Rediscovering Stoke: A Splitboarding Adventure in the Sierra Nevada

Embarking on outdoor adventures can be transformative at any stage of life. For many, the joy lies not in competition but in the quiet triumph of connecting with nature and oneself. My recent journey into splitboarding reaffirmed this truth, rekindling a passion I feared lost and revealing that adventure is as much about self-discovery as it is about exploration.

Reconnecting with Passion Through Splitboarding

Splitboarding, a hybrid between skiing and snowboarding, offers access to untouched backcountry snow. For me, it became a gateway to rediscovering my enthusiasm for outdoor pursuits. Despite completing an Intro to Backcountry course last winter, I struggled to recapture my excitement. It wasn’t the physical demands or the technical challenges holding me back—it was the pressure I placed on myself to excel. The weight of striving to never be the “weak link” had drained my joy.

One restless night, I realized that this self-imposed burden had overshadowed the simple pleasure of being in nature. Determined to shift my mindset, I planned a solo adventure to Carson Pass near Lake Tahoe, seeking solace in the Sierra Nevada’s serene backcountry.

The author at her backcountry course.

A Journey Through Carson Pass

On a bright February day, I set out with my splitboard, carefully navigating avalanche conditions to ensure safety. The rhythmic sound of my skins gliding over snow accompanied me as I ascended through a landscape blanketed in white. Emerging above the treeline, I was greeted by a dazzling vista: Red Lake Peak standing tall against a cloudless sky, its rocky summit bathed in sunlight.

The climb was slow but rewarding. I paused often, not from exhaustion, but to savor the beauty around me. Reaching the summit, I transitioned my board to ride mode, the act symbolic of leaving behind my doubts. As I carved my first turn down the peak, a surge of elation washed over me. Tears of joy blurred my vision, and a triumphant whoop echoed through the canyon. I had found my stoke, hidden among the junipers and snow-dusted slopes of Carson Range.

The author at Carson Pass.

The True Essence of Stoke

Stoke is more than a fleeting sense of exhilaration—it’s the celebration of self and the joy of participation. It’s about finding beauty in the journey rather than the destination, embracing both our achievements and limitations. The pressure to outperform others or chase accolades fades in the face of the simple satisfaction of connecting with nature and living fully in the moment.

As we age, our physical capabilities may shift, but our ability to find joy remains boundless. Like trees bending under the weight of snow, we learn to adapt rather than break, discovering strength in flexibility and gratitude in life’s seasons.


Lessons from the Backcountry

  • Let Go of Expectations: Release the pressure to be the best. True fulfillment comes from appreciating the experience, not achieving perfection.
  • Prioritize Safety: Always research conditions, carry essential gear, and practice avalanche awareness when exploring the backcountry.
  • Find Your Own Pace: Whether it’s a leisurely climb or a challenging descent, honor your limits and celebrate progress.
  • Reconnect with Nature: The mountains offer more than adventure—they provide clarity, peace, and perspective.

Honoring the Journey

My splitboarding adventure reminded me that the essence of stoke lies in the small victories: the crisp mountain air, the glittering snow, and the quiet moments of reflection. These experiences transcend skill level or age, serving as powerful reminders of our connection to the natural world.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the backcountry, embracing the journey with gratitude and curiosity will reveal the true value of outdoor pursuits. Stoke isn’t something you chase; it’s something you find when you let go and immerse yourself in the moment.


So the next time you step into the mountains, remember: it’s not about being the fastest, the strongest, or the best. It’s about being present, finding joy in the process, and letting the beauty of the journey inspire you.

Discovering stoke is a lifelong adventure, and the mountains are always there, ready to welcome you back.

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