New Film ‘Clean Slate‘ Captures Epic Skiing Adventures in Wyoming and Alaska
Table of Contents
- 1. New Film ‘Clean Slate’ Captures Epic Skiing Adventures in Wyoming and Alaska
- 2. Navigating Wyoming’s Challenging Terrain
- 3. Alaska’s Unpredictable Beauty
- 4. The Core of ‘Clean Slate’
- 5. The Rise of Ski Films and Documentaries
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Clean Slate’
- 7. What potential risks does Teton Brown face by pursuing “first descent” experiences in Alaska’s backcountry?
- 8. Clean Slate: Teton Brown’s Journey from Wyoming to Alaska Pursuing Powder and New Lines
- 9. From Jackson hole to the Last Frontier: A shift in Terrain
- 10. The Allure of Alaskan Backcountry Skiing
- 11. Adapting to the Alaskan Environment: Challenges and Preparations
- 12. Early Alaskan Projects & notable Lines
- 13. Gear & Technology for Alaskan Backcountry Skiing
- 14. The Future: Continued Exploration and Film projects
Western Wyoming and Alaska’s Chugach Mountains served as the dramatic backdrops for “Clean Slate,” the latest project by filmmaker Teton Brown, in collaboration with Zag Skis. The short film chronicles a quest for remarkable skiing zones and pristine powder, offering viewers a glimpse into the dedication and skill required to capture such breathtaking footage.
Much of the winter was devoted to filming in Wyoming, where Brown and his team meticulously scouted new locations, tackling steep and technically demanding slopes. Despite tough conditions, characterized by warmer temperatures and limited sunshine, the crew successfully gathered compelling imagery for a specific segment focused on the Jackson area.
Alaska’s Unpredictable Beauty
The Filming expedition then shifted to Alaska in mid-April, with a planned ten-day stay on Thompson Pass. However, the unpredictable nature of the Alaskan wilderness extended the shoot to three weeks, ultimately yielding four days of exceptional skiing conditions. Brown described these days as some of the best of his career, boasting deep snowfall and challenging runs that translated into stunning visuals.
The Core of ‘Clean Slate’
The overarching theme of “Clean Slate” revolves around embracing fresh starts-a new season, unexplored territories, and a shifted perspective. This philosophy mirrors Brown’s personal approach to skiing, consistently seeking out pristine, untouched snow. The film is currently being screened at various locations, including ski towns across the Western United States, as part of the Alaska’s Northern Aspects Film Tour, and at Zag Skis events in France and Belgium.Audiences can anticipate a wider online release in early November.
Did You Know? According to the National Ski Areas Association, participation in backcountry skiing has increased by over 30% in the last five years, driven by a desire for less crowded slopes and more adventurous experiences.
Here’s a summary of the film’s key locations and phases:
| Phase | Location | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | western Wyoming | Most of Winter | Scouting and Filming Technical Terrain |
| Phase 2 | Thompson Pass, Alaska | 3 Weeks (planned 10 days) | Capturing Deep Powder and Steep Lines |
Pro Tip: Backcountry skiing requires extensive preparation and knowledge of avalanche safety. Always check the avalanche forecast before heading out and carry essential safety gear, including a beacon, shovel, and probe. Avalanche.org provides valuable resources and data.
What aspects of backcountry skiing appeal most to you – the challenge, the scenery, or the solitude?
Are you planning to watch “Clean slate” at a premiere or wait for the online release?
The Rise of Ski Films and Documentaries
The popularity of ski films, like “Clean Slate,” reflects a growing interest in adventure sports and outdoor lifestyles. These films not only showcase incredible athletic feats but also highlight the beauty and fragility of mountain environments. The ski film industry has evolved substantially, moving from VHS tapes to high-definition digital releases and streaming platforms, reaching a wider audience than ever before. Recent data from Statista shows a 15% year-over-year increase in viewership for online adventure sports content.
Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Clean Slate’
- What is ‘Clean Slate’ about? ‘Clean Slate’ is a short film documenting a skiing expedition through Wyoming and Alaska, focusing on challenging terrain and pristine powder.
- Where is ‘Clean Slate’ being shown? The film is premiering in Western U.S. ski towns, on the Alaska’s Northern Aspects Film Tour, and at Zag Skis events in France and Belgium.
- When will ‘Clean Slate’ be available online? The film is expected to be available for online viewing in early November.
- What makes the skiing in Alaska particularly special? Alaska offers deep snow and steep lines, creating ideal conditions for challenging and visually stunning ski footage.
- Who is Teton Brown? Teton Brown is the filmmaker behind ‘Clean Slate,’ known for capturing action sports in breathtaking locations.
Share your thoughts on this exciting new film and your favorite skiing destinations in the comments below!
What potential risks does Teton Brown face by pursuing “first descent” experiences in Alaska’s backcountry?
Clean Slate: Teton Brown’s Journey from Wyoming to Alaska Pursuing Powder and New Lines
From Jackson hole to the Last Frontier: A shift in Terrain
Teton Brown, a name synonymous with big mountain skiing and a relentless pursuit of untracked powder, made a significant move in 2023, relocating from his long-time base in Jackson Hole, wyoming, to Alaska. This wasn’t a simple relocation; it was a deliberate shift towards a new chapter, driven by a desire for even more challenging terrain, extended winter seasons, and the allure of Alaska’s vast, untouched backcountry. For years, Brown established himself as a leading figure in the Wyoming ski scene, known for his innovative line choices and commitment to pushing the boundaries of freeskiing. The decision to leave Jackson Hole, a mecca for powder hounds, wasn’t taken lightly.
The Allure of Alaskan Backcountry Skiing
Alaska represents the ultimate frontier for backcountry skiing. Several factors drew Brown north:
* Extended Season: Alaska’s winters are notoriously long and deep, offering a substantially longer ski season than many other regions. This extended timeframe allows for more exploration and opportunities to ski challenging lines.
* Vertical Drop & Terrain: The sheer scale of Alaskan mountains is unparalleled. The massive vertical drops and complex terrain present a unique set of challenges for experienced skiers like brown. Think steeper slopes, larger cornices, and more exposure.
* Untracked Potential: While Jackson Hole boasts unbelievable powder, Alaska offers a level of remoteness that translates to a higher probability of finding truly untouched lines. this is a key motivator for skiers constantly seeking the “first descent” experience.
* Heli-Skiing & Access: Alaska’s vastness necessitates alternative access methods. Heli-skiing plays a crucial role in reaching remote zones, opening up possibilities unavailable in more accessible mountain ranges.
Adapting to the Alaskan Environment: Challenges and Preparations
Transitioning to Alaskan backcountry skiing isn’t without its hurdles. Brown faced a steep learning curve adapting to the unique challenges of the environment:
* Weather Patterns: Alaskan weather is notoriously unpredictable and can change rapidly. Understanding and respecting these patterns is paramount for safety. This includes monitoring avalanche forecasts meticulously.
* Glacial Travel: A significant portion of Alaskan ski terrain involves glacial travel, requiring specialized knowledge of crevasse rescue techniques and glacier dynamics. Brown undertook extensive training in these areas.
* Wildlife awareness: Alaska is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears and moose. Maintaining situational awareness and carrying appropriate safety equipment (bear spray) are essential.
* logistical Complexity: Accessing remote Alaskan terrain often requires meticulous planning and logistical support, including coordinating flights, establishing base camps, and managing supplies.
Early Alaskan Projects & notable Lines
As relocating,Brown has been actively exploring and documenting his Alaskan adventures. While details are frequently enough kept close to the vest (a common practice among big mountain skiers protecting their lines), several projects have come to light:
* Chugach State Park Exploration: Brown has spent considerable time exploring the Chugach State Park, a vast wilderness area near Anchorage, known for its incredible ski potential.
* Remote Peninsula Skiing: Reports indicate expeditions to remote peninsulas in Southern Alaska, accessing previously unskied terrain via helicopter.
* Focus on First Descents: Brown’s primary goal remains finding and skiing first descents – lines that have never been skied before. This requires extensive scouting, risk assessment, and technical skill.
Gear & Technology for Alaskan Backcountry Skiing
Brown’s gear selection reflects the demands of the Alaskan environment. Key components include:
* Avalanche Safety gear: transceiver, shovel, probe – non-negotiable for backcountry travel.
* Wide Skis: Designed for deep powder performance.
* Durable Outerwear: Waterproof and windproof layers to withstand harsh conditions.
* Satellite Communication: Devices like Garmin inReach for emergency communication and tracking.
* Lightweight Backpacks: Optimized for carrying essential gear without adding excessive weight.
* High-Resolution Cameras: Capturing the experience is a key part of Brown’s work, requiring high-quality cameras and drones.
The Future: Continued Exploration and Film projects
Teton Brown’s move to Alaska isn’t a one-time event; it’s a long-term commitment to exploring and documenting the region’s incredible ski potential. He is currently working on several film projects aimed at showcasing the beauty and challenges of Alaskan backcountry skiing. Expect to see more groundbreaking footage and inspiring stories emerging from the Last Frontier as Brown continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of freeskiing. the focus remains on lasting exploration and responsible backcountry practices, respecting the Alaskan wilderness for generations to come.