Backcountry Skiing
Though telemark skiing is nothing new in the world, it has become increasingly popular in the US, especially as it appeals to those who love backcountry challenges. The old heavy equipment and more Norwegian style have given way to cabled bindings and plastic made boots. It is fast becoming the favourite past time of adventurous skiers and daring modern day explorers, especially in Yellowstone.
Yellowstone has always run on the cutting edge of adventure when it comes to sports and even geology, but it is now seeing a surge in interest in a sport that has long since been something old tales from Norwegian and pre-WWII children's' story books – telemarking skiing. Telemark has always traditionally been a Norwegian invention and most importantly something designed specifically for backcountry adventures.
It has seen resurgence and growth in North America amongst the local ski resorts as so many mountains and outer lying areas around Yellowstone have easy access to perfect wilderness ski slopes. In fact, this has been combined with heli skiing for the ultimate challenges.
Telemark equipment got its name because of the unique turn the skis allow the skier to perform, without the usual binding attachment to the heels. Also, skiers new to this form of skiing will note that one ski is longer than the other and used for easy turns. Sadly the popularity of telemarking ended during WWII, but in recent years and with better developments in equipment, people are becoming more and more interested. In fact, Yellowstone is now providing international instructors, brought in from Italy and other countries where telemark skiing is not only an active sport, but even used by their military – England, Finland, Denmark, etc.
When considering trying telemark skiing, tourists are advised to consider that entire families used this as a means of transportation in heavy northern European snows and high mountainous terrain as in many cases no other means of getting from one place to another was possible. Even today, the use of telemark skiing is as predominant in Europe as it was so many years ago. However, in Yellowstone, it is more about adventure and recreation than the need to travel for any given purpose.
Other pages you might find helpful:
Crested Butte Skiing
Plan a ski trip to Crested Butte Colorado. Skiing information at AllCrestedButte.com.
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