Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine Winter Clubs feature: Open Mountains Project

This story is part of a feature that first appeared in print in Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine’s December 2021 issue. Read the entire e-edition here:

Revelstoke’s winter clubs are pillars of the community. No matter how you choose to slip, slide or shred on the snow and ice, there’s a group of volunteers and enthusiasts ready to welcome you in.

For our Revelstoke Winter Clubs feature in the December 2021 issue of Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine, we invited local winter sports activity clubs and club-like organizations to share an update on their activities, tell us about what they have planned this season, and let potential new members know how to get involved.

Here is what the Open Mountains Project had to tell us:

2021 Winter Youth Semester exploring Revelstoke Mountain Resort backcountry. Photo: Bruno Long.

Open Mountains Project

Established: 2016

Q: What are the main activities of the Open Mountains Project? 

A: Open Mountains Project is a non-profit society in Revelstoke, B.C. dedicated to fostering inclusive mountain culture. We offer backcountry programs including ski touring, splitboarding, climbing and mountaineering. Our vision is that Revelstoke is a place where everyone can feel and be safe to enjoy all the mountains have to offer in all seasons.

Q: What is new with Open Mountains Project over the past year

A: After four years of offering youth programming, we are shifting focus slightly at Open Mountains to partner with grassroots organizers in the 2SLGBTQ+ youth and adult community after harmful words were shared in a debate about the rainbow crosswalk on Revelstoke’s social media pages.

Our shift in focus is in response, to show up in solidarity with Revelstoke’s queer community and to work for an inclusive mountain culture here in Revelstoke where all are welcome and respected.

Q: What activities or events does Open Mountains Project have planned for the 2021-22 winter season?

A: This winter we will be offering a free backcountry ski and snowboard educational program, including an AST 1 certification for adult and youth (+16) participants who identify as 2SLGBTQ+. Queer, allies and curious are welcome to apply, priority will be given to who hold intersectional identities and can commit to all program dates.

Q: How can potential new members get involved with your club?

A: Registration for the winter program opened on November 17 on www.openmountains.com. We’ll be running a meet and greet and prep evening on December 15 open to queer, allies and curious. Other events and more information can be found on our website or on our IG page @openmountainsproject.