Background skiing has been for a long time a favourite sport to the skiers in the northeast and has become more popular in the last ten years. Following this new tendency, many ski resorts have opened more glades for the adherents of the background skiing, marking them as Black diamond or expert trails on the maps. There are different types of glade skiing, such as overland ski touring, which is actually cross-country skiing but comprises territory, estranged from the groomed trails and refers more to panoramic walking and enjoying the sights than simply exercising. Another type of adventure is the mountain ski touring, which features mountain climbing and downhill skiing, away from the pistes full of people. Skiing on some unexplored terrains can bring you a lot of experience, provide you with beautiful views and new places but it hides its own risks and can be dangerous. In order to survive and feel maximum pleasure from this sport, it is necessary to follow certain tips.

First of all, you have to obtain the necessary skills and assess the difficulty of the ski route according to your ski level. Therefore, it is a question of personal responsibility. If you see that the glades trail is closed, avoid skiing near the rope and do not get into trouble.

Also, think well and do not go in the woods on your own. If something happens, the ski patrols may be too far away to reach. Thus, take at least two other friends with you, in case of emergency the one can stay with the person that is hurt, while the second goes for help. It is obligatory to take your cell phone and radio in case there is no network. Pay attention to the weather conditions and prognosis for avalanches. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and take enough equipment, as well as proper clothes to protect you from cold winds, snow and ice. Besides the rest, wearing helmet will keep you safe from injuries; the goggles will be a safeguard against sudden obstacles like little branches on your way. When you see that the wood terrain finishes soon, be aware of what comes next. If it is a groomed trail, slow down and look around for people sliding nearby.

Take the decision to go to the woods in advance, do not go in the late afternoon when it will be getting dark soon and people will leave the pistes. If you are a backcountry traveler, it may happen that you go too distant or the weather gets worse and it is impossible to return on time. That is why you have to think about an emergency plan how to spend the night and to have the necessary gear for that (at least a tent and sleeping bag). Taking into consideration these tips and being thoughtful when making decisions means that your glade skiing might be safe and pleasant. Be always prepared for some unexpected situations and keep in mind the thought of a ski patroller about backcountry skiing: Ski good or eat wood.