> It's always backcountry. I don't know the last time a skiier was killed by avalanche on a prepared slope. To my memory it hasn't happened. > But if you willingly take risks, it's not a tragedy if things go bad for you. Amen. Many years ago I went back country snowboarding out west with a group of friends. We had GPS transponders on us and understood that if something bad happened, the rescue helicopter would like as not get to us in time. It was a great trip and we all came back safe and sound, thankfully.