WORDS BY ALISON JONES | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
As the master of landing switch in deep snow, noted Canadian skier Nick McNutt has made more than a stake of claim in the realm of backcountry skiing. His raw talent has seen him film with TGR, Sweetgrass, and PYP Productions, and he continues to impress as he leads the charge in the next gen of powder skiing.
Here are five questions with the man himself.
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1/ You’ve always got to be at the top of your game, from day one, first chair, first run. How do you prep your fitness for the season?
I spend my off-season trying to be as active as possible. My go-to activities include rock climbing, mountain biking, and scrambling or hiking in the alpine. Early on in the season I just try to ski as much as possible to get my legs back in shape – but nothing gets you ready for skiing as well as skiing can!
2/ Aside from heli-skiing with CMH this winter, what’s on the books for you this season?
My main focus of the season (aside from skiing as much powder as possible), is filming with Teton Gravity Research. I usually end up on a few cool trips with them each season and have the good fortune of skiing with some of the best skiers in the world!
3/ What’s your go-to après beverage of choice?
Whiskey Ginger. Or an ice cold beer.
4/ How would you describe heli-skiing the backcountry in BC to anyone who hasn’t sampled it before?
All of the best feelings about skiing, the speed, the fresh air, and the views are exponentially better when you take away the crowds and infrastructure of a ski resort, and it’s hard to beat the weightless feeling you get when you’re floating on a fresh blanket of powder. Big mountains, a small group of people and endless terrain keep me coming back again and again.
5/ What would you like people to come away with from skiing with you in December?
Hopefully, they leave with sore cheekbones from smiling so much! Sometimes a really minor adjustment in the way you move your body in powder can make a huge difference, so if I can steer someone in the right direction, I’m always happy to help. Whether you’re an expert with tons of experience or it’s your first time in untracked snow, I think we’re going to have a blast and make some memories together!
Learn more about heli-skiing with the best big names in the business like Nick McNutt, Michelle Parker, Sage Cattabriga-Alosa and Warren Smith on our Ambassador Trips.
