[CS]

I’m planning to do some snow camping this winter, nothing ambitious, just go down NF49 type roads a few miles or the trails in Methow Valley for 2-3 nights. Probably won’t be breaking trails. I tried snowshoes last season, and it was ok, but I think I’d prefer skis; I’ve only ever done downhill at resorts however, no backcountry, no Nordic, never used skins. I thought I get the BD Glidelite 147 and that orange Expedition sled for my camping gear, but the BD Glidelite is discontinued this season. Anyone have thoughts on where to start? Maybe I should try Altai Hoks? Or would just getting downhill skis I can put skins on and Alpine Touring ski boots make more sense?

[Randito]

What's your budget? Alpine touring gear is very capable and efficient and your downhill skiing skills may be applied directly. However AT gear isn't cheap. "Rough touring" gear is significantly less expensive, but the skills needed to are significantly more. Atli Hoks are more of a "sliding snowshoes" than skis. The key to descending with them is the sturdy pole used as a brace/outrigger/brake. It's an ancient method that is effective and requires far less training to master than more modern skiing techniques.

[Randito]

A modern AT setup can easily run $2500 for all new gear. Rough touring gear would be skis like this https://www.rei.com/product/195505/fischer-traverse-78-crownskin-xtralite-cross-country-skis And boots like this https://www.rei.com/product/892159/alpina-alaska-bc-cross-country-ski-boots

[Bronco]

I have a very similar ski, NNN BC bindings and those Alpina Alaska boots. Great setup for meadow and logging road skipping in the Methow.

[hbb]

[RichP]

I'd recommend the metal edges as roads can get pretty icy. I'm not a good skier but took it up for precisely the reason you are interested in using them. You might be able to get an inexpensive set up on craigslist.

[Cyclopath]

You can rent skis in Winthrop. I would very much recommend doing that several times with different skis and boots before buying anything. See what works for you.

[Cyclopath]

[KascadeFlat]

Following this topic because I am also in the process of putting together a ski set up and towing harness for my bike trailer. Slightly tangential question: CS - what are you using as a harness/towing system between you and sled? I have seen DIY options online and have also considered purchasing something like this harness and these poles.

[Cyclopath]

[KascadeFlat]

[Schroder]

I strongly second the suggestion of renting gear first. Skis are pretty personal on what feels right for you & it's an expensive mistake if you pick the wrong ones.

[Randito]

FWIW: I've had positive experiences using the "Paris Expedition Sled" for hauling supplies into ski-in camps. When the approach is steep enough that I'm using skins on my skis for grip, I've used an old pair of glue on skins attached to the bottom of the sled to provide some relief from constant downward / rearward pull. I did learn the hard way on one trip that hauling 100 lbs of food and gear can be problematic even when you are burly enough to do it -- the climbing wires on my skis collapsed under the load and the rest of the trip I had to climb for turns with my heels flat on the ski... But we did have fresh bacon and eggs for many breakfasts on that trip.

[KascadeFlat]

Whoa that video is a trip. Any idea what they were doing? Dragging a sled over ground cover looks…enraging. Hunting maybe? Comments said they had two cases of Diet Coke in the sled. 😂

[thunderhead]

Only the steepest forest roads justify AT gear in my opinion... and even then generally only if they are icy or compact. Any sort of prolonged gentle stretch and im usually quite happy to have brought my nordic gear. I really hate the flat bits on AT gear.