Mount Revelstoke National Park of Canada

Winter Backcountry Checklist

Printable version (PDF, 73 Kb)

Before you head into the backcountry, you need to know how to assess if you're in AVALANCHE TERRAIN, whether hazards exist, and how to minimize your risk. The following information should help you.

Outlined here are some important questions to consider when planning your trip.

• How much experience do you and the members of your group have?
  All backcountry destinations in Glacier National Park require knowledge of travel in avalanche terrain. All members of your party are urged to wear avalanche transceivers and be prepared for self rescue.
• How far would your group be comfortable travelling each day?
  Base your trip on the abilities of the least experienced member of the group. Steep terrain, weather, elevation, and group members' abilities should determine the length, duration and destination of your trip.
• Do you have a good understanding of the hazards you may encounter?
  You should have knowledge of avalanch hazards, experience in avoiding them and a plan to deal with them successfully when required.
• Does anyone know where you are going?
  Leave a detailed itinerary with a friend or fill out and sign a Voluntary Safety Registration at the Rogers Pass Centre.
• Do you know which permits you need?
  You will require a Wilderness Pass for overnight camping trips, a Park Pass for entry into the park, and a permit for skiing in Permit areas that are usually closed for avalanche control purposes.
• Where will you park? All destinations in the Glacier National Park have trailhead parking lots located in safe avalanche terrain. Park to allow for the maximum number of vehicles and for access for snow removal equipment.

This is a list of suggested equipment, which you can adjust to suit your personal preferences. Mountain weather is unpredictable; be prepared for changing conditions.

Clothing

•  Outer shell top and pants
•  Outer shell top and pants
•  Long underwear top/bottom
•  Insulating top (synthetic)
•  Fleece pants and vest
•  Warm hat and gloves / mitts
•  Synthetic outer socks with wicking inner socks
•  Boots - with ankle support and good soles
•  Gaiters or insulated over-boots

Snow Gear

•  Backcountry skis or snowboard
•  Boots
•  Poles
•  Climbing skins or snowshoes
•  Avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel
•  Snow kit (crystal card, loupe, thermometer)
•  Ski repair kit (spare binding parts, tools)
•  Daypack

Other Essentials

•  Compass and topo map
•  Repair kit
•  Food
•  Sunglasses, goggles
•  Waterproof matches/lighter
•  Sunscreen & lip balm
•  Candle, fire starter
•  Water and Gatorade
•  Headlamp extra batteries
•  Toilet paper
•  First Aid kit
•  Knife
•  Signalling whistle/mirror
•  Trip plan (left with friend)
•  Emergency blanket

•  Binoculars
•  Altimeter
•  Notebook and pencil
•  Camera & film
•  Rope
•  Knee pads
•  GPS
•  Book, deck of cards

Camping Gear

•  Backpack
•  Sleeping bag
•  Stove and fuel
•  Water Treatment or Filter
•  Wilderness Pass
•  Tent
•  Sleeping pad
•  Cooking /eating utensils
•  Change of clothes waiting at trailhead
•  Toiletries (including toilet paper)

Check the following reports when planning your trip, and again before you leave. These reports are available at Parks Canada Information Centres, on our website (see Resources and Directory below) and over the phone.

Weather Forecast: Revelstoke and Golden 250.837.4146
Avalanche Bulletin 250.837.MTNS
Warnings and Closures 250.814.5232
Road Report 1.800.550.4997

Regulations

• A valid Wilderness Pass is required and must be kept with you at all times if you're camping.
• Pack out all garbage (including tampons, sanitary napkins, diapers, food waste and foil).
• Do not disturb or remove any natural or cultural objects.
• Pets must be kept on a leash at all times. Consider leaving them at home.
• Do not feed, touch or harass wildlife.

How you can help protect the park.
Leave No Trace: http://www.LNT.org/

• Plan ahead and prepare.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• Minimize campfire impacts.
• Leave what you find.
• Respect wildlife.
• Be considerate of other visitors.

Printable version (PDF, 73 Kb)

Maps and Recommended Reading
Topographic maps and guide books are available for purchase from The Friends of Mount Revelstoke National Park: Phone 250.837.2010
Or visit their Glacier Circle Bookstore at Rogers Pass Centre.

Publications available at Parks Canada Information Centres:

• Ski Touring in Rogers Pass
• Rogers Pass topo maps

Rogers Pass Centre
250.814.5232
rpc.info@pc.gc.ca

Parks Canada Administration Office
301b 3rd Street West, Box 350, Revelstoke BC
250.837.7500
revglacier.reception@pc.gc.ca

Glacier National Park Warden Service
250.814.5202