Black Books, Maps & Games

Digital apps are great for route updates and layering topo data, and GaiaGPS Premium offers Trails Illustrated layers and regular updates for navigation. Paper maps like the Niseko Backcountry Map stay useful when batteries die and often fold to portable 11 x 17 sizes for easy packing.

Many backcountry maps are printed on waterproof, durable paper with high-quality aerial photo printing to resist snow and moisture. Foldable construction and regular updates mean 11 x 17 paper maps can handle repeated folding and field use when treated like other gear.

For freeride touring, pick guidebooks that focus on zone-specific route beta and terrain tips, such as the Beacon Guidebooks Backcountry Ski Atlas which includes high-quality photos and route data. These guidebooks prioritize approach information, hazard awareness, and detailed route descriptions over general trail lists.

Enamelware from brands like Three Potato Four is a great basecamp choice—mugs, bowls, and 10-inch enamel plates are lightweight and durable for campfire cooking. The enamel-coated metal construction wipes clean easily and tolerates outdoor knocks better than ceramic.

An 11 x 17 map balances portability with useful topographical detail, making it ideal for a day hike and still practical for planning stages of a multi-day tour. If you need wider coverage or frequent zooming, supplement 11 x 17 sheets with digital maps or multiple adjacent paper maps.