Inspired by Steve Christie’s suggestion to share our avalanche stories, I thought I’d tell mine, before Lou tells his. (Note from Lou, he says “everyone, got any stories? How about a guest blog?”) Dave DowningDave “Snowman” Downing lives in Whitefish,…

It should be noted that entire first day at the International Snow Science Workshop (ISSW) in Whistler was given over to presentations from a variety of international experts from both North America and Europe regarding multiple versus single burial technique and technology. As Christian noted, Backcountry Access feels that single burial scenarios are what should be emphasized. We at Ortovox strongly disagree.

I attended this year’s ISSW (September 21-26 in Whistler), and enjoyed the conference format with a trade-show-like experience, where between oral and poster presentations you’re able to wander among manufacturers’ booths.

So I wrote in my backpacking journal on a four-day backpack trip this July in Olympic National Park in Washington (not Greece despite popular belief). The trip was with Summit for Someone, a fundraising climb series benefiting Big City Mountaineers. I had convinced my good friend Lane Keough to take on this adventure with me. After months of fundraising and training, we were finally undertaking what would be my hardest, but most enjoyable, expedition to date.

Mystery Ranch backpacks factory tour