Backcountry Cross Country Skiing
Backcountry ski trips require advanced skills and sturdy equipment. In class we cover trip planning, technique, and the equipment/clothing to keep you warm and comfortable. 
Our day trip to
Class includes instructors, transportation from the Portland area, and skis, boots, and poles.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
It is a joy to be out in the snow and be warm and comfortable. While it’s typically not bitter cold in our snowshoe area, you will enjoy the experience much more if you have the appropriate clothing. It hurts our heart to see cold, wet people on the mountain who are putting their well-being at risk and having a miserable time. Ironically, you are more likely to get cold if you first get too warm and end-up with dank, sweaty clothing. Layering is important, as is having synthetic fiber clothing such as fleece and polypropylene (which dries quickly) rather than cotton (which doesn’t).
When you are moving, you need less insulation because you are generating more heat. When you stop, put on more layers to keep from getting chilled and uncomfortable. You will need a daypack to carry your extra clothes and fluids. Please consult with us to ensure you are properly dressed so you can enjoy your trip. Here’s what you should have with you:
It is a joy to be out in the snow and be warm and comfortable. While it’s typically not bitter cold in our snowshoe area, you will enjoy the experience much more if you have the appropriate clothing. It hurts our heart to see cold, wet people on the mountain who are putting their well-being at risk and having a miserable time. Ironically, you are more likely to get cold if you first get too warm and end-up with dank, sweaty clothing. Layering is important, as is having synthetic fiber clothing such as fleece and polypropylene (which dries quickly) rather than cotton (which doesn’t).
When you are moving, you need less insulation because you are generating more heat. When you stop, put on more layers to keep from getting chilled and uncomfortable. You will need a daypack to carry your extra clothes and fluids. Please consult with us to ensure you are properly dressed so you can enjoy your trip. Here’s what you should have with you:Clothing
- Warm snow boots (Hiking boots are OK)
- Wool or polypropylene socks with liners
- Polypropylene or equivalent thermal underwear tops and bottoms
- Warm sweater, fleece jacket, or wool shirt
- Warm pants (No Jeans!)
- Gore-Tex (or other water/wind-resistant material) Parka and Pants
- Gloves/Mittens with windproof shells
- Warm hat
- Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots
In your Day Pack
- Ten Essentials (These are things you should always have with you when venturing out into the backcountry. However, your guides will have all of these items; so if you plan on staying with the group, not everyone needs to have all of these.)
- Whistle
- Map of area
- Compass
- Headlamp (with extra batteries and bulb or another light)
- Extra food and Clothing (wool socks, dry gloves, more warm things)
- Sunscreen and lip protection
- Pocket knife
- Lighter or matches in waterproof container
- Firestarter
- First aid kit (Let us know if you require drugs or medicines that will make you drowsy or dizzy.)
- OTHER
- Two and 1/2 Quarts of Fluids
- Toilet Paper
- Small insulation pad for sitting on
- Handkerchief
- Dark Sunglasses with side shields or Ski Goggles
- Camera and film/memory card
We can rent backpacks and some clothing items. Please let us know if you wish to rent anything.