What is ski touring?
Ski touring is nothing new. Skis were used as a form of transport before lift systems were invented. With modern technology, skis are far less used for transport and more for recreation, fitness and for those seeking the holy grail of wintersports.
Previously conceived as a more 'hard-core' approach to skiing, ski touring (or ski de randonnée, ski mountaineering or back-country skiing) has recently taken off in the Alps. Ski touring involves 'skinning' your way up the mountains, using ski touring equipment rather than traditional alpine ski equipment. Some routes in the Alps will be maintained, groomed and patrolled but a lot of ski touring is off-piste so at your own risk.
Where can I try ski touring?
As ski touring has increased in popularity, Isère has made it more accessible and safe throughout the resort with 33 signed and secured routes with markings and information in different ski areas as a trial for this winter 21/22. These resorts include Alpe d'Huez, Vaujany, Les 7 Laux, Les 2 Alpes, Chamrousse, Villard de Lans and Oz en Oisans.
Les Deux Alpes offers a freeride/off-piste training course for experienced skiers, aged 15 and above. They share their technical knowledge and safety advice to have fun in complete safety. The ESF offers a weekly package where you will be part of a group of 4 to 8 people. Skiers and snowboarders can take part and you can book this activity direct.
See below for more recommended resorts...
Credit - Nacho Grez
Credit - P Augier
Where should I start?
We recommend beginning with day tours to get to grips with the varying snow conditions and skills required. Our advice would be to head out on your first few trips with a guide to learn about the essentials and mountain safety including what to do in a case of an avalanche. It is key to note that ski touring is not a recommended activity to do alone, regardless of how experienced you are.
What equipment do I need?
It is really important to have the right equipment for this activity to ensure your comfort and safety. Thankfully, most equipment these days is nice and lightweight. You will need the following:
- Touring skis, boots and bindings - touring skis are much lighter than ordinary skis and narrower to help with the longer distances and special bindings allow the heel to come out to allow uphill movement. The boots are thankfully lighter than alpine ski boots too.
- Touring skins - these attach to the underside of the skis which allow you to climb uphill with grip.
- Ski poles - touring poles are adjustable for skinning and descending.
- Helmet.
- Backpack - to keep belongings in but also for additional safety equipment such as ropes, harnesses, ice screws, avalanche equipment, basic first aid kit, water, energy snacks, additional clothing.
- Fully charged mobile phone and an additional charging pack.
How physically prepared do I need to be?
Ski touring is a physically demanding activity but a great workout! You need to be fairly fit, you will be spending most of your time travelling uphill. But you will be rewarded when you get to experience first tracks through untouched powder in pristine landscapes on the way back down. That, of course, is the appeal. A place of sanctuary away from the crowds.
It is recommended that you can ski red slopes competently and perhaps have some off-piste experience before you approach ski touring as conditions can be tough at times.
Remember not to overdo it if you are a beginner, start with a short route and build up the difficulty in accordance with your fitness level. Ski touring encounters all different types of snow from fluffy powder to icy conditions, so it's important that you have experience in all conditions to stay safe.
Credit - P Augier
Credit P Tournaire
Other Peak Retreats resorts to consider for ski touring (although you can practise this in any resort):
Arêches Beaufort - locally Arêches-Beaufort has a big reputation for ski touring – it hosts the hardcore four-day ‘Pierra Menta‘ ski touring event. Arêches-Beaufort offers four permanent routes (blue, red, black, 'nocturne' all a couple of km each) dedicated solely to ski touring in the ski area. The 'Traces' allow for warming up and access to the top of the ski area at 2320m by walking outside the flows of alpine skiing. It is then possible to continue with classic hikes to conquer summits such as the Grand-Mont, a crossing point for the mythical Pierra Menta.
La Rosière - has 3 permanent trails. They offer 'Touring Tuesdays' in the resort. Once the slopes have closed for the day, the resort’s qualified instructors will teach you the different techniques of this discipline: how to attach the “skins” to your skis, the switchback technique to help you climb, safety tips, etc. A two-hour introduction, which includes a Savoyard snack plus rental equipment. Book direct with your chosen ski school.
Le Grand Bornand - there are 5 itineraries in Le Grand Bornand. For beginners, there is a signposted route and is a perfect option for anyone who has never ski-toured before, starting at Chinaillon at the bottom of the Chatelet chairlift. Passing by the Lac de la Cour you will then climb to the top of the Almet chairlift where you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the Aravis mountain range.
Chamonix - has a reputation as one of the mountaineering centres of the world! The most famous area for touring is the glacier which runs through La Vallée Blanche from the top of the Aiguille du Midi tramcar, up near the famous Mont Blanc. There are various in-bound (on piste) trails as well as endless off-piste potential.
Taking La Vallée Blanche, the iconic trip of the French Alps, you don’t actually need skins to get down (one of our directors has successfully done it!). You descend from the top of the Aiguille du Midi tramcar and make your way from there. The route is absolutely breathtaking, with Mont Blanc providing the perfect backdrop to the ‘White Valley’ which has been carved out over 100's of years by the glacier. There are a number of options around the Vallée Blanche to pop the skins on and tour further off into the Alps.
If you want something less crazy but near Chamonix, Combloux is a lovely family-friendly resort (30 minute drive away) where you will find less steep short ski tours and hikes. It's a great choice in fresh snow or bad weather as the trees give you good visibility (and some shelter!).
Sainte Foy - among the peaks and valleys of Mercuel, Le Clou and Le Monal, set out from the resort you can climb at your own pace through the silence of the forest along one of the three marked taster routes with a gradual ascent of 150-700m, then ski back down in safety down the pisted ski slopes.
The ESF (French Ski School) organise ski touring lessons and excursions in all our resorts. Some resorts offer a free initiation morning. More information can be found on each resort’s tourist office website.
Credit - Stephane Cevoz (Areches Beaufort)
Credit - TO (La Rosiere)
Credit - TO (Chamonix, La Vallee Blanche)