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As temperatures (finally!) continue to drop, the countdown is on to the first ski day of the season. And if your season is likely to include even a single day in the backcountry, it’s as important to make sure your backcountry knowledge is up to date. It doesn’t matter how much time you’ve spent in the backcountry in winters past, there is constantly new and better information available to us, plus, my brain gets rusty from all the summer heat.
So before you even think about pulling out your beacon, shovel, and probe, set aside 10 minutes to take this avalanche safety quiz from BCA. It will help keep your know-how fresh and highlight what skills you may need to refresh before the snow falls. I’ll be honest, I missed two. Luckily, I was safely at my computer when I made these mistakes, but in a real-life scenario, errors like that could be fatal for my skiing partners or me.
If you’re looking to improve your knowledge of winter backcountry travel, sign up for an avy course in your area. AIARE can help you find one here.
Once you’re up to speed on the latest safety protocols and equipment, treat yourself to a look at the best backcountry skis of 2023.