Sandi M. wrote:
The "off-piste/backcountry skiing" was more a language question. I'm no
native english speaker, so I was just wondering.

We all have the right equipment (and we know how to use them) and we've
done regular trips in the Alps, both backcountry and for convenience
off-piste in some resorts.
But I know that meteorological conditions are very different in the Alps
and the Wasatch. Even if being an expert for the Alps (I don't wanna claim
being that, but at least I have some experiences), it doesn't mean you're
one for the Wasatch (probably similar for Canadian Rockies and Wasatch for
example).
But as you seem to know what you're talking about: How is it with avalanche
formation especially there? I guess, as the snow is less dense and more
powdery, that you won't find the typical layering (with more slippery
layers in between) as in the Alps as sublimation, due to less humidity,
prevails. And the temperatures are higher as well. But just my guess. What
are your experiences concerning the main dangers (compared to other locations)?

Thanks for the critics, you're absolutely right!
Sandi

Well, since I live in Colorado, I can only mention generalizations
about Wasatch backcountry and Klaus seem to have covered that pretty
well. What I will say about Colorado and it probably holds true for
Utah right now is that it looks like we have a pretty bad start this
season when it comes to backcountry skiing. Here we have had two major
storms dropping about a half meter of heavy wet snow in each storm.
For the last few days it has been warm and sunny and the snow is
getting pretty crunchy. Not something you want for a base layer.
Around here, those kind of conditions can ruin things until March or
so. Since you will be in Utah around 20 Dec. that's usually a bit
early for backcountry skiing but you could get lucky.

As others have said, ask around in some of the local bars at the ski
areas. Around here most of the bartenders are pretty hardcore or they
know someone who is. When you work at night, you tend to get out a lot
during the day. Try to find someone who has been out and can tell you
the current conditions or better yet go out with you.

snoig