Recipe for Perfect Backcountry Ski Day

Being a weekend warrior, it is a rarity that all the key ingredients come together to make the perfect backcountry ski outing. This past weekend I was lucky enough that the recipe could be followed to a T. Ingredients Avalanche danger rating of moderate on most aspects Unlimited amounts of powder Bluebird skies and warm sunshine Five skiers well matched in terms of speed, ability and interest Method Place key ingredients in classic backcountry ski terrain of the Raggeds Wilderness. Set skiers to slowly rise on skin track for 2,300 feet.

When fully risen at summit, prepare skiing utensils.

One at a time drop skiers into large bowl allowing each to carve turns in deep and steep powder.

Photo: Pete Harris

At sounds of hooting and hollering, drop another skier into bowl. Repeat with remaining skiers, beating snow well with each addition.

Once all five have settled at base of bowl, sprinkle with PB&J and water. Leave to rise again. Repeat above process as many times as desired. If snow becomes chopped due to excessive beating or whipping, place skiers into fresh bowl.

When fully cooked or darkness falls, whichever comes first, remove skiers from bowl and decorate with sunburned noses and goofy grins. Serve with chilled beer from snow bank. Makes five tired but extremely contented skiers. Memories can be kept for weeks in airtight container.