Location
The 3-day practical course is field-based and utilises access through Cardrona, Treble Cone, or The Remarkables ski fields to backcountry touring areas.
Ski and Splitboard Touring Courses
Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Touring Course
Overview
The Backcountry Touring Course for skiers and splitboarders develops the touring and avalanche skills to confidently plan and undertake their own winter day trips or overnight tours. Perfect for those just getting into ski and splitboard touring to learn the latest techniques from NZ-certified mountain and ski guides.
Itinerary
Each day will begin with an morning meeting at the WMG Base in Wanaka before heading up the mountain. Days will usually be wrapped up in town by around 17:00 and evenings will be open to relax and prepare for the next day.
It is also possible to arrange multi-day overnight courses staying in mountain huts or winter camping.
![Wanaka Mountain Guides [] Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Touring Course](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgNzY4IDU3NiIgd2lkdGg9Ijc2OCIgaGVpZ2h0PSI1NzYiIHhtbG5zPSJodHRwOi8vd3d3LnczLm9yZy8yMDAwL3N2ZyI+PC9zdmc+)
The course is practical focused and days will include plenty of skiing and riding as well as instruction and exercises to develop the skills.
The course runs through all weather and at times when it is not possible to be on the mountain, we can supplement with inside theory and planning. Monitoring conditions during bad weather is a great opportunity for developing an understanding of changing backcountry conditions. Planning will mean that you can be in the right place to get safe, fresh tracks when the skies clear.
Touring Skills Progression
The Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Touring Course is one of our foundation ski and split-board touring courses. Check our our Knowledge Base for more advice to plan your training progression.
The MSC Avalanche Skills Course 1 is included in the 3-day Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Touring course.
Syllabus
Topics covered include:
- Ski and splitboard equipment selection, management, and maintenance.
- Uphill and downhill backcountry travel techniques in soft and firm conditions, use of ski crampons or ice axe and boot crampons (if required).
- Backcountry hazard identification and risk management.
- Trip planning including avalanche and terrain analysis and mountain weather forecasting.
- Navigation.
Avalanche awareness and rescue.
Equipment
Participants need to be equipped for winter backcountry travel with ski or splitboard touring equipment.
Avalanche safety equipment can be provided.
If you plan to buy any equipment in preparation for the course, first check out our article on ski and splitboard touring equipment.
Ski touring equipment can be hired from MT Outdoors in Wanaka.
Splitboards can be hired from Wanaka Splitboard Rentals. Contact us with your requirements.
Difficulty & Fitness
Skiing or Riding Ability
Skiers and riders should be intermediate or stronger with some experience off-piste and in different snow conditions to get the most out of the course.
Touring Experieince
No previous ski or splitboard touring experience is required to take part in this course.
Dates & Pricing
Availability
Can't make these dates. Get in touch to arrange group or private courses.
| 11th – 13th July | Places available |
| 18th – 21st July | Places available |
| 25th – 27th July | Places available |
| 1st – 3rd August | FULL |
| 5th – 7th August | Places available |
| 8th – 10th August | 3 places available |
| 15th – 17th August | 3 places available |
| 18th – 20th August | 3 places available |
| 22nd – 24th August | 5 places available |
| 25th – 27th August | Places available |
| 29th – 31st August | Places available |
| 2nd – 4th September | Places available |
| 8th – 11th September | Places available |
| 22nd – 24th September | Places available |
Pricing
Group price: NZ$1090 (Deposit $600)
Inclusions & Exclusions
Includes: GST, NZMGA Certified Guide, transport from Wanaka, avalanche safety equipment.
Excludes: Ski or splitboard touring equipment hire (if required), lunch and snacks, Treble Cone Touring Pass.
A $75 Touring Pass can be purchased from the ski field on any days using lift access.
Testimonials
Excellent course content, well taught and very worth while. Definitely recommend this to anyone interested in backcountry touring.
— Josh, Backcountry Ski and Split board Course
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