Photographer: Jeff Cricco Athlete: Mike Barney Location: Silverton, CO

Backcountry Beta with Mike Barney

Join Black Diamond Athlete and Avalanche Professional Mike Barney on a tour into the basics of snow safety in this series of educational videos.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021

Episode 1: Reading the Avalanche Forecast

The number one step before heading into the backcountry is reading the forecast first. In this episode, Mike Barney teaches us how to properly read an avalanche forecast, from the terminology you’ll encounter, to the diagrams you’ll see.

Winter is coming, so that means it’s time to not only sharpen your sticks and boards, but also hone your snow safety skills. To kick off the season, we reached out to our trusted friend and athlete Mike Barney to pick his brain on snow safety, and we’re stoked to share three episodes of his Backcountry Beta. But first, a little background on Mike.

Few people spend more days on snow than Black Diamond Athlete Mike Barney. He’s been a ski guide for the last two decades and spends an average of nine months a year taking clients into the backcountry. He’s amassed a level of knowledge in the mountains that’s unparalleled, which is why he’s continually sought after by the best guiding outfits around the world. He’s also previously worked as the avalanche forecaster for Silverton, Colorado, using his extensive knowledge to keep backcountry users safe.

In this series, Barney covers the basic beta for avalanche safety. From understanding how to properly read a forecast before leaving your home, to the correct techniques of avalanche rescue, these videos provide an educational look into the world of snow safety. Use them as a reference-guide to better understand the basics, but please note what Barney mentions at the end of each episode: these videos are no substitute for taking an in-field avalanche safety course.