In The News – From Touring to Teamwork: Tahoe Locals Create Backcountry Team App
February 15, 2025 | Member Submitted
Originally Published in Moonshine Ink, 2/15/2025, Written by Megan Ramsey
Truckee locals Richard Bothwell and Daniel Feldman chuckled while venturing into the backcountry towards Azalea Lake, recounting how they met. Feldman took the lead as the navigator while Bothwell skinned behind him, gliding off-trail into the light, crusty powder to chat. The zippery-slick sound of mohair ski skins on firm snow whispered through the trees, a smooth buzzing undercurrent to their conversation.
On a sunny day with low avalanche danger, variable and firm snow conditions, and sugary, faceted snow on either side of the well-traveled skin track like an ice luge, Bothwell and Feldman’s backcountry preparation remained the same. They chose their destination and route the day before, briefed each other on expectations for the tour, making sure their intentions were aligned and equipment was ready before clicking into their skis at the trailhead. After each tour, they debriefed each other and provided feedback on what worked well and what they could improve.