National Backcountry Ski Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Backcountry Ski Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Backcountry Ski Day is celebrated on March 4th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Backcountry Ski Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you ought to know about National Backcountry Ski Day.

📅 What day is National Backcountry Ski Day 2024?

In 2024, National Backcountry Ski Day is on Saturday, March 4th. It is the 1st Saturday in March; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can discover all the fun details and facts about March 4, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

If you love the winter, skiing, and exploring more difficult terrain, then National Backcountry Ski Day on March 4 is the perfect event for you. Backcountry skiing, which involves skiing on rough, ungroomed, and natural terrain rather than traditional ski resort trails, is gaining popularity in the United States. It is in such high demand that many states now provide various backcountry ski routes, which are either connected to resorts, located within national parks, or in other suitable areas. So, if you’re eager to hit the slopes and experience the thrill of backcountry skiing, there are plenty of options available to you.

📜 National Backcountry Ski Day History

As time went on, people started using skis not just for transportation, but also for fun and adventure. Ski resorts began adding ropes, chairlifts, and other equipment to make it easier for skiers to go uphill. The first rope tow in the US was introduced in 1934 at Vermont’s “Suicide Six Ski Resort,” marking a shift between resort skiing and backcountry skiing. Back then, backcountry skiing was more common, but with the development of ski resorts, it took a back seat. Snowboarding emerged in the 1960s but was initially banned at most resorts, pushing enthusiasts to seek out backcountry areas. The increasing cost of resort skiing has also made backcountry skiing more attractive. With advancements in equipment and safety measures, backcountry skiing is now gaining popularity again. Peter Arlein, CEO of mountainFLOW, a company that promotes eco-friendly ski and snowboard wax products, co-founded an event to encourage safe backcountry techniques. Various activities are planned for this day, aimed at educating all levels of backcountry skiers about avalanche safety.

✅ National Backcountry Ski Day Facts

🔖 Why avalanche gear is crucial
In the United States, avalanches claim the lives of approximately one person every month, and these tragic events have also occurred in various remote skiing regions.

🔖 Backcountry skiing and ski resorts
In Europe and Canada, several ski resorts allow tourists to ski off-trail, however, the regulations at ski resorts in the United States differ depending on the specific local laws in place.

🔖 Backcountry skiing goes by different names
In some parts of the world, people refer to it as alpine touring or “out-of-area,” whereas in Europe, it is commonly known as “off-piste.”

👍 Why Is National Backcountry Ski Day Important

Skiing is one of the most liberating sensations you can have, and backcountry skiing takes it to a whole other level. Untouched and difficult trails provide an exciting snowy playground waiting for you.

Backcountry skiing requires around 80% uphill travel to get to downhill skiing. While it does take a minor mental shift to appreciate the uphill trip, doing so also allows us to appreciate the slower pace of going up the mountain. Who knows, you might even come across some elusive creatures and flora along the route!

Backcountry skiing is a very physical sport that is all the more intimate because it is just you and Mother Nature away from the noise of the city and even the resort. There were no ski patrol, attendants, or resort workers to help.

🙂 How To Observe National Backcountry Ski Day

⚡ Test your backcountry skiing skills

⚡ Take up skiing lessons
Search for locations that offer skiing lessons and organized tours in remote areas, and register for them. Since avalanche safety is crucial for backcountry skiing, you should also consider exploring additional safety and awareness resources available online.

⚡ Choose your ski spot
Spend the day backcountry skiing on a variety of slopes and paths. Check that your safety equipment is up-to-date and that your senses are tuned in to any potential avalanches.

📅 When is National Backcountry Ski Day?

See all 🔗 March holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Activities holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about National Backcountry Ski Day. So be sure to check back soon.