The Aura of Shasta

Jeremy Jones and Nick Rusell boot up to a Shasta portal. Photo: Brennan Lagasse

The first time I laid eyes on Mt. Shasta I almost swerved right off interstate I-5 and crashed. I had heard about the mountain, but had no idea of its history, mythical status, or that it was really that big. In the moment, my instincts quickly brought me back to the reality that I was driving on… Continue reading The Aura of Shasta

A One-Way Lap Around The World | Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal

Breaking trail for our crew in Georgia Photo: Paul Olerich

I distinctly remember one morning last year in China thinking, if we ever get out of here, I’m going to have to write a piece titled-“Down with Disease”. Beyond being a favorite song for many of us (start with 12/29/97 and let the set roll if you need a little inspiration ????) the one line,… Continue reading A One-Way Lap Around The World | Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal

Yosemite Magic | Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal

We’re skinning in puffys. Temperatures hover around zero. With headlamps lighting our way, it’s one of those mornings where as palpable as the excitement for the day is, we’re still far enough away from our objective to keep quiet in the skin track and stay on the move. I know what lies ahead even though… Continue reading Yosemite Magic | Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal

Alaskan Dream Lines

Booting up Pontoon with the crew, March, 2019

If you haven’t already caught wind of the 50 Project, do yourself a favor and check out Cody Townsend’s YouTube Channel.  While the project in and of itself is visionary, the way Cody and Bjarne have shared their process, experience, and lessons learned from the project is to me a major gift to the greater… Continue reading Alaskan Dream Lines

Kyrgyzstan

The first issue of Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal for the 2019-2020 ski season has hit mountain shops across the American West. Happy to contribute photography and words for a piece about backcountry skiing in Kyrgyzstan while guiding for 40 Tribes last winter. The Tien Shan are mystical range of peaks found in Central Asia, whose… Continue reading Kyrgyzstan

SIBERIA

The latest Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal is on newsstands now. Happy to contribute some original photography in the issue, as well as this feature piece on Siberia. This was a super memorable trip to guide with a fabulous crew of clients, and some of the deepest snow I’ve experienced. The lead shot is one the… Continue reading SIBERIA

WILD TURNS IN AMERICA’S SERENGETI

Flying into the heart of the Hulahula River and the Arctic Refuge

I need to commit. But it doesn’t feel right. The water is deeper, and the current is faster than it was when we crossed the river 12 hours earlier. I retreat backwards and shake my head at my partner Shana. Our initial crossing was sporty to say the least. Although the sun being out and… Continue reading WILD TURNS IN AMERICA’S SERENGETI

State of the Tahoe Backcountry 2017-2018: A Season in Review with Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal

Toby Schwindt in the Crescent Couloir. For a winter look at the same line with the same guy, in almost the same spot, check out the full article.

The State of the Backcountry report has evolved over the years. The current offering is in partnership with Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal detailing the 2017-2018 ski season in Tahoe supported by original photography. For a print version find a copy in your favorite ski shop. Enjoy! And here’s to a safe, BIG 2018-2019 snow season… Continue reading State of the Tahoe Backcountry 2017-2018: A Season in Review with Ascent Backcountry Snow Journal