General Nordic Safety Considerations

Your safety while participating in our Nordic activities and ski touring is a primary concern of the Oregon Nordic Club. The aim of our trips is to have an enjoyable experience along with other skiers whether we are traveling on easy, marked trails or challenging backcountry routes. Since there is inherent risk in what we do, it is the responsibility of each of us to participate in a thoughtful and intelligent way, matching the trips we participate in to our skill level, and using each trip as an opportunity to improve our skiing and navigation skills and our ability to assess snow safety conditions.

Trip descriptions, maps and trip reports are NOT intended to provide adequate information for independent travel; and the ONC does NOT recommend such use of the information on this site. The trails and trips in backcountry areas may be unmarked and unpatrolled. Navigation in winter conditions can be surprisingly difficult. Thoughtful consideration should be given to the advantages of making trips with experienced group leaders who have local knowledge of terrain and snow conditions.

Avalanches occur regularly in our rugged terrain so you should prepare by visiting the Forest Service Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center website before your ski tour. If you have any concerns about the day's snow safety and avalanche conditions it is wise to await better conditions. The mountains will always be there. We offer the following suggestions and welcome additional ideas from Club members regarding safe ski touring practices.