Mountains offer a rare freedom in a world where gyms, bars, and bowling alleys come with new risk. The respite of outdoor recreation coupled with actual pandemic-level cabin fever—as well as limited resort openings, increased work-from-home schedules, and garage shelves stocked with every available Costco trail snack—means that more skiers and riders will head into the backcountry this coming season than ever before.
Record backcountry stoke comes with increased pressure on access points, heightened avalanche risks, and new potential for user group conflicts, not to mention the challenges of COVID compounded decision-making. The way I see it, a few simple (but deliberate) conversations and considerations can help us stay safe and sane this winter.