Lead Photo Credit: Olly Bowman
On a cold, snowy morning in Chamonix, where the jagged peaks of the French Alps pierce heavy clouds, I found myself bundled in layers, ready to shadow the ski patrol at Le Balme and Les Grands Montets. The air smelled of fresh powder and possibility. It was just another day for the patrollers at the resorts but for me, I had the rare chance to step into the boots of these unsung mountain heroes.
Sweeping the Slopes at Dawn
Photo Credit: Olly Bowman
The day began before the lifts cranked to life. Thick snow muffled the world, lending an eerie calm to the mountain. “You never know what you’ll find out here,” one patroller had told me as we rode the lift to the top, the barely visible, untouched slopes below us.
I joined the patrollers as they strapped on their skis, checked their radios and prepared for the morning sweep. Moving down the mountain methodically and calculated, they looked for hazards—loose rocks, unstable snowpack, hidden obstacles—marking danger zones with bright flags and setting up safety barriers. The heavy snowfall complicated their work but never slowed them down even as they stopped to explain their work along the way.
In France, becoming a ski patroller is no small feat. It requires certifications in avalanche risk management, advanced first aid and mountain rescue techniques. These are men and women who read the mountain like a book—one filled with shifting plots and sudden twists especially when snowing as hard as it was that morning.
Mountain Safety: A High-Stakes Balancing Act
Photo Credit: Rich Stoner
Ski patrollers are more than just rescuers; they’re guardians of the slopes. On this snowy day where the visibility was nil, I watched them prepare the terrain for public use. They were checking signs and safety netting, constantly adapting to changing conditions. “The orange poles on the right side highlight the trail, a patroller named Arnaud explained. Be sure to stay to the left of them,” he added, offering advice that certainly came in handy as the visibility continued to worsen, and on piste trails became less and less discernable.
Photo Credit: Olly Bowman
During a quick coffee, I had the chance to chat further with these professionals and see their tools up close. The rescue sled, a simple yet ingenious device, is a lifeline for injured skiers. One patroller explained how its design allows for smooth transport down treacherous slopes.
Speaking further with them, they were adamant on the crucial role that Helly Hansen’s gear plays in their daily work. The patrollers swear by the brand’s high-performance jackets and pants designed specifically for them and built to withstand brutal conditions like the ones we were in.
Photo Credit: Olly Bowman
Stefan, a lead patroller at Le Balme, spoke proudly about the protective overcoat he was wearing, saying, “In conditions like this, I never leave the station without it.” His endorsement carries extra weight, given that his son, Yan Viallet—a Helly Hansen ambassador and World Freeride Tour competitor—was skiing alongside us that day. Joining us too was pro skier Marcus Caston, who shared his own praise for the brand throughout the week. It’s clear why Helly Hansen’s slogan, “trusted by professionals,” resonates with ski patrol teams and other professionals across the globe.
Avalanche Dog Demo: Life-Saving Precision
Photo Credit: Olly Bowman
Moving from Le Balme to Les Grands Montets – another Chamonix area resort – midday, I took in one of the highlights of my day while witnessing an avalanche dog demonstration. The handler, a calm, steady presence, unleashed the dog on a simulated search. Nose to the snow, tail wagging furiously, the dog darted through the thick, deep snow, locating the “victim” in minutes.
“This could save a life,” the handler said simply, his gloved hand resting on the dog’s head. Their sense of smell can be the difference in the person surviving or not.” Watching this well-oiled partnership in action was humbling. It was a reminder of just how prepared these teams are for worst-case scenarios.
The Afternoon Sweep: Full Circle
Photo Credit: Olly Bowman
By the time we geared up for the afternoon sweep, the snowfall had subsided, visibility opened up, and the patrollers moved down the mountain with quiet confidence. Their task was the same: ensure every skier made it off the mountain safely.
I followed their tracks, feeling the weight of the day’s work and a newfound respect for these professionals. They don’t just respond to emergencies; they prevent them. Without their vigilance, our beloved ski days would be far more perilous.
A Toast to the Heroes of the Mountain
Photo Credit: Olly Bowman
As the lifts shut down and the last skiers descended, we gathered at the base of Les Grand Montets for a well-earned round of après-ski beers. Snow clung to our jackets, melted by the warmth of camaraderie.
We toasted to the patrollers, the unsung protectors who make our days on the slopes not just thrilling but safe. They are the pulse of the mountain—steady, strong, and essential.
Closing Reflections: Celebrating International Ski Patrol Day
Photo Credit: Rich Stoner
On International Ski Patrol Day, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the people who brave the elements, day in and day out, to keep us safe. They are the heart and soul of every mountain, from Chamonix to Deer Valley.
So next time you ski, maybe pause and thank a patroller. Or better yet, buy them a beer. They’ve earned it—and then some.
About the Author
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres