The Introduction to Touring Course for skiers and splitboarders is a day program based out of local ski fields with an experienced local guide. You will get up to speed with the latest safety techniques, use new equipment, and fast-track your skills to be able to undertake your own winter backcountry touring adventures.

Location

Our Introduction to Ski and Splitboard Touring Courses run in either the Cardrona backcountry or the Motutapu Conservation Area adjacent to the Treble Cone ski field. For access through Treble Cone, a lift pass is required.

Introduction to Touring Course Syllabus

Ski or splitboard travel provides the opportunity for travelling far and efficiently to maximise the terrain covered and the objectives achieved. Most importantly looking for and finding good and safe snow to ski and ride.

Topics include:

• Ski and splitboard equipment selection, management, and maintenance. For some pre-reading, check out our article on ski and splitboard touring equipment.
• Uphill and downhill backcountry travel techniques.
• Avalanche awareness.
• Trip planning.
• Emergency procedures.

For those new to backcountry travel, the Introduction to Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Course can be combined with Avalanche Skills Course 1, including an evening theory session and field day, for a full weekend program to get you ready for your own winter adventures.

Alternatively, the three-day Backcountry Ski and Splitboard Touring Course (including the Avalanche Skills Course 1) more comprehensively covers all of these skills and provides further opportunities to develop touring knowledge and experience.

Next Steps

Following the course, participants will be set up to continue to build their touring experience on guided or self-led tours. After consolidating experience, it is possible to undertake an Avalanche Skills Course 2 or Glacier Ski and Splitboard Touring Course to gain further skills in avalanche risk management or safe travel in more challenging glaciated mountain terrain.

Pricing and Dates

Duration: 1 day

2024 Dates:

Group courses: Sunday 7th July: Places available Sunday 14th July: Places available Sunday 21st July August: Places available Sunday 28th July: Places available Sunday 4th August: Places available Courses can be run on any suitable day from July to the end of September subject to demand. Get in touch to express an interest in joining a group tour or arranging a private course.

2024 Price:

Group courses $490 / $360/ $285 per person for 2 / 3 / 4+ Includes: GST, guide fees, compliance costs, transport from Wānaka, and avalanche safety equipment. Excludes: lunch and snacks, personal clothing, touring equipment hire, TC lift pass

If you don’t have a Treble Cone season pass, a backcountry pass can be purchased from the ticket office on the day for $75

Maximum ratio 1:5

See Also