An increasing number of skiers and snowboarders are deserting the commercial ski slopes in the Highlands in search of offpiste adventures.
And a local man is about to publish his second guide book providing a list of ability-rated routes and advice on how to enjoy the backcountry as safely as possible.
Keen skier Kenny Biggin, of Spean Bridge in Lochaber, produced his first Scottish offpiste guide book on Nevis Range and Ben Nevis this time last year.
And his next book – Scottish Offpiste Skiing & Snowboarding: Glencoe – is due to be published on November 20.
The 37-year-old, who began his skiing life in the West Highland Ski Club at Glencoe in the late 80s and runs his own company called SkiMountain, explained that his new book was centred around the historic White Corries ski area.
The 230-page publication contains 93 routes and 210 full colour photos and diagrams, together with a completely new section on avalanche and mountain safety and decision making.
Mr Biggin explained that he set about producing the guides because he realised there was a gap in the market following a “huge increase” in the popularity of offpiste skiing in recent years.
He said: “There are lots of good books on climbing, white water kayaking and mountain biking, but there wasn’t anything orientated towards showing people the fantastic offpiste skiing that’s available here.
“However, it is not just a list of graded routes. It is also aimed at helping people to go out and do it safely.”
He added that the area offered some of the best skiing in the UK.
Mr Biggin said: “The guide includes easy freeride routes at Glencoe Mountain Resort, hidden corries and gullies on the famous Buachailles and the Bidean nam Bian massif, as well as some classic days out, such as the prized Black Mount Traverse,” said Mr Biggin.
A special launch event is to be held at Glencoe Mountain Resort on December 6 when there will also be information on avalanche training courses run at the centre.
Resort managing director, Andy Meldrum, said: “This guide is incredibly important because more and more people are leaving the ski area and exploring the backcountry.
“It will help to keep people safe by pointing them in the right direction and providing a lot of good safety advice.”