mountainRNr: Utah Backcountry Skiing: Avoiding Early Season Avalanches

My Hawai`i sojourn has come to a close after eight rich years. I have witnessed the battle toward and near completion of a Ph.D; the birth of two amazing, intelligent and hard-charging boys; and for me the trials and triumphs as an ultrarunner and critical care RN.

Our lives have been touched deeply by our friends and family here in the islands and I am continually amazed by the warmth and generosity of the Hawaiian and local people.

To bid a fitting farewell to my life in the islands of Hawai`i I planned and completed the Big Island Traverse (BIT). An approximate 160 mile, unsupported fastpack on the island of Hawai`i. The route traversed the island from sea-level on the southeastern shore, beginning at Holei Sea Arch; ascended Mauna Loa (13,677 feet) and Mauna Kea (13,796 feet); and eventually descended to sea-level on the northwestern shore, ending at Spencer Beach Park and Pu`ukohola Heiau. To my knowledge this variation had not been done. It was a great success - A Hui Hou.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Utah Backcountry Skiing: Avoiding Early Season Avalanches

Early season words of wisdom from experienced backcountry skier, ski mountaineer, professional guide, snow safety officer, and my brother-in-law, John F Mletschnig. John has skied mountains all over the world including: VT, NH, ME WA, WY, CO, ID, UT, AK, Antarctica, Canada, and New Zealand, to name a few.

Utah Backcountry Skiing: Avoiding Early Season Avalanches: Nearly every winter season the story is the same; avalanche burials with often fatal consequence. I suppose it is somewhat late to be writin...