5 Tips for Snowboarding in Trees – How to Snowboard

In the video “5 Tips for Snowboarding in Trees – How to Snowboard” by SnowboardProCamp, Kevin shares his top tips for navigating the trees while snowboarding. As an avid snowboarder himself, Kevin finds that snowboarding in the trees allows him to escape the groomed runs and terrain park and explore different areas of the mountain. His first tip is to always ride in the trees with a friend, as tree snowboarding can be isolated, and having a friend nearby can provide assistance in case of crashes or getting stuck. The second tip is to keep your turns small, which helps maintain consistent speed and allows for better maneuverability between the trees. Kevin also emphasizes the importance of using your knees to absorb bumps and keep your board in contact with the snow, as well as planning your route a few turns ahead to choose the best path through the trees. Lastly, he advises being familiar with the trees and knowing where they lead to, as well as understanding the current snow conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

Tip 1: Ride with a Friend

Snowboarding in the trees can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also be quite challenging and even dangerous. That’s why it’s always a good idea to ride with a friend when venturing into the tree-filled terrain. Tree snowboarding can be very isolated, and having a friend by your side means that there is someone there to help you if you crash or get stuck.

When riding with a friend, you can look out for each other and provide assistance when needed. If one of you takes a fall or gets stuck, the other can help to free them or call for help if necessary. Additionally, riding with a friend adds an extra level of safety, as you can rely on each other in case of an emergency.

Not only does riding with a friend enhance your safety, but it also makes the experience more enjoyable. Snowboarding is often seen as a social activity, and having someone to share the excitement and adrenaline rush with can make it even more fun.

Tip 2: Keep Your Turns Small

When snowboarding in the trees, it is crucial to keep your turns small. Small turns allow you to maintain control and maneuver through the tight spaces between the trees. By keeping your turns small, you can navigate the uneven and unpredictable terrain with ease.

It’s important to focus on using both your heel and toe turns equally when making these small turns. This balanced approach enables you to maintain a consistent speed and rhythm as you navigate through the trees.

By keeping your turns small, you can also minimize the risk of collisions or getting your snowboard caught on tree branches. It’s all about being precise and deliberate with your movements, ensuring that you have enough room to maneuver safely.

Tip 3: Use Your Knees in the Trees

The terrain in the trees is never as smooth as the groomed runs. It’s uneven, filled with bumps, and often covered in powdery snow. To maintain stability and control, it’s essential to use your knees effectively.

Bending your knees and keeping them flexed allows you to absorb the bumps and vibrations that you encounter while snowboarding through the trees. This absorption helps keep your snowboard in contact with the snow, providing you with better control and preventing unexpected slips or slides.

Using your knees in the trees is also beneficial for balance. The uneven terrain can throw off your center of gravity, but by bending your knees, you lower your center of gravity and increase stability. It makes it easier to adjust to the ever-changing terrain and prevents you from losing balance or falling unnecessarily.

Tip 4: Plan Your Route

Riding through the trees requires careful planning and foresight. Before diving into the tree-filled terrain, take a moment to plan your route a few turns ahead. By doing so, you can choose the best trees to turn between and anticipate any upcoming obstacles.

Planning your route ahead of time allows you to identify potential hazards and adjust your speed accordingly. It gives you the opportunity to assess whether you need to speed up or slow down to navigate through the trees safely.

It’s also essential to consider the overall layout of the terrain and the specific characteristics of the trees you’ll be riding through. Understanding where the trees lead to and how to get out of a particular area is crucial to avoid getting lost or trapped.

By planning your route and staying aware of your surroundings, you can make the most of your tree snowboarding experience while minimizing risks.

Tip 5: Familiarize Yourself with the Trees

Before heading into the trees, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific area you’ll be riding in. Knowing where the trees lead to and how they are interconnected can help you navigate through the terrain more confidently.

Take the time to explore the area and understand the different routes and possibilities available. This knowledge will give you a sense of direction and prevent you from getting disoriented or lost.

Additionally, be aware of the snow conditions in the tree-filled area. Different areas of the mountain can have varying snow conditions due to factors like sunlight exposure and wind patterns. Understanding the snow conditions will help you determine whether it’s worth riding in the trees on a particular day or if it might be safer to stick to groomed runs.

Being familiar with the trees and the surrounding environment gives you the confidence to explore different areas of the mountain and make the most of your snowboarding experience.

Conclusion

Snowboarding in the trees offers a thrilling and unique experience, allowing you to escape the groomed runs and terrain park and explore different areas of the mountain. However, it’s important to approach tree snowboarding with caution and respect for the challenges it presents.

Riding with a friend enhances your safety and adds to the enjoyment of the experience. Small turns, using your knees effectively, and planning your route ahead of time are crucial for maintaining control and navigating through the trees. Familiarizing yourself with the trees and understanding the snow conditions will further enhance your overall experience.

By following these five tips, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle tree snowboarding and have a great time exploring the mountain’s hidden gems. Remember, safety should always be a priority, so make sure to stay within your comfort zone and always ride responsibly.