Today was our first full day together as a group. In preparation for or departure to the backcountry, we’re spending two day skiing at Grand Targhee Resort.

Although i grew up alpine skiing, and have been an avid snowboarder for the past 15 years, today was my first day Telemarking. Telemarking gear looks similar to alpine gear, however the heel of the boot binding on Telemark skis is free travel up and down. That allows the toe to pivot forward,
Giving a lot of freedom of motion. To make use of this motion, the standard telemark turn is significantly different than the alpine ski turn. It requires much more balance, flexibility, and leg strength.

I did a half day lesson, and spent the afternoon doing runs with coursemates.

Tonight we’re returning to NOLS base in Driggs for a bit of field preparation and relaxation. I’m also starting to get a few of my teaching modules together – I’ll be teaching basic backcountry medical and trauma patient assessment system, as well as a few others.