Off Piste

An expert guide to skiing "out of bounds," away from the crowds and commotion of the bustling resorts. Packed with tips, techniques, and 125 outstanding color photos.

Imagine standing in splendid solitude at the top of a slope--all virgin powder, no other skiers in sight. If you've skied off piste, you know the sensation; if you haven't, you may be on the verge of discovering a whole new world. Many skiers, however, think that off-piste skiing is beyond them, only for the experts. They have images of the steep and deep, of the rocky and narrow. These places do exist, but off-piste skiing also has a gentle side. With a little guidance and the right conditions, almost any intermediate skier can enjoy the thrill, the freedom, and the beauty of skiing "out of bounds." Now, off-piste expert Wayne Watson takes you away from the crowded, urban feel of the ski resorts to a breathtaking new realm. His book is full of tips and techniques to help you deal with the varied snow conditions and terrain found in back country; in addition, he explains off-piste procedures, etiquette, and snow management. Most importantly, he tells you how to minimize your risks to experience the best skiing of your life.