The Revelstoke Mountaineer is hosting a series of articles as a media sponsor of Canuck Splitfest 2016.
Contributed by Parks Canada
Glacier National Park, with its deep snow and steep slopes, is paradise for adventurous splitboarders. Descents of more than 1500 metres are possible, with an accumulated snowpack at treeline averaging 3.5 metres (about 14 metres of average annual snowfall at treeline — and even more snow found at higher elevations). This is one of Canada’s most avalanche-prone areas.
“There are very few areas in Rogers Pass where skiers or splitboarders can avoid avalanche terrain,” says Danyelle Magnan, Visitor Safety Officer for Glacier National Park. “If you want to ski or board here, you need to have proper training to assess avalanche terrain and conditions and the appropriate equipment and skills for self-rescue. You also need a National Park Pass and a Winter Permit.”
Parks Canada provides up-to-date information regarding open and closed areas, avalanche hazard rating, forecasted weather conditions and snowpack conditions so that visitors and Splitfest participants can make informed decisions about when, where and if they should travel in avalanche terrain.
“The safety of visitors and staff is a primary concern for Parks Canada,” says Magnan. “If you are new to Rogers Pass, it is essential you understand the Winter Permit System and be aware of the risks of backcountry use as conditions can change very quickly.”
For current avalanche bulletins, weather forecast or information on the Winter Permit System (including on-line quiz) visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/skirogerspass or the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre (open daily from 7:00am – 4:00pm; Tuesday to Friday, closed 12:30-1:30pm).
To find out which Winter Restricted Areas are open visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/glaciertrails
Related Links: www.avalanche.ca or www.parksmountainsafety.ca
Parks Canada is the country’s largest tourism provider and delivers memorable visitor experiences to millions of people while conserving these special places for all Canadians.
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