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Sometimes we dig!
Wrecks, dismounts, sleds being ghost-ridden down mountains, lawn darts into creek bottoms, if we’re talking scary moments and hilarious out-of-control stunts, I’ve seen my share. Every backcountry guide has had moments like these at some point.
Some days I’m simply a professional digger, riding from stuck sled to stuck sled. Other days there isn’t a fresh flake of snow anywhere in the woods and I’m stuck being a meteorologist explaining El Niño or La Nina and how a group was unfortunate for planning its trip when it did.
“A week earlier or later, you probably would have hit the snow perfect!” I’ve used that phrase more than a few times.
I have a passion for this job though. I grew up snowmobiling, and yes, after 6,000 miles on a snowmobile each winter even I can get a little burned out. Anyone would. But by July my thoughts are already turning toward winter and those face shots of powder.
There are so many good times as a guide, and opportunities to educate riders as well.
I love teaching people how to use their avalanche equipment. Every rider wears a beacon and carries a shovel and probe in a backpack on our trips. If you don’t have your own, we’ll provide it for you.
The first morning with a group we do a mini-seminar on avalanche safety, and how to perform a rescue in the event of an avalanche burial. This knowledge could save a life someday in the backcountry. It makes a person feel pretty good to know they could be saving a life with this information, and I am teaching them the best that I can because that life could end up being mine. I have had clients hire me simply for this peace of mind and the ability to hopefully dig a buddy out after a slide. Or better yet, avoid an avalanche altogether.
Most days we start a fire in the woods, cook hotdogs or brats and get to bond as clients and guides. I never get tired of the question, “How are you going to start a fire on the snow?” Just gather some wood and watch. I wasn’t a Boy Scout, but fire starter or gasoline solves many problems! There are always good stories and big laughs over our fire in the woods, and some of my favorite memories of my fellow riders come from these relaxing times.
Guiding in the backcountry is filled with highs and lows, like any job. I have the greatest office in the world though, and have met some amazing people.
Riding abilities vary greatly with each group, and trips have to be adjusted daily to compensate for those variations. Some days clients are challenged to make the top of Two Top Mountain, a scenic and fairly simple ride to the summit. Other days the most serious backcountry terrain available is exactly what we are looking for. This creates unique challenges for a guide and a sharp eye for talent and experience is paramount for keeping trips fun and safe.
But as long as everyone leaves with a big smile on their face and are talking about a return trip next year, I’ve done my job. This satisfaction, along with a few good snow-in-the-face turns of my own every day, makes this the greatest job in the world.
I really am, “livin’ the dream.”
Taylor DeTienne is a backcountry guide in winter and works at a fly fishing shop in summer. He is originally from Windsor, Colo., but has lived in Montana for 10 years. You can email him directly at Highmarkexc@gmail.com or via Ace Powder Guides at Acepowder@yahoo.com