A grass-roots backcountry festival is happening in Nelson, BC in February complete with clinics, demos, Tele Races, Randonee Rally, slide shows, movies, parties and lots deep powder skiing. I'm not working for anyone- just trying to get the word out about this cool event in my backyard.

I'm racing in the Randonee Rally, and would like to see a big turnout for the race. I think events like this are the future of Ski Mountaineering Races. The sport is all about getting the backcountry community together, and why not have a big party while we're at it.

The list of pros giving the clinics is pretty impressive. Steep Skiing with Eric Pehota, Andrew McLean, and Maegan Carney. Touring clinics are led by the likes of Greg Hill, Pete Swenson and Martin Volken, while the freeheel crew will be represented by Nils Larsen, Naheed Henderson and lots of others.

If anyone is interested in trying their first Ski Mountaineering Race there is good information on this website: http://www.ussma.org/, or email me at scoldiron@spokanefire.org with questions.

Let's get out and support this festival! Their website is: http://www.mountaingear.com/coldsmoke/Festival.aspx