For most backcountry skiers, it is clear that Alpine touring gear rules in ‘real’ mountainous terrain like the Rockies or Alps. But it can easily be overkill and hence not really much fun in less drastic, hilly areas. That is where backcountry Nordic comes into its own… … alas, with its own little snags! Having …

… not that I’m very successful at learning it! The Catamount Trail Association has this page to offer about Using the Rear Foot Actively. Its strength for me and presumably others is that it addresses Alpine skiers and their acquired instincts rather well.  Note: This rear foot business isn’t a detail to investigate once you …

I have been an Alpine skier for over 40 years, but in recent times I have added some Nordic backcountry skiing to my agenda – the main reason being that I can do it in my home area whenever it chances to snow (rarely). I just take a bus up to the local hills and …