Travelling With Minors
Backcountry skiing with a minor can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with added responsibility and risks. It is required that each party have an adult 18 years or older. Here are some precautions to take when skiing with a minor in the backcountry:
Travelling with Minors: Please review the Custodial Group Information Package from Parks Canada.
Education and Training: Ensure that both you and the minor have the necessary knowledge and training in backcountry skiing. This includes avalanche safety, navigation, first aid, and basic survival skills. Consider taking avalanche safety courses together.
Appropriate Gear: Make sure both you and the minor have the appropriate gear, including avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, and shovel), proper clothing, skis/snowboard, bindings, and skins. Ensure the minor's gear fits them properly and is in good working condition.
Check Weather and Avalanche Conditions: Prior to heading out, check the weather forecast and avalanche conditions for the area. Avoid skiing in high-risk avalanche conditions and consider postponing the trip if conditions are unfavorable.
Plan and Communicate: Plan your route in advance and share your itinerary with someone who will not be joining you. Let them know your expected return time. Carry a map, compass, or GPS device, and teach the minor how to use them.
Stay Informed: Keep updated on local regulations, closures, and any wildlife or environmental hazards in the area.
Stay Together: Stick together with the minor at all times. Ensure they understand the importance of staying close and not venturing off on their own.
Safety Discussions: Have regular safety discussions with the minor about avalanche awareness, terrain assessment, and recognizing potential hazards.
Avalanche Beacon Practice: Teach the minor how to properly use an avalanche transceiver, and practice search and rescue scenarios together.
Emergency Plan: Establish an emergency plan, including communication methods, and ensure the minor knows what to do in case of an emergency. Carry a first-aid kit and survival essentials.
Skill Assessment: Evaluate the minor's skiing ability and physical fitness. Choose terrain and routes that match their skill level. Be prepared to modify your plans if conditions change or if the minor becomes fatigued.
Respect Limits: Be ready to turn back or change your plans if conditions deteriorate, or if the minor is feeling uncomfortable or tired. It's essential to prioritize safety over reaching a destination.
Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you both have enough food and water to stay adequately fueled and hydrated throughout the trip.
Sun Protection: Protect against the sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, and appropriate clothing.
Legal Requirements: Be aware of any legal requirements or permits necessary for backcountry skiing in the area.
Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Teach the minor about responsible outdoor ethics, including Leave No Trace, to minimize your impact on the environment.
Know Your Limits: Be honest about your own abilities and do not take unnecessary risks. Set a good example for the minor by making safe decisions.
Emergency Contact Information: Carry emergency contact information, including local authorities and rescue organizations and an appropriate communication device.
Please read the ‘important info’ section prior to departure and refer to Parks Canada’s mountain safety in the Rockies.