5 Backcountry Skiing Eastern Sierra Tips

These 5 backcountry skiing Eastern Sierra tips will help to keep people safe. Backcountry skiing can be more dangerous than park skiing. Skiers need to be more aware of the elements, such as avalanche zones, weather forecasts and not getting lost. People skiing in the backcountry of the Eastern Sierra's are often on rural, unmarked trails and should have a check in time ready with other friends in case of emergency.

1. Map Out An Itinerary: This is an easy an obvious tip, but, look at topography maps to get an idea of the lay out of the land and plan a route. Try to stay on track using a map or GPS system. Going off trail can be tempting in the beautiful Eastern Sierras, but the weather can change in an instant and it could be hard to get on the original trail. Let somebody else know what the route is just in case.
2. Stay Aware: There are other things besides avalanches that can injure or kill a backcountry skier. There are tree wells that can entrap a skier if they get to close to the trunk. There are also deep snow drifts that can trap a skier because the terrain hasn't been packed down by others.
3. Prepare for Weather Exposure: It is important to wear the proper layers of clothing while skiing. The first layer should be light and be able to wick moisture away from the body. The second layer needs to be able to keep the body warm. The third layer should be able to keep out wind, rain and snow so that the body doesn't get wet. More or less clothing could be needed depending on the weather and overall temperature.
4. Buy an Avalanche Beacon: These are not going to reduce the risk of being buried in an avalanche, but they can reduce the amount of time a person is buried under one. Probes have often been used in the past and still are, but the beacon and transmitter can help to locate a person buried under an avalanche much faster. The Eastern Sierras are common for avalanche activity in the backcountry.
5. Pack a Survival Kit: A good survival kit should be light enough not to encumber the skier. It should contain extra water, food, first aid kit including a warming blanket, any necessary medication, a flashlight and matches kept in a waterproof bag.

There are also many local guides in the Eastern Sierras that can help to plan for a backcountry skiing trip. There are classes that people can take to learn how to avoid certain dangers and the guides can give out more safety tips. There are also many first aid and CPR classes available. A serious backcountry skier should take any classes that might help them to not only improve in the sport, but to survive out in the wilderness.