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abjectwoe
May, 2025

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Your Views on Volunteer Ski Patrolling

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HIT
Posts: 3524 - Karma: 4,996
Sup NS

I'm taking an Outdoor Emergency Care course next month, hoping to set myself closer to being a heli/backcountry guide during winters.

I've been thinking about volunteering for Ski Patrol for the free season pass, but before I do, it'd be great to get some insight as to what it's like, what I may be getting myself into, if it's worth it, etc.!

Thoughts, opinions, and stories greatly appreciated!
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10 years ago
4 1
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percs
Posts: 2280 - Karma: 5,810
Yo dude. Sounds like you are in the same boat as me two years ago. How old are you and what mountain will you be doing it at? I was a candidate my first year as you will be and I've been a patroller for a year now. You should definitely go for it. Ive learned so much and have created a lot of connections. If you are trying to eventually become a guide then this is good experience. You will do everything a normal patroller does except maybe avi control. Its super fun and with it comes responsibility and power. If you have any questions let me know
10 years ago
1 0
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HIT
Posts: 3524 - Karma: 4,996
keithnollYo dude. Sounds like you are in the same boat as me two years ago. How old are you and what mountain will you be doing it at? I was a candidate my first year as you will be and I've been a patroller for a year now. You should definitely go for it. Ive learned so much and have created a lot of connections. If you are trying to eventually become a guide then this is good experience. You will do everything a normal patroller does except maybe avi control. Its super fun and with it comes responsibility and power. If you have any questions let me know



Cheers man, I appreciate that!

I'm 22, and will be in Whistler, so I would be working for Whistler Blackcomb.
I have a feeling I would get lots of experience evacuating injuries there haha
10 years ago
0 0
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270on420out
Posts: 7524 - Karma: 51,325
Very noble proffession. You'll learn some great skills.
10 years ago
1 0
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_salty_
Posts: 672 - Karma: 1,034
Hey man I heard volunteer patrollers make bank like $150,000 to 200,000 def a good way to make some sick cash
10 years ago
0 1
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corona
Posts: 12845 - Karma: 33,290
great way to get some good hands on experience treating injuries. If I was hiring a backcountry guide applicants with actually experience dealing with injured would have a big +1 rather than those who just have the qualifications but has only cleaned out a few cuts.
10 years ago
0 0
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