Backcountry Touring

Backcountry is usually referring to terrain that is accessed without the use of lifts. This means you will need touring equipment to walk up the mountain and then ski/board down.  

As soon we step outside the resort boundaries, we will end up in the world of the backcountry. The main difference with backcountry terrain is that the resort does not maintain or control the conditions to mitigate risk for riders (like avalanches.)  

This is one reason it is highly recommended to always go with a guide who can assess these risks, and choose the safest and most enjoyable terrain for you. This is also the reason why we carry avalanche safety gear when we step outside the resort boundaries.

For backountry, you will need Touring Gear Rental

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND MT. YOTEI AS A BACKCOUNTRY TOUR LOCATION.

Our guided backcountry tour zones are determined based on daily mountain and snow conditions, these factors are then assessed alongside your  experience and goals by our lead guides to identify where is most suitable for your tour. Mt. Yotei is an incredibly technical mountain to operate on and to summit, and requires a number of factors to align to make it a suitable zone to tour.

Additional note:

- Up to 5 guests of similar ability can join the same lesson. 

- If you’re going touring for the first time, our guides will take some extra time to intro the equipment to you, explain the rules of the backcountry and be sure to work with you to choose a tour that is suitable to your level. 

- You will need touring equipment! If you are a skier, you will need to hire touring skis, and if you are a snowboarder you will need to rent a splitboard. 

- The area we visit will depend on the snow conditions and avalanche risks on the day, as well as your goals, ability and fitness level. Ahead of your tour we will be reaching out to gather more information as your guide begins to plan the day! 

- It is worth noting that backcountry touring can often be hot work! Walking uphill often requires you to take a layer off to stop you overheating. It’s recommended to bring some extra layers so you can adjust what you’re wearing throughout the day. 

We will provide an avalanche safety pack that includes a backpack, beacon, shovel, and probe. Along with this, we recommend bringing: 

** Sunglasses (walking in your goggles will fog them up!) 

** Sunscreen 

** One litre of water 

** Energy bars and a small packed lunch 

** Change of neck warmer and gloves 

** Thin gloves for hiking uphill 

** Lightweight hat to hike in 

** Helmet ** A good night of sleep!"

Cancellation Policy:

- Up until 7 days prior, a full refund will be provided for any reason. 

- From 7 days prior until 48 hours prior a 20% cancellation fee will be incurred. 

- Within 48 hours a 100% cancellation fee will occur. 

- No compensation can be made for the loss of lesson time due to injury or illness if the lesson has commenced. 

Upon receipt of a valid medical certificate. A reschedule or refund of future lessons can be made:    

** We must be advised before your new lesson has commenced.    

** We must receive the report within 24 hours of the cancelled lesson.

We reserve the right to cancel any reservations that do not meet our booking terms or have not been paid by the due date.

Operating dates: 

- Touring: 1st Dec - 10 April

- Peak season: 14th Dec - 28th Feb 

** Touring operating dates are subject to the snow conditions and gate status.

SKILL CHART