Becoming a more knowledgeable, avalanche-aware skier is an ongoing journey that will never be finished. Through classes and field research, one can learn the habits and patterns exhibited in snow-covered peaks and ultimately make more rational and safer decisions. Of course, there’s always the chance that the “right” decision still leads to an undesirable outcome. Karl Fostvedt knew this, and because of his meticulous practice and rescue, was able to leap into action and help save the life of his friend Chris when good turned to bad in the rugged mountains of Haines, Alaska.
You probably know Fostvedt from his insane skiing, earning him the nickname Crazy Karl. From MSP films to Kings & Queens of Corbets, he has been known to throw some of the most monstrous Cork 7s around and never shy away from a hair-raising line. In truth, what makes him such an incredible member of the ski community is not his flawless riding but his commitment to safety in the mountains and the example he sets as an athlete and a student of the mountains. Fostvedt has been a visible member of the avalanche safety community for many years, and his attitude towards research, education and action when it comes to the subject is incredibly admirable, to say the least. “Karl [Fostvedt] combines the mountain sense he’s developed in really heavy terrain with the core fundamentals of guiding, [and] it’s a really rare mix,” says Ryan Howe, a guide with Stellar Heli Skiing and the company’s Director of Operations.
If you want to get out into any type of backcountry terrain, it’s imperative you take the needed steps to be the best mountain person you can. This will reduce the risk to your own life, as well as your touring partners and search & rescue workers. No matter how good of a skier you are, learning all you can about avalanche safety, first aid, wilderness safety and other topics will make you that much more aware of your environment. Put in the time in the classroom and with enough practice you can start to, as Fostvedt says, BYOG (be your own guide.)
Check out our Q&A with Fostvedt from last season here.
From YouTube:
After a harrowing incident leads to a critical rescue on his first day in AK, Dakine team skier Karl Fostvedt seeks out further education to expand his skills in big mountain terrain. With the goal of becoming the best mountain man and backcountry partner he can be, Fostvedt blends his high-octane ski skills with the calm and patient mindset of a guide and throws down on some of AK’s most daunting terrain.
