Glade skiing involves navigating through trees, either off-trail or along designated wooded routes. Many riders seek glades for their solitude, natural beauty, and untouched snow. Trees help preserve powder by providing shade and wind protection. While glade skiing offers a unique experience, it comes with increased risks compared to groomed runs. Hazards such as cliffs, streams, tree wells, logs, stumps, and hidden obstacles may not be marked or secured by ski patrol. Glades are best suited for advanced skiers, though some moderate terrain is available for those developing their skills.

Tree wells form around the base of trees where branches prevent snow from filling in. These voids, often hidden from view, can trap skiers and riders in deep, loose snow, increasing the risk of Snow Immersion Suffocation (SIS). Evergreen trees, such as fir and hemlock, commonly create deep tree wells.

Your awareness and preparation can make all the difference in preventing accidents and ensuring a safe experience at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Keep reading below to educate yourself and feel more prepared.

Safety Tips for Glade Skiing

• Wear a helmet, goggles, and gloves for protection.
• Always ski or ride with a partner and maintain visual contact.
• Be aware that glades are not regularly patrolled.
• Exercise caution and stay within your ability level.

Understanding Tree Wells

Since tree wells are difficult to identify, always assume they pose a potential hazard.

Prevention Techniques

• Ski or ride with a partner and keep them in sight at all times—90% of tree well victims cannot self-rescue.
• Focus on open spaces rather than the trees themselves.
• Remove ski pole straps to avoid entanglement.
• Stay in control and avoid deep snow near tree bases.
• Regroup often in dense trees or low-visibility conditions.
• Carry essential safety gear, such as a transceiver, whistle, shovel, probe, and Recco device.
• Keep your phone on you and share your real-time location with your riding partner.

If You Fall Into a Tree Well

• Call for help. Use a whistle or yell to alert your partner.
• Keep your head above the snow. Grab branches or the tree trunk if possible.
• Create space around your face to protect your airway. Avoid struggling, as it can cause further entrapment.
• Stay calm to conserve air.
• Trust your partner to reach you and provide assistance.
• Call Ski Patrol at Revelstoke Mountain Resort for emergency assistance. Save the resort’s emergency number before heading out.

If Your Riding Partner Falls Into a Tree Well

Over half of SIS victims were with a partner who lost sight of them. If you can’t see your partner, assume they need help.

• DO NOT leave to get help—stay with your partner!
• Call for assistance. Use a whistle, yell for help, or contact Ski Patrol.
• Assess the scene for safety.
• IMMEDIATELY begin rescue efforts.
• Clear the airway first, avoiding additional snow displacement.
• Do not pull the victim out in the direction they fell. Instead, tunnel in from the side.
• Expand the tunnel carefully until you can safely extract them.

Your awareness and preparation can make all the difference in preventing accidents and ensuring a safe experience at Revelstoke Mountain Resort.