WOMEN’S BEYOND THE BOUNDARIES TOUR
After the success of last season’s Women’s Beyond the Boundaries tour, Thredbo Backcountry Tours and The North Face are presenting a women’s backcountry weekend in this season on September 8-9. The weekend will be led by all-female guides with two tours on offer, an Introduction to Backcountry tour and Beyond the Boundaries tour to upskill and boost confidence in exploring the nearby backcountry. Last year’s Beyond the Boundaries Tour was led by two of Thredbo’s female backcountry guides, including head guide Alex Parsons, who were joined by six female backcountry enthusiasts and Thredbo Ambassador Arkie Elliss. The tour was a couple of days after a snowfall and the group enjoyed clear skies and fresh snow. As they headed out to the Ramshead range the guides passed on their expert knowledge to the group, discussing route finding, snow observations, prevailing winds and decision-making in the backcountry. 36
After stopping at the base of Mt Ramshead for a snack break and to take in the epic views of the Main Range it was time to put on crampons and get in some steep ascent practice. The crew powered up the side of the mountain until to the top at 2190m, taking in the views from Australia’s fourthh highest peak. After a transition to downhill riding mode, it was time to ride. “The ladies all had fantastic technique and there was heaps of windblown snow to slash,” said Alex. “After a few high fives, we hunted out some shelter for a lunch spot and chatted about how relaxed and fun it was to have a whole crew of women in the backcountry. It was such a supportive environment and the guides were impressed with everyone’s capabilities.” The wind started to pick up after lunch, so the call was made to head for more-sheltered southeast-facing slopes where the group found windblown powder for a ride down towards Aries Tors, one of the most picturesque spots
in the National Park, and perfect for another snack and a photo break. From there the crew dropped into the side face of Signature Hill before heading back into the resort. “It was easily one of the best backcountry days of the season,” Alex said. “Clear skies, awesome snow and great company. “The women who came are so inspiring and it was a real privilege to guide them and help them on their journeys.” The Women’s’ Backcountry Weekend will kick off on Friday night in Thredbo Alpine Hotel for a meet and greet drink with the guides and a screening of the Australian backcountry film Steep Reflections. The tours will also be joined by a few athletes from The North Face team, rounding out what should be a great experience. Clockwise from Top: Arkie Elliss loving the windblown snow; the group takes in the view; Alex Parson leads the way. Photos: Boen Ferguson
