Community Conversations Saving Lives in the Backcountry

Nelson SOTS 2023, Tom Wilson

At its core, State of the Snowpack (SOTS) has always been about one thing: bringing people together.

In every mountain town, there’s a shared passion for the outdoors — for the turns, the climbs, the snow, and the freedom that comes with exploring the backcountry. But with that freedom comes responsibility. Understanding the snowpack, conditions, and risks is essential — and SOTS exists to make that knowledge accessible to everyone.

Bridging the Gap Between Professionals and the Public

Recreational backcountry users don’t have access to the same snowpack data and observations that operators, guides, and avalanche professionals collect every day. And while Avalanche Canada provides comprehensive regional forecasts, each range and valley has its own story.

That’s where SOTS comes in.

Through free, community-based events, local avalanche professionals share their expertise and on-the-ground insights with their neighbours — the same people skiing, sledding, and touring in the same terrain. These open conversations help translate professional observations into practical, local knowledge that everyone can understand and use.

SOTS events are more than presentations — they’re opportunities for people to connect, share experiences, and develop a deeper awareness of the mountains around them. They’re a space where information flows freely, questions are encouraged, and learning happens through community.

Breaking Down Barriers to Safety

From the beginning, SOTS has been about breaking down barriers — barriers to knowledge, access, and connection. That’s why our events will always remain free to attend.

By creating an open, inclusive space where local experts can speak directly to their communities, SOTS helps ensure that lifesaving information isn’t locked behind technical reports or training budgets. It’s shared openly — for everyone, by those who know their snowpack best.

Grassroots, Led by Locals

SOTS will always remain a grassroots movement, powered by the passion and dedication of local organizers and avalanche professionals. Each chapter is led by locals, for locals, with the SOTS team providing the toolkit, guidance, and support needed to plan, promote, and deliver successful events.

Every chapter reflects the character of its own community — because mountain towns know what mountain towns need.

Join the Movement

If you’d like to bring State of the Snowpack to your community, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re an avalanche professional, guide, patroller, or simply someone who believes in community connection and backcountry safety, SOTS can help you make it happen.

Reach out to us at thestateofthesnowpack@gmail.com to learn how to start a chapter, host an event, or get involved.

Because at the end of the day, SOTS isn’t just about snow science — it’s about people.
It’s about community conversations saving lives in the backcountry.