May, 2003
Mountain Adventure Seminars has created a monthly newsletter for the greater MAS community. Our mission is to provide information that is both informative and enjoyable. Please note that your email address will never be sold or shared. If you would prefer not to receive this then please go to the bottom of this email to unsubscribe.
Table of Contents



MAS Moments
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Copious amounts of snow have fallen in the Sierra and Cascade Ranges during the month of April! So far more than 100 inches of snow has fallen in Bear Valley, CA this month, and more is on the way . Therefore MAS is ramping up for a recharged backcountry ski and snowboard season. Our apologies if a month ago we were warning people that the backcountry ski and snowboard season might end early. Boy were we wrong .

MAS / BaseCamp Special
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In Celebration of the new snow, MAS is offering a 10% discount on our remaining California-based ski and snowboard courses for the 2002/03 winter season. For those already registered in one of these a courses don't worry, you have the option of either a 10% refund, or a 15% credit.
Course Date
Special Price
May 24-25
$225.00
June 20-22
$319.50

New Program
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• The Bear Valley High Mountain Pass Cycle Camp is coming this June 28-29 in preparation for the upcoming Tour of the California Alps (aka - Death Ride). New this year MAS and BaseCamp are coordinating a weekend of supported rides, evening clinics, and delicious meals. Click here for more information.

MAS Guide Tip #2
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For some folks skiing and snowboarding in the backcountry* is what spring recreation is all about ! Even for those less enthusiastic, being prepared for backcountry travel often affords safer experiences, greater enjoyment, as well as making more sweet turns if your so inclined. Setting aside time for trip preparation is a good idea, and who knows, you just might prevent a mishap from becoming an epic .

* Backcountry – A generic term that refers to areas that are relatively unmodified and usually accessible only by foot, horse, watercraft, or Off Highway Vehicle (OHV).

General Backcountry Considerations:
• Let somebody know about your backcountry plans: when, where, how, and length, plus with whom, and alternate plans if any. Good idea to arrange a "check-in" upon return (e.g. – give someone a call).
• Expect you and your group to be on their own in respect to gear maintenance, medical issues, and rescue needs.
• Groups are often safer than solo or small party travel.
Take care of your feet. Without them we are pretty helpless in the backcountry. This also includes the legs and hips.
Inspect your gear ahead of time.

Useful Links

• The Couloir Magazine website provides a good backcountry ski and snowboard packing checklist

• This is a cool PDF on Backcountry Safety from the Kosciuszko National Park, Australia (588K)

Tips for Flatlanders Training for Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding


MAS Photo Album
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Back in April several MAS folks and friends went skiing at the Sorceror Lodge in the Selkirks of British Columbia. We were blessed with good weather, amazing powder, excellent guides and of course good friends. Here are a few of the pictures from our adventure.