In Their Packs & On Their Backs is a recurring feature here on the CTA blog where we take a peek inside the packs of seasoned backcountry skiers to see what they take with them when out exploring Vermont in the winter. By exposing some of the choices these winter professionals have made, we hope to inform those who still have questions about what to bring when heading off into the woods. Please keep in mind that we’re not here to tell you what to do or not do… that’s for you to decide.
In this issue, we’ll take a look into Amy Kelsey’s pack. Amy served as the CTA’s Trail Director from 2008-2012 and is currently the CTA’s Executive Director. Back in the day, she lived out of a backpack for months at a time, and taught others how to live out of their backpacks, too. Although winter camping still holds some allure, she’s also happy to keep her pack relatively light, and opt for indoor accommodations after a day on the trail.
Here’s what was in Amy’s pack one recent morning as she headed out for a pre-work ski:
– Gregory Targhee Pack
– REI hooded softshell
– Mountain Hardware Down Puffy
– Giro helmet
– Smith goggles
– Sunglasses
– Buff, for extra cold weather
– Small First Aid Kit
– Cell phone
– Map
– Duct Tape
– Compass
– Multi-tool
– Cotton bandana
– Snacks: a handful of bars, just in case
– Water bottle
– Thermos of tea
– 2 pair Marmot goretex insulated mittens (she has to work harder than some to keep her hands warm)
– 1 pair fleece gloves (for climbing)
– Black Diamond Skins
– Small handsaw
– Knee Pads
Ski Equipment:
– Black Diamond Joule skis
– Black Diamond 01 Telemark bindings
– Black Diamond flicklock adjustable poles
– Scarpa T2 Telemark Boots
On Amy’s Back:
– Ibex wool underwear and jog bra
– Hot chillys long johns
– Smartwool lightweight zip turtleneck
– Patagonia R2 jacket
– Patagonia Goretex Bibs (circa 2002, but great on a cold day)
– CTA fleece hat
Are you a backcountry explorer? If you are we want to know what’s in your pack too. It doesn’t matter if you use XCD, AT, tele, or splitboard equipment. We want to see it all. Just send us a photo of your equipment all laid out neatly, a picture of yourself, a short bio, and 2 lists… 1 detailing the equipment on your body, and the other detailing the equipment in your pack. You can submit your info to gmaino@catamounttrail.org
