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60-Second Expert: The Etiquette of Backcountry Bootpacks

by steve casimiro on February 10, 2010 · 2 comments

2 responses


With this short film, The Adventure Life is pleased to launch the first of a series of informational clips called 60-Second Expert. In this inaugural spot, we address the issue of getting along in the backcountry. You’d think the wild winter spaces would offer room for all of us, but that’s not always true. In high traffic backcountry spots like Teton Pass, Wyoming, where this was shot, there have been numerous conflicts and near fistfights over misunderstandings and a disparity of attitudes. A few simple guidelines can make it better for everyone.

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Tagged as: backcountry, skiing, snowboarding

{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

David Dietzgen February 10, 2010 at 17:51

That sounds like the angry week end warrior worried about the blown out spot that he parked a mile down the road from. Why? because a million other warriors are out there gettin’ it. The problem with overcrowded spots is boot pack rage. Simmer down now fellows and after yelling at the person in front of you very loudly, remember they might be wearing music. Oh and let power-buster run up because he is in a hurry. And always bring your dog on a dangerous avi day, because it makes most people stoked.

Boot packs, cowboys, is like that Zen bullshit, it’s never perfect. And fellows that is OK. Try draggin’ a sled across shitty snow, then attempt to communicate with your rope partner a half a mile ahead who happens to be listening to the music you despise. That little shit just won’t slow down!

That is my response to you wonderful video. Hey nice shades buddy! Maybe next time you can show me how to make a upwards kick-turn on a steep icy hill.

And remember folks don’t take anything too seriously. The production value, succinctness and sound is very good. You guys ain’t no amateur. You know I love you. right?

Peace,
pumalogy

Scott Rinckenberger February 10, 2010 at 18:37

I like the 60 second expert concept. Perfect way to share easily digestible tidbits with people who only have a couple minutes to spare. Love the idea of everyone paying attention to the pace of the other people on the trail and yielding as needed. Common sense, but often overlooked through ignorance or pride. The guy that can pass you on the hike can also pass you while you’re bucking boots or skiing down, so you’re not “winning” any extra pow by holding up the line. It would also be great to mention skin tracks and snowshoes. Skin tracks can be hard to put in, but once they’re established, they make uphill travel incredibly efficient as long as people don’t bootpack in them. Snowshoes wreck bootpacks and skin tracks, but people shouldn’t need to snowshoe in the tracks, the whole point of snowshoes is that they stay on top of the snow. Make or use the established track for your preferred method of travel, don’t wreck the nearest track you can find just because it’s easier. Happy Travels!

Scott

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