Just because you’re an expert skier on the resort does not mean you’re an expert skier in the backcountry. Backcountry level is dependent on your knowledge of the slopes, efficiency on the uphill, and speed through transitions in addition to your actual ability to ski or snowboard downhill. AMGA Certified Ski Guide Will McKay with the Mountain Training Center broke down the three levels from beginner to pro.
Beginner backcountry riders are generally in their first few years exploring off resort. They may or may not have taken an avalanche course, are still taking their time and making several mistakes through the transitions, and haven’t quite figured out the most efficient way of uphill travel. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being a beginner backcountry rider, that’s where everyone starts and it just means you need days in the mountains.
The advanced skier or rider has been on the slopes for 3-7 years, learning through consistent experience and/or classes. They know that the mountains are unforgiving and may have had a close call, pushing risk management toward the front of their mind. Advanced tourers are more dialed through transitions and gear. The pro backcountry skier or snowboarder likely has 7+ years of consistent training, whether they’re working in the backcountry or just a local who spends a lot of time there.
