Togwotee Pass Backcountry Alliance mission is to create a shared space of balanced recreational use free of conflict, envisioning future development to maintain pristine backcountry for all. Non-motorized recreational user groups include nordic and backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers who frequent Togwotee Pass on both the Bridger-Teton and Shoshone National forests.
Photo: Jeramie Prine Skiers: Brad, Matt, Nick climb toward Y-the-heck-not couloir near Breccia.
November 3, 2007 at 6:28 am
I grew up a Lander native, trekking in the Winds, skiing at The Village, and making turns in the backcountry. I savored nothing more than a wide open, virgin powder field and finding a few challenging chutes I could poach with a friend. Yet, at the same time I spent many days with my dad sledding the trails above Lander. I was a “late comer” — his age and health made backpacking and skiing with me out of the question, but he could still enjoy the playground of his youth on the back of a sled or an ATV. You see, it was his way, his only way, to experience the nature he loved. And it was the only option left open to him to get me into the backcountry so he could help me understand the beauty of that environment, its importance to the people of his beloved state, and the wonders it revealed around every corner.
I hope the goal of this alliance is not to destroy my ability to enjoy the backcountry, responsibly, with my two little girls. Some of that time will be spent on boards. Some on snowshoes. Some even in hiking boots. I also expect to give them a more well rounded experience and show them areas via snowmobile they could never reach by other means. The kind of thrills not felt on a pair of skinny skis. A rush of excitement rivaled only on skis in a 45 degree chute. Those experiences for me, my wife, and my daughters are no more or less important than those you will have as you skin quietly up a ridge line in the wilderness, aiming for some col or even a simple wind-blown tree line. Your mission statement calls for maintaining a pristine environment for all. I just hope that “all” includes myself and my family, enjoying the backcountry in a manner we rightfully choose – one that will leave a lasting impression with them, and building a healthy respect for that magical area called Togwotee pass.