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Do You Want to Test Your Beacon Skills?

March 20, 2018

You come to Steamboat to Ski at the resort or take a fun backcountry trip on Powdercats snowcats.  You probably don't think too much about needing to know how to use a beacon.  And that is for a good reason - the Steamboat Ski Area controls the in-bound ski terrain.  They do an amazing job and there is not much to worry about because they patrol/control all in-bound areas before we ski it. 

There are also not too many options to back country ski off of the resort's property, and they do a great job of roping the in-bound areas so you know what has already been controlled.  The resort also does a great job putting up signs that say 'you are on your own risk' if you exit the in-bound sections.  Another cool thing the Steamboat Ski area does for backcountry is offering a 'Beacon Basin' training area outside of the Ski Patrol Headquarters station off the Sundown Express lift.  

As the backcountry trend grows, it is smart to know how to use the gear.  I enjoy the occasional backcountry skiing outside of Steamboat with my friends and family.  Rabbit Ears Pass and some surrounding areas have decent lower grade terrain.  I have taken an avalanche course, however I know how important it is to brush up on my beacon skills often.  The only way to feel confident in using a beacon is to practice... practice... and practice some more.  The Steamboat Ski Area 'Beacon Basin' is an amazing place to practice and it's FREE when  you have a lift ticket.  Head up Sundown Express lift and exit to your left where you will see the Ski Patrol Headquarters.  Feel free to knock on the door to say hello and see if you can use their beacons, or just cruise on over to the 'Beacon Bason' sign where you can use your own beacon.  Have a partner(s) so someone can be at the black box controlling the beacons and know when the searchers have detected the correct buried beacon.  It is a safe way to practice your beacon skills and my favorite part is, it feels relaxed and is really fun, especially if you go with a few friends.  Just another great thing the Steamboat Ski Area is offering to its guests.  Now go out and enjoy the fresh snow!

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Photo:  Beacon Basin practice area at the Steamboat Ski Area.

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