How to Get Started with Backcountry Snowboarding

Backcountry snowboarding is the activity of riding terrain that is not monitored, patrolled, or maintained. Often, this means hiking uphill to snowboard downhill terrain that is not operated by resorts. Backcountry snowboarding is increasing in popularity, with the allure of untracked runs and zero crowds appealing to more riders as resort attendance increases. And they may be onto something, because there is perhaps no greater freedom than the feeling of that first turn on a wide-open backcountry glade with not a single other person in sight.

However, it’s not quite as simple as just hiking out somewhere and dropping in. The backcountry presents many, many unique challenges and dangers that riders should be aware of before venturing out. So, if backcountry snowboarding is something that you want to get started with, or you just plan to ride sidecountry/slackcountry and want a better understanding of the backcountry, this guide covers the most important aspects of safety, gear, and planning.

Disclaimer: If you would like to stop reading here, understand that absolutely no one should ever go into the backcountry alone, and/or without knowledge of the terrain, weather, and snowpack, as well as all the necessary safety equipment for the terrain they're using and a practiced working knowledge of how to use that safety equipment.

• History of Backcountry Snowboarding
• Backcountry Safety
• Backcountry Snowboarding Gear
• Planning a Backcountry Trip
• Additional Resources

A Brief History of Backcountry Snowboarding

In the early days of snowboarding, most resorts did not allow standing sideways and so “backcountry” riding was really the only option, but as companies like Burton expanded and snowboarding became more acceptable and mainstream, riders steadily migrated to lift-accessible terrain. However, there remained a dedicated group of riders who were focused on filming backcountry lines and finding terrain to build jumps on without the interference of ski patrol.

Industry historians mostly agree that true backcountry snowboarding was born in the late 1980s, when snowboarding pioneers began exploring unpatrolled terrain on snowshoes and snowmobiles. Then, in the early 1990s, high-profile backcountry snowboarding films featuring helicopters opened up an entire new way of finding terrain. And finally, in the late 2000s, the popularity of splitboarding coupled with surging lift ticket prices caused the number of backcountry riders to explode.

Getting Started in the Backcountry

Getting started with backcountry snowboarding comes down to three main things: safety, gear, and planning. But even when all of these factors are carefully considered, there are no guarantees that everything will work out. If you take away only one thing, remember this: The backcountry is unpredictable and inherently risky and you are putting yourself and others in danger by exploring it without the necessary education and preparation.

Backcountry Safety

It's all fun and games until your hunt for pow becomes a rescue mission. The snowboard community has lost a tragic number of friends, from beginners to some of the most renowned experts, due to the ever-present risks of backcountry mountaineering and snowboarding. No powder turn is worth a life. If you think the safety precautions outlined in this article aren't necessary for you, take a deep breath and think again. Review the following information carefully.

Whenever you travel outside of inbounds terrain, you are responsible for your own safety and you should not rely on outside assistance or rescue in the event of an emergency. With that in mind, here are a few of the top backcountry dangers:

• Avalanches
• Cliffs
• Tree wells
• Inclement/unpredictable weather
• Frostbite, hypothermia, and exposure
• Dehydration
• Fatigue
• Injury
• Getting lost

Many of these dangers can be mitigated with proper gear and planning, but experts still die every year, regardless of how prepared they are. However, there are a few best practices for staying safe in the backcountry.

1. Take an avalanche certification course. While some regional organizations may offer free introductory classes, if you really plan on venturing out into the backcountry you should get certified with a Level 1 course. Review the list of global AIARE Avalanche Course Providers and sign up for one near you. While a Level 1 course won’t make you an expert, it will teach you the basics of snowpack assessment, snow stability, rescue and recovery protocols (how to use a beacon, shovel, and probe), terrain trap identification, group travel, and fundamental backcountry decision-making. Once you have your certification, practice avalanche rescues (a lot).
2. Pay close attention the weather. Get to know the weather patterns in the area you want to explore and always pack lots of gear for all possible weather contingencies.
3. Take an honest look at your skill level. It’s fun to ride at the edge of your comfort zone while inbounds, but this can have disastrous consequences in the backcountry if you get injured or lost.
4. Never ride alone. When traveling out-of-bounds, always ride with a trusted partner or a small group of friends who all have similar experience levels and are all educated on proper backcountry safety.
5. Trust your gut. If a situation does not look or feel right, exercise good judgement and back out.

Backcountry Snowboarding Gear

Traveling into the backcountry is similar to backpacking and other off-grid activities and we generally recommend the Ten Essentials plus a few other snowboard-specific items:

• Beacon/shovel/probe: We covered this already, but avalanche safety is one of the most important components of backcountry snowboarding. Do NOT leave the lot without these three items. No exceptions. It is also worth noting that just having this gear does not make you safe, you also need to know how to use it.
• Backpack: A reliable (and comfortable) backpack goes a long way in improving a backcountry excursion. Look for something lightweight that offers customizable fit adjustments, helmet carrying loops, goggle/tool compartments, board carrying straps, and plenty of space for water and snacks.
• Navigation: At a minimum, backcountry travelers should carry a compass and map. Don’t count on the GPS of your mobile device when your life is on the line. Pro tip: Consider a combination compass/inclinometer (like the Suunto MC-2) for measuring slope angles as well.
• Sun protection: Sun reflects off the snow fiercely, and many first-time backcountry riders have been known to sunburn the underside of their nose. Always carry a small tube of water/sweat resistant sunscreen (SPF 50+).
• Proper layers: Managing sweat in the backcountry is very important for staying dry and comfortable. Avoid cotton layers and focus on synthetic layers that will wick moisture and dry quickly. It’s also a good idea to have a spare pair of socks and gloves/mittens.
• Proper outerwear: The weather can change instantly and significantly (especially at higher elevations) so it is critical that riders are prepared to add additional layers if wind or snow picks up. Keep a spare puffy jacket or insulation layer in a stuff sack (with your other dry layers) and an additional waterproof shell just in case.
• Headlamp: Even if you only plan to be out during the day, toss your headlamp in your pack to avoid being caught off guard if the trip takes longer than expected.
• First-aid kit: We hope you won’t need it, but a basic first-aid kit should always live in your backcountry pack.
• Waterproof matches: Fire can be an emergency signal, heat for cooking, and a source of warmth; the negligible weight is worth the potential benefit.
• Gear repair: A pocketknife or multitool is perfect if you get the top and realize you have some loose screws. Also, wrap some duct tape around your water bottle in case you need to patch a jacket on-the-fly.
• Food: Hiking in the backcountry expends lots of energy so make sure to have plenty of high-calorie, no-cook replenishment snacks like energy bars or granola.
• Water: Drink plenty of water before heading out and make sure to regularly hydrate throughout the day. Remember that additional hydration is needed at higher elevations.

Pro tip: Avoid using a bladder system on cold days (as it is common for the water in the tube to freeze) and opt for an insulated container like a Thermos instead.

While we recommend a splitboard for backcountry snowboarding, many people start out on snowshoes and strap a regular board to their pack for the climb. This option is generally cheaper but also means that you will be carrying more weight on the way up. Either way, an approved helmet, reliable snowboard boots, and a good set of collapsible poles are essential as well.

Planning a Backcountry Trip

Make a point of familiarizing yourself with your gear, your route, and your partners before you head out. The following checklist is a great starting point for most new backcountry riders.

The weeks before a trip:

1. Get educated. Take an avalanche course. Research weather patterns.
2. Get to know your gear. Perform practice avalanche burial recoveries. Take your splitboard apart and put it back together; once you get good, practice with gloves on. Collapse your poles.

The day before a trip:

3. Check the conditions. Review the weather forecast for the day (and the upcoming days). Visit your local avalanche forecaster site and check the snow conditions.
4. Identify a route, with alternative options.
5. Pack your bag with the essentials.
6. Check/replace the batteries in your beacon.
7. Tell a friend where you’re going and when you expect to be back.

The day of the trip:

8. Check the conditions (again). Note: Experienced backcountry riders know when to cancel a trip.
9. Pre-ride group discussion. Test beacons with everyone in your group. Talk through everyone’s skill levels in regard to hiking/skinning, riding, and rescuing.
10. Dig a snow pit. If the snow stability does not match the forecast, discuss alternative options or routes and don’t be afraid to cancel the trip.
11. Communicate. Maintain visual and vocal contact with the members of your party (at all times).
12. Shred! Ride safely and within your abilities.

Pro tip: Communication is key, both within your party and to the outside world. Handheld radios are great for keeping in touch with your party across short distances. A Garmin inReach or satellite-enabled cell phone should be considered mandatory equipment for backcountry travel.

Additional Resources for Backcountry Snowboarding

Backcountry Access (BCA) Blog
Avalanche Encyclopedia
American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) Course Finder