FEATURED POST
Tracks of a Legend
Loading ...Two days ago, a group of skiers – Hans Johnstone, Dan Nordstrom, Martin Volken and Christian Beckwith descended the Stettner Couloir on the 40th anniversary to the day of its first descent. The Stettner was Bill Brigg’s original line of descent. Here’s the story.
How to Fold a Map
Loading ...Martin Volken has used a fair share of maps during his career as an IFMGA Guide and owner of ProGuiding. It’s no surprise then, that he has a trick or two up his sleeves when it comes to managing them. Here’s Martin’s secret on how to most usefully fold a map.
VertFest 2011
Loading ...[ February 12, 2011; February 13, 2011; ] VertFest is back - bigger and better than ever!
Come join us for 2 days of clinics, demos, films and of course the biggest rando rally in the Northwest! It all begins on Saturday February 12th at Alpental with Ski Photography clinics with Grant Gunderson and Jason Hummel. Sidecoutnry Adventure Skiing with pros and guides from [...]
Efficient Ski Transitions
Loading ...IFMGA Guide Martin Volken shares his wisdom on how to efficiently transition from ski-to-skin and back again, along with tips on keeping the system simple to stay better organized in the backcountry.
Packing for an Overnight Alpine Ascent
Loading ...Martin Volken – an IFMGA Guide and owner of ProGuiding Service of North Bend, Oregon – takes time before a recent trip to describe what exactly should go into a pack for an overnight alpine ascent. Martin reviews all the essential gear – his ‘house’ equipment, his personal equipment, the technical equipment, and the safety [...]
The Declaration of Mountain Travel
Loading ...Declaration of Mountain Travel: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
I have been in the guiding business for just about 20 years now. I would be lying if I said that I became a mountain guide to interact with a large diversity of people. I simply wanted to go to the mountains and needed some [...]
VertFest 2010
Loading ...This past Saturday marked the 4th Annual VertFest uphill/downhill race at Alpental Ski Area benefiting the Friends of the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center. With a record breaking number of competitors, gorgeous spring sunshine overhead, and a very challenging, exciting course set by Martin Volken, the day was one of story-worthy proportions. Here is a [...]
The Making of an AMGA Guide
Loading ...This glimpse into the rigors guides go through to become certified by the AMGA makes it incredibly apparent how skilled and talented they are. Martin Volken – IFMGA guide, instructor/examiner for the AMGA ski mountaineering program, and owner of ProGuiding Service based in North Bend, WA – shot this video during a recent AMGA Alpine Exam in the North Cascades.
Who’s in Charge?
Loading ...When the mountains close one door of adventure, they open another for an opportunity to reconnect with an old friend …
