Pack Like a Pro: Backcountry Skiing

Venturing beyond the lift line? Here's what to bring, courtesy of professional skier Jess McMillan.

Updated July 7, 2025 09:51PM

Marmot athlete Jess McMillan skis the backcountry from the Tetons to Denali, and no matter her objective, she always brings the same eight items. “There is a little song I sing before I leave the parking lot,” she says. “It goes like this: ‘Beacon, shovel, probe. Skins, crampons, extra layer.’”

Black Diamond Ascension Nylon STS Climbing Skins

Buy Black Diamond Ascension Nylon STS Climbing Skins Now

Pack Like a Pro: Backcountry Skiing

Black Diamond Ascension Nylon STS Climbing Skins

Mammut Barryvox Avalanche Transceiver

Marmot Trestles Elite 0 Sleeping Bag

Black Diamond Stinger Crampon

Mammut Carbon Probe 280 Fast Lock

Marmot Ama Dablam Down Jacket

Mammut Alugator Pro Shovel

Marmot Thor 3P Tent