Alpine ski and snowboard touring is known by a few different names such as backcountry touring, backcountry skiing, ski hiking (europe), randonnee skiing, ski mountaineering, alpine touring, and telemarking. 

No matter what you call it, backcountry skiing is a very rewarding experience that will connect you with the natural world in an incredibly profound way. Not to mention, acres of untracked powder, high alpine bowls, and steep (and deep) glades are yours for the taking.

To be enjoyed to the fullest, guests must be of intermediate skiing ability or better, in good physical condition, and capable of handling the challenges of ascending and descending in a variety of snow conditions.

You must supply your own ski or snowboard touring (skis/board, skins, poles, boots) and safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, probe, shovel), but we can help you to arrange rental equipment on request. Please make sure that your equipment fits, works and is in good condition before arriving at the lodge. Don't forget spare batteries for your avalanche transceiver.

We offer two options to our backcountry skiing guests:

1. Self-Guided (included in package price)

For those guests who are strong skiers with previous backcountry touring experience, self-guided ski touring is an option. Backcountry skiing is not without risk. We strongly recommend that self-guided parties have knowledge and experience in backcountry travel and avalanche safety. All self-guided parties will be responsible for self-rescue.

2. Guided

We work with the Whistler Alpine Guides Bureau to provide certified A.C.M.G. guiding (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides), and would be happy to coordinate their services on your behalf. These guides have an intimate knowledge of both the terrain and the snowpack so hiring a guide ensures that your group gets the safest and most enjoyable ski experience possible. They know the best travel routes and the best places to ski in all weather and snow conditions.

These professional and friendly guides will help you to learn more about the area, the backcountry experience, and avalanche safety. They'll even give you a few pointers on ski technique if you so desire.

And because you've hired a private guide, you can be assured that your group will travel at its own pace and go to the ski areas that best fit with your group's objectives and ability level.

The price to hire a private A.C.M.G. guide ranges from $399.00 - $829.00 per day ( not including the 6% G.S.T. or gratuities), depending on the size of the group and the length of the trip. The use of avalanche transceivers, probes and shovels is included in the guides rate. Please click here for more detailed pricing information.

Personal Responsibility and Release of Liability

Backcountry skiing is not without risk. Reliable prediction of factors such as weather, snow and terrain conditions is impossible. All guests going ski touring will be required to read and sign a comprehensive self-guided Release of Liability or Waiver of Claims agreement.

READ MORE >