Backcountry safety

Staying safe and travelling responsibly

Backcountry loosely refers to any environment out with a ski resort boundary and terrain that is not pisted or ski-patrolled. For many it also includes some none groomed unmarked areas within a resort. This in-resort activity is sometimes referred to as Sidecountry.

Ski Touring and splitboarding are amazing ways to enjoy the backcountry snow covered hills and mountains in winter. With the right education, understanding and equipment you can go out and enjoy the mountains well away from the crowds in the resorts.  Enabling you to choose your own routes and descents.

This page includes

Snowsmart

Key Considerations

Scottish Ski Touring Code

Skills Courses

IMPORTANT TO NOTE

Entering Backcountry terrain places all responsibility for safety and risk on the participant/s.

Anyone venturing into the backcountry must understand this responsibility and individuals need to understand how snow conditions, weather and terrain choice all influence safe judgment in avalanche decision making and finding the best snow conditions to enjoy.

Being led by a suitably qualified and experienced person may be an attractive and appropriate option for those still developing experience, judgement & skill.

Although not designed to replace appropriate tuition, our Snowsmart courses will help with on and off piste safety, and build on your knowledge and confidence. Click the image below to learn more

6 Key Considerations

To keep you safe on your journey

  • Make a plan and ask yourself are you as a person prepared and capable to complete your plan?

    A day out ski-touring or splitboarding can be tailored to every individual, perhaps a short lap in the ski-area, or an excursion to a remote Munro, but a good day out is one that is manageable by everyone in your group.

    Our Backcountry essentials webinar has more info here

    Our Fatmap Guidebook of routes including some good starting points in-resort

  • It’s generally good practice to head out with a partner or two, if anything or the company but also to have assistance when its needed.

    The people that make up your group inform how your day will go. The skill level of the group may dictate your journey, as will fitness.

    Group dynamics also extend to decision making, making good choices on route and snow relies on good group dynamics.

    Looking for a partner? Try British Backcountry on facebook

  • Being safe when travelling outside the confines of a ski area requires a multifaceted approach.

    In terms of safety equipment a helmet is considered a fundamental.

    A Tranceiver, Shovel, Probe, are the basics you and each of your group require if you have to rescue one another from an avalanche.

    Our partner Glenmore lodge has a video going through kit among other great resources here

  • The weather can make or break a good day out. Do you have an up to date forecast?

    Metoffice

    MountainWeather

  • There are no route markers or signs to keep you right in the backcountry. Navigation is a fundamental skill required to travel safely, particulary in whiteout condtions.

    For nevigation skills see our partners - Mountaineering Scotland excellent resources

  • When is a slope safe from avalanches?

    The Scottish Avalanche Information Service provides daily forecasts through winter at key areas

    https://www.sais.gov.uk/

    F    or a great education resource on travelling safely through avalanche terrain visit this page

SNOWSPORTS TOURING AND MANAGED RESORTS

SKILLS COURSES

This winter Snowsport Scotland will be running its annual series of education courses for ski tourers and split boarders looking to build their skills.