the most important foundations of backcountry travel is having the right gear. Heading out unprepared is not an option. Essential equipment includes an avalanche beacon, shovel, probe, and basic repair tools. Gear failures happen more often than people expect. I’ve personally had days where something broke deep in the backcountry, and I had to improvise to make it back down safely. Being properly equipped gives you options when things don’t go as planned.

Equally important is terrain choice, especially when you’re starting. It’s easy to assume that if you can ski expert terrain inbounds, you’re ready for similar lines in the backcountry. Unfortunately, that mindset can lead to serious consequences. A smart place to begin is on slopes between 25 and 30 degrees. Terrain in this range significantly reduces the likelihood of triggering avalanches while still offering some of the most enjoyable powder turns you’ll find. It’s a perfect balance of safety and fun, and an ideal learning environment.

Another key factor is not going alone. Touring with partners isn’t just more enjoyable, it’s far safer. Having someone with you means shared decision making, an extra set of eyes, and help if something goes wrong. In the backcountry, teamwork can be lifesaving.

Finally, remember why you’re out there in the first place. Have fun, but respect the mountains. Backcountry access is a privilege, and we’re guests in a powerful, unpredictable environment. Treat it with care so it remains wild and pristine for everyone.

There’s much more to learn beyond these basics, but this is a solid starting point. One of the most important steps you can take is enrolling in an Avalanche Level 1 course. It builds the skills and confidence needed to make better decisions and ensures that the people you tour with can trust you. The mountains will always be there. Make sure you are, too.

Avalanche Level 1 Course Providers

United States

• AIARE – American Institute for Avalanche Research & Education
  https://avtraining.org
  Primary U.S. curriculum provider with nationwide course listings.

• AAI – American Alpine Institute
  https://www.alpineinstitute.com/courses/avalanche-training/
  Avalanche Level 1 courses across the Western U.S.

• NOLS Wilderness School
  https://www.nols.edu/en/courses/locations/avalanche-training/
  Avalanche training integrated with broader backcountry curriculum.

• Colorado Mountain School
  https://coloradomountainschool.com/courses/aiare-level-1/
  One of the largest AIARE course providers.

• The Mountaineers (Pacific Northwest)
  https://www.mountaineers.org/courses/avalanche
  AIARE-based education for Washington State backcountry users.

Canada

• Avalanche Canada Training Courses
  https://avalanche.ca/training
  Framework and nationwide directory for AST 1 (Avalanche Skills Training).

• Yamnuska Mountain Adventures
  https://yamnuska.com/avalanche-courses/
  AST 1 and AST 2 courses in the Canadian Rockies.

• Whistler Alpine Guides Bureau
  https://www.whistlerguides.com/avalanche-courses
  AST 1 courses in Whistler and the Coast Range.

Online Preparation Tools & Study Resources

• Avalanche.org Education Center
  https://avalanche.org/education/
  Clear explanations of avalanche problems, forecasts, and basics.

• Avalanche Canada Online Learning
  https://avalanche.ca/learn
  Interactive modules and videos that pair with AST courses.

• AIARE Student Resources
  https://avtraining.org/student-resources/
  Pre-course reading, checklists, and decision-making tools.

• Know Before You Go (KBYG)
  https://kbyg.org/
  Free foundational avalanche safety video series.

• Utah Avalanche Center Learning Zone
  https://utahavalanchecenter.org/education
  Animations, quizzes, and scenario-based learning.

Avalanche Forecast Centers (for practice using forecasts)

• U.S. Forecast Directory
  https://avalanche.org/avalanche-centers/

• Avalanche Canada Forecasts
  https://avalanche.ca/forecast