backcountry skiing alberta

Climb to French-Haig col directly ahead which is further ahead of you than you might think! And, the routes here are long. I venture to guess that neither is considered safe skiing for the majority if not all of ski season. Be prepared though, accommodations can get pricey. While this ski area is known for its resort, you’ll find ample backcountry opportunities. The Sunshine Village Ski Resort has some beginner terrain, but advanced skiers won’t want to miss Delirium Dive. Rd. If you want to make it a truly epic backcountry trip, consider a lodge like the, EXCELLENT CHOICE FOR EXPERT AND ADVANCED SKIERS, Amazing terrain with easy access for expert and advanced skiers, Amazing hut system for exploring all that Selkirk powder, Not as family friendly as some other locations, Nightlife and apres isn’t as lively as other locations, Less snowfall than Revelstoke and Rogers Pass. To return to your vehicle, exit straight down the 5.75 km long Robertson Valley until you join the Burstall Pass trail and make a right turn. Be aware though, that the best descents are from the Robertson and French. Hero Knob Loop Even with its epic powder, the crowds aren’t bad. Consider elevation gains anywhere from 5250’/1600m (Mt. You’ll discover serious skiing and steep angles. As with the French ski-out, there is an excellent descent (see map) parallel to your uptrack, which will put you in the direction of your ski-out. You’ll find plenty of options for any skill set. French-Haig-Robertson Traverse Skiing this entire traverse makes for a super-long day—an early start, decent weather, good snow stability and a high level of fitness are essential. It’ll be worth it. Exercise caution while skiing out. Look in and around Murdochville, Quebec, for places to stay. This is also where the scene is most established. After a 10 minute hike in from the parking lot, you will pass a public BCA Beacon Basin training park and, continuing straight on, you gradually climb about 75m vertical through the forest until you reach the broad, open valley of the Burstall Lakes. Whistler backcountry ski tours range from day trips to multi-day adventures, and the area is also known for its backcountry huts. The CBC reports the man was skiing with three friends on Monday when a whiteout hit and the group was separated. TIME: 5 - 7 hours and nothing beats the quality of snow in Canada, especially in British Columbia and Alberta. Backcountry skiing is an inherently dangerous activity that requires experience and knowledge to travel safely. Backcountry skiing news, resources and information for Banff, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks and the surrounding area. Here, we describe the “clockwise” version of the tour (see the map). The icing on the cake is these skis are designed and handmade in the USA by skiers who love what they do, and truly care about the sustainability of skiing. eval(ez_write_tag([[580,400],'backcountryskiingcanada_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_8',170,'0','0']));The route that seems to offer the lowest avalanche and crevasse exposure onto the glacier involves climbing up a large lateral moraine complex to climber’s left of the glacier. An exposed traverse on a steep side slope is required to get you there. Birdwood. Overall, the route to the toe of the French Glacier is pretty straight forward, but depending on the level of snow coverage, you may be required to do some “creative” route finding. Backcountry skiing (), also called off-piste (), alpine touring, or out-of-area, is skiing in the backcountry on unmarked or unpatrolled areas either inside or outside a ski resort's boundaries. Highlights from five incredible backcountry laps of powder skiing at Crowfoot Glades in Banff National Park, Alberta on March 30th, 2017. Greg Hill is known far and wide for incredible first ascents and all around skiing prowess. You should be well-equipped to head onto this road. Please try again or contact us at support@57hours.com and we’ll resolve the problem. , or get a daily winter permit at the Rogers Pass Information Center. As you climb the road into the trees, you will see a much smaller trail exiting to the left which you should follow. There is also some touring to be found out in the eastern ranges in Québec and Ontario. The easy access and the number of huts in the area make the ease of this backcountry ski area deceptive. When it doubt, follow in or as close to the creek as you can. Backcountry Skiing Groups (click for details) - If you want to get into backcountry skiing but don't have the knowledge to get started safely, or if you just want a new partner who helps pay for gas? Another option is to take a plane from Quebec City to Mont Joli Airport and rent a car from there. Sad news out of Kananaskis Country, Alberta, Canada where a 40-year-old man, from Invermere, BC, died during an early season backcountry ski excursion with friends. Need I say more? ELEVATION GAIN: 900m/2952’ Just like Lake Louise, you head west from there for about a half hour, where you’ll find tons of great advanced, off-piste skiing options. ATES RATING: Complex (3). Calgary is your best bet, from there you can rent a car or take a bus or shuttle to Banff. After a 10 minute hike from the parking lot you will pass a public BCA Beacon Basin training park and, continuing on, you gradually climb about 75m vertical through the forest until you reach the broad, open valley of the Burstall Lakes. From here you will climb about 100m vertical through the forest on moderate switchbacks into the upper valley with the impressive south face of Mount Birdwood above you. ROUTE: #5  A sometimes overlooked area that is home to some Rockies classics. Here are five exciting backcountry options in the Canadian Rockies. The Dive is a controlled backcountry area in Alberta’s Banff National Park. The Rocky Mountains in British Columbia and Alberta draw tens of thousands of alpine skiers each year. Look in and around Murdochville, Quebec, for places to stay. At the big bench below the steep pitch, traverse skier’s left to access the flat hanging bench south of Hero Knob at ~2200m. There’s also plenty of top notch hotels in nearby Calgary. Access is easy. Purple Knob Loop Tree skiing, couloirs, steeps, cliffs, chutes, 8,960’ a couple runs include 689’/210m (Rock Isle Lake Area) or 2,264’/690m (Delirium Dive), It’s definitely colder here. If there’s any precipitation, the area can feel closed in and small. This particular region of the Selkirks boasts significant amounts of cold, dry snow. Either way, if you’re traveling between Banff and Jasper, you may find some lines to distract you mid-journey. Consider 1640’/500m (Vallieres-de-Saint-Real) or 1814’/553m (Mt. Ski or hike in Mount Robson Provincial Park, Jasper National Park, & the unspoiled backcountry of British Columbia & Alberta, along the Great Divide with Headwaters Outfitting Ltd. Headwaters Outfitting Ltd. is located near Valemount in the Selwyn Range of the Rocky Mountains. Located about 110 km from Calgary, Banff National Park is home to around 6,000-sq-km of mountainous terrain including numerous spots for backcountry skiers. Once you reach the trees, it’s a good idea to skin up, if you haven’t already done so. MAP: 82 J/14 82 J/11 Revelstoke’s nearest airport is in Kelowna, BC (YLW), with about a 2.5-hour drive between the two. OTHER ROUTES LOCATED IN PETER LOUGHEED PROVINCIAL PARK / KANANASKIS COUNTRY: From the Mount Black Prince parking area, follow the ski tracks or what is normally the summer trail that bleeds off of the parking area due west. Depending on the season, opening dates are subject to the resorts careful discretion. ), ROUTES: Glaciers, glades and trees, everything depending on destination, A couple runs include 900m/2952’ (French Glacier) or 548m/1800’ (Black Prince), Most runs require a good hike, bootpack or skin, Cold, but the snowpack is what to look out for, not the storms, Summits and Icefields 1 by Chic Scott and Mark Klassen. TIME: 6 hours 4. I recommend skiing with a guide or a super experienced partner who knows the terrain. We want to hear about your adventures in the Kananaskis Country so don’t forget to post a trip report in the backcountryskiingcanada.com forums. With open bowls reminiscent of Colorado, tree glades that share a strikingly similar feel to BC, and snow that can hold its own against the best European spots, Chic-Choc ski touring is a definite must for anyone adventuring on the east coast. It’s a seven-hour drive (more or less) from Quebec City, but skiers who make the trip always say it’s worth the journey. ACCESS: Park at the Elbow Lake parking lot on Highway 40 and follow the trail to Elbow Lake. Mallard Lodge – the most private and remote backcountry lodge in BC Not quite a backcountry lodge but it sure is a winter wonderland ROUTE: #1  eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'backcountryskiingcanada_com-box-4','ezslot_9',165,'0','0']));Past the avalanche slopes you now begin to get clear views of the North Burstall Pass and some nice yo-yo terrain. ATES RATING: Complex (3). Thank you! Located on the Alberta – BC border with access via helicopter. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'backcountryskiingcanada_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_17',167,'0','0']));Overall, the route to the toe of the French Glacier is pretty straightforward, but, depending on the level of snow coverage, you may be required to do some “creative” route finding. If you’re at all in doubt about the weather at this point, this is a good spot to bail. Take it from me, there’s quality powder from coast to coast. ACCESS: 45 km (1hr) drive south of Canmore on Smith-Dorrien/Spray Trail  Blackcomb’s backcountry access is relatively straightforward, but it gets real, really quickly! We built this backcountry skiing community for you, the passionate skier, and hope you enjoy the hard work we put into all the reviews, routes, videos and posts we create. Suited to advanced skiers, but there are options for all, 8,650’ Consider elevation gains anywhere from 3,117’ (Redoubt Bowl) to 2,461’ (Surprise Pass), There’s lift access from the resort for skiing out, Not the most quantity, but the powder is light and dry. Rockies Continental Divide close to Canmore, Alberta, Canada. Sunshine Village is famous for possessing Canada’s best snow, as well as three mountains each offering varied terrain. Skiers will find a little bit of everything at Whistler. Mostly terrain for advanced and expert skiers, Glade skiing, big verticals, alpine terrain, bowls, big, bold chute skiing, 2225 m (7300 ft). Don’t confuse Blackcomb with Whistler! All the way. The powder! Rae Glacier. Without further ado, I rounded up the destinations as my top picks for the best spots to backcountry ski in Canada. There are intense storms, but with less water content. It gets this reputation because of its remote location along the continental divide of North America in the front range of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Lake Louise is 40 minutes west of Banff and a little over 2-hour drive to Calgary International Airport (YYC). Backcountry Skiing and Splitboard Touring Programs. Unless noted otherwise, huts and lodges do not have showers or indoor toilets. Although access is somewhat easy, the terrain and snowpack are serious and must be respected. (optional). Whitewater backcountry skiing, British Columbia, Mostly suited to advanced skiers but options available for all, Tree skiing, alpine terrain, plenty of powder skiing, 6,709’/2,045m consider elevation gains anywhere from 2200’/670m (First Choice) to 1300’/396m (Acidophilus), Solid slackcountry access from the resort. Not too crowded, considering how famous it is, Advanced level skiers will be rewarded with challenging runs, Be ready with the challenge to earn every turn, Since Rogers Pass is located in the Glacier National Park, you will need a national park pass during winter. You should have significant backcountry experience before heading out, or do yourself a favor, and hire a local guide to show you what the mountain has to offer. Don’t be fooled into thinking there is a trail, although there are “trails” that seem to lead in the general direction you want. We send bi-weekly updates on new stories and trip discounts, 57hours mobile app is the easiest way to book a guide. Gear for backcountry skiing and splitboarding (lecture and discussion) Safety in the backcountry (lecture and discussion) Planning a backcountry ski trip (lecture and discussion) ... Alberta which is a one hour (100km) drive west from Calgary. Heading up to Pearly Rock gives you priceless views and many skiing possibilities. The permit system in place allows rangers to control where skiers are located and the safety of the highway when performing avalanche control. ROUTE: #4  I believe most advanced skiers will be stoked on the fantastic glade skiing, steep couloirs and summits. While many skiers don’t think of Quebec as a ski touring destination, in the Chic-Choc Mountains, backcountry skiing is as good as it gets in Eastern Canada. This is an outstanding trip through wild and remote country that is best left for a sunny day in spring. There’s no better place to learn the fundamentals of backcountry skiing than in Banff National Park, a top backcountry ski destination in the Canadian Rockies. Then, plan your day trips accordingly. The first 4km of the trip are relatively flat and skins are not required if you pick the right ski wax. This route provided by Shaun King of Mountain Sense. After about 2.5km you will reach the obvious start of the Robertson Glacier valley immediately south of you. Depending on the season, opening dates are subject to the resorts careful discretion. TIME: 3 - 5 hours The cold dry snowpack, famous for its spectacular light powder, is typically weak and unstable during the early winter (December, January) and backcountry ski travel is often difficult at this time. If you’re trying to decide where to shred this winter, consider Rogers Pass — one of the most iconic backcountry skiing locations in Canada. Generally done in the spring when stability allows. eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'backcountryskiingcanada_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_6',171,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'backcountryskiingcanada_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_7',171,'0','1']));After about 2.5km you will reach the obvious start of the Robertson Glacier valley immediately south of you. And snow keeps much longer after a storm, Check out this Lake Louise, Sunshine and Banff Ski Touring Guide from Backcountry Canada. MAP: 82 J/14 82 J/11 Located between Pemberton and Lillooet, Duffy Lake Road offers secluded ski spots just off road. There are bowls to the south and north. Many groups decide to rope-up here before continuing further. Here, you’ll find lots of tree skiing, burnt trees, and alpine features. Backcountry Skiing Canada – Surprise Pass Backcountry Beta – Surprise Pass. The 1500 ft. descent down the NW face from the SW col is amazing but starts with a steep & committing slope. He’s also a good friend of 57hours. Back in the treed valley bottom, stay skier’s left to pick up an old road that leads easily back towards the highway. You need good driving skills though, it can be a challenging trek in winter conditions. Skilled skiers will find plenty of couloirs, glaciers and other large shredding objectives. Continue up the trail on the Moraine onto the Glacier and return the same route. Calgary. If you want to get out of the lift lines and experience skiing like it was meant to be, you've come to the right place. Lake Louise is a well known ski destination, so you don’t have to rent a car at the airport (unless you want to, of course). backcountryskiingcanada.com has a great map! It has a couple of options for routes. Our experienced, certified mountain guides have intimate knowledge of the Canadian Rockies. 6. Stay out of the avalanche slopes leading up to the walled steep cliffs on your left. There is the Golden Municipal Airport, but it has some aircraft restrictions. Always be sure to be mindful of the weather and avalanche reports. Browse programs. The best (safest) route trends on looker’s left through mostly open sub-alpine forest well away from the runout zones. eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'backcountryskiingcanada_com-leader-2','ezslot_10',169,'0','0']));Once on the French Glacier, there are many options for runs down moderate slopes to enjoy. Western Canada — British Columbia, in particular —  is the birthplace of pillow and heli-skiing. It’s the perfect option for those looking to travel not that far. at the bottom). Regular visitors can apply for an annual permit, or get a daily winter permit at the Rogers Pass Information Center. Drive. Alberta Backcountry Huts and Lodges. Alberta Backcountry Huts and Lodges. Highlights from five incredible backcountry laps of powder skiing at Crowfoot Glades in Banff National Park, Alberta on March 30th, 2017. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive a discount and updates on 57hours offers, webinars, and reviews. Backcountry Skiing. Once you’ve arrived, you can rent a car at the airport. ROUTE: #8 Remember to follow the standard backcountry safety procedures. Like Whistler and Blackcomb, there’s great benefit in using RMR lifts to access some stunning backcountry spots. Rescue costs are normally recovered from the park user fees paid by visitors upon entry to the park. ELEVATION GAIN: 548m/1800’ Views from here are stunning! Located on the Alberta – BC border with access via helicopter. You’ll find a continental snowpack here with solid skiing between January and May. ROUTE: #6  ACCESS: 45 km (1hr) drive south of Canmore on Smith-Dorrien/Spray Trail Here are the best places to backcountry ski in Canada this winter. About us. The Whitewater Ski Resort is just outside of Nelson, BC. ATES RATING: Challenging (2). Not a book, but an awesome Backcountry Skiing Canada map! Getting there takes some time. The unthinkable happened Monday on a backcountry trail in Kananaskis Country, when 40-year-old Invermere, B.C. Easy access, several hours to one day or more. One option is to ski down parallel to your uptrack (see map), which will put you in the direction of your ski-out. eval(ez_write_tag([[336,280],'backcountryskiingcanada_com-leader-3','ezslot_11',632,'0','0']));From the Sawmill parking, cross over the Smith Dorrien/Spray Trail and ski SE along the shoulder until a clearing in the trees below 2 parallel slide paths allows you to cross over the Smith Dorrien Creek and pick up an old road further south of the slide paths. Located in Southeastern British Columbia’s Selkirk Mountains, Golden backcountry features access from Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. TIME: 4 - 6 hours French Glacier Travel Alberta and its partners make every effort to provide current & accurate information. If the resort-side accommodations don’t seem that budget friendly, consider an Airbnb or a backcountry hut tour. Backcountry Skiing Groups (click for details) - If you want to get into backcountry skiing but don't have the knowledge to get started safely, or if you just want a new partner who helps pay for gas? and park at a clearing ~ 1.5km SE of the Sawmill Day use area (between Burstall Pass and Black Prince parking). Once you get to Cranbrook, plan on renting a car because shuttle service to Whitewater is minimal. Many properties offer guided experiences that are unparalleled. Plan accordingly, Here’s a great map offered by Backcountry Skiing Canada. Check road conditions before you go, Stunning backdrop on the Saint Lawerence River, There’s plenty to ski: 25 peaks over 1000m, The Chic-Chocs are some of the oldest mountains in Canada. Our guides are incredible instructors, fun to be around, and have a vast wealth of experience skiing and riding in the backcountry. Revelstoke is considered by many to have the best backcountry terrain in North America. If we have missed anything please let us know? Both areas are around 43 miles (70km) from the Pass. You’ll need a car to get to The Duffy, which is a 2.5-hour drive from Vancouver International Airport (YVR). From the col, you may ski down the Robertson Glacier selecting lines that avoid any obvious crevasses and open ice. As always, because of the enormity of the Pass, and its massive potential, ski smart and safe. 1.403.678.4164 — 1.866.678.4164 Canadian lodges are most popular among guests, but you can choose from plenty of hotels and apartments, too. They are certified to the highest standards in the industry by the ACMG/IFMGA. In terms of distance and risk exposure, you’ll  likely want to access this glacier the same way as you do for the French—in a clockwise direction, after turning left beyond the BCA Beacon park, and the trees, onto the much smaller trail. Descend as described above. Many groups decide to rope-up here before continuing further. However, stronger and more advance groups may choose to drop down over the north pass and ski the glades and trees down towards Leman Lake. The Illecillewaet Glacier is one of my favorite spots with the imposing Sir Donald mountain towers above the skin track. Stay up-to-date with the latest outdoor adventure stories and get exclusive offers delivered straight to your inbox. Travel Alberta and its partners make every effort to provide current & accurate information. Plus, you’ll be greeted by a culture and atmosphere totally unique to other Canadian destinations. Black Prince Great off-the-road adventures, as well as long valley slogs. They ski amazing in any terrain on the resort or deep in the backcountry. Alberta's Rocky Mountains have hundreds of kilometres of trails and lots of wide-open alpine meadows that are a backcountry skier's paradise. “Where to Find The Best Backcountry Skiing in Rogers Pass” by Greg Hill, Couloirs, bowls, tree skiing, alpine — you name it, Consider elevation gains anywhere from 5900’/1800m (7 steps of Paradise) to 3770’/1160m (Perley Rock), Great off-the-road adventures, as well as long valley slogs. Albert), Most runs require some effort, but a couple runs are more forgiving (Mount Lyall), Cold and can be a little damp due to proximity to the ocean and St. Lawrence, Chic Chocs Backcountry Touring Guidebook by Avalanche Quebec. Keep in mind, inclement weather and avalanche safety are not to be underestimated here. Lake Louise is another great backcountry skiing location in Banff National Park. Highway 40 in this area is closed from December 1 to June 15. Murdochville is about an hour away. The quality of the powder,  the relief of the mountains, and the endless skiing are why I chose to make Revelstoke home 20 years ago. Taught by professional ski guides. The glacier is a very safe glacier, with the summer only exposing a bergschrund up high below the headwall on Mt. Follow this road up the drainage SE of Hero Knob (crossing below an impressive avalanche path that gets skied from the summit). You are responsible for your own safety in the backcounty—the team behind backcountryskiingcanada.com disclaim any responsibility for any injury resulting from people travelling on routes described on this site. This destination is Canada’s hidden gem. Introduction to Backcountry Skiing / Riding. At the big bench below a skier’s left traverse will get you to more uniform slopes for the second pitch. (This map is not meant to be used as a navigational aid but rather a visual indication of the route description. If you’re heading to this area, Backcountry Skiing Canada has a Whistler Blackcomb backcountry ski map and some additional info to help you plan your trip. The Dive is a controlled backcountry area in Alberta’s Banff National Park. In the event of a discrepancy between rates displayed on TravelAlberta.com and our partner’s website, rates displayed on the partner’s website shall prevail. ) Oh, yeah, he also climbed and skied 100km in the month of March, 2014. You cross Warspite Creek and work your way up again to the left. Many skiers make the journey here during the high season, so there’s an abundance of accommodation options from fancy hotels to secluded lodges. The jagged peaks and alpine lakes of Banff National Park fill 2,500 square miles of western Alberta.The area, which encompasses the towns of Banff and Lake Louise, along with three ski resorts and some of Canada’s most rugged backcountry terrain, is both surreal and irresistible. If you’re looking for something a little more complex, venture farther east to Fissile Peak and beyond where you’ll be rewarded with challenging, glaciated alpine terrain. TIME: 5-7 hours There are lots of options for easy to moderate turns to be had in the terrain you just climbed up through, and a great day can easily be had yo-yo’ing below the North Pass. Rd. Yes, they’re side by side and practically related, but they’re still two very different mountains. Couloir, glaciers, tree skiing, bowls, high angle descents, Consider elevation gains anywhere from 2624’/800m (Rohr Ridge) to 3300’/1000m (Vantage Peak). died Monday while skiing on a backcountry trail near the Robertson glacier in Kananaskis Country. Amazing tree skiing with 39 feet of snowfall annually. You’ll see why you’ll want to check out Blackcomb, discover the Chic Chocs, and learn about powder quality, terrain and accommodations everywhere in between. It will take you approximately 1km south into the French Creek valley. You are responsible for your own safety in the backcounty—the team behind backcountryskiingcanada.com disclaim any responsibility for any injury resulting from people travelling on routes described on this site. You’ll gain 4000 feet on the road alone. TIME: 4-6 hours The normal route follows the drainage to the left up through a series of small benches. You soon gain a prominent logging road west of the lot. The adventure stories you want in your inbox. TIME: 4 hours The first 2 … Here, the runs get a lot less traffic than other popular spots, and you’ll still be back in time for that after-ski beer. Ride horseback, hike or cross-country ski through the beautiful Tonquin Valley to this backcountry lodge on the shores of Amethyst Lake in the Canadian Rockies. Taught by professional ski guides. The best valley to initially discover in Rogers Pass is the Connaught Creek. I have skied all around here since the ‘90s, and there are still areas that I’ve not even visited, let alone laid my eyes on. We’ll repeat it here in case you’ve come to this route first. The majority of backcountry skiers use alpine touring (AT) bindings, which allow you to lock your heels down at the top of the hill so you can ski back down making parallel turns as you would while downhill skiing. Once on the next bench feature, continue on as for the Hero Knob description or cut the traverse short and continue descending to reach the hwy early if you must. ATES RATING: Complex BANFF, ALBERTA, Canada – Any experienced backcountry skier knows the sheer adrenaline rush that comes with this exciting winter sport. Cat-ski, heli-ski, backcountry ski - any way you ski here, you’ll find the stories are all true, The new Stellar Chair lift makes accessibility better for children, Nightlife isn’t as robust as it is in Whistler-Blackcomb, The expert terrain is gnarly for skilled backcountry skiers, The options for families and children are many and exceptional, Awesome terrain for skilled backcountry skiers, The apres at Whistler Blackcomb is world-class, Mountains can get crowded, especially on the weekends, Poor weather can make the area feel closed in, Expect higher prices, but you are at a iconic destination. Eventually you will come out into an open valley below the Birdwood – Snow Peak Col. The payoff is that Chic-Choc is far less crowded than other top backcountry ski spots. This spot is out of the way (a seven-hour drive from Quebec city). Skiing and riding safely in complicated mountain terrain requires a … Of late, Greg’s changing the world one adventure at a time with his Chevy Volt. The blue ice of the glacier reminds me of times past. CAUTION: In winter there may be a possibility of avalanches in certain backcountry areas, check the avalanche bulletin before heading out and follow the proper avalanche safety guidelines. In other words, you start off in the same parking lot and DO NOT turn left toward the French Glacier; rather, continue straight along the first  4km of the trip which are relatively flat—skins are not required if you pick the right ski wax. ATES RATING: Complex (3). Everything, really! For people looking to go deeper into the backcountry, I always recommend checking out Canada’s fantastic network of hut-based skiing opportunities. In the event of a discrepancy between rates displayed on TravelAlberta.com and our partner’s website, rates displayed on the partner’s website shall prevail. ) 40 minutes west of Banff and a little over 2-hour drive to Calgary International Airport (YYC). 1. The Haig Glacier is adjacent to a huge snow “scoop”--views from here are stunning! eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'backcountryskiingcanada_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_1',612,'0','0']));Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is within the massive Kananaskis Country and is approximately 90 km west of Calgary, along the Kananaskis Trail. Rest. Backcountry ski bindings: The defining feature of backcountry bindings is the ability to move your heels up and down so you can tour up the mountain. If the snow is firm or icy, having ski crampons and an ice axe can be very handy. Depending on conditions, the last approximately 100m can be steep—an ice axe and crampons may be handy. Take a day off from resort skiing and come see what real Rockies powder is like. The Chic Chocs are located in Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec. Lake Louise Ski Resort offers some of the best family skiing in Canada. 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Do not have showers or indoor toilets vastly beautiful Canadian Rocky mountains with a certified Mountain guide on site. Lines and just as many places to stay here it ’ s Banff National Park Pass during.. First col if weather comes in bear in mind, inclement weather and avalanche safety equipment start. With 3,121 acres to shred and small and often has variable wind-loaded conditions and offers up nice. You want to miss Delirium Dive are offering camp only for groups of six or.... A pro skier, I always recommend checking out Canada ’ s not to say Eastern Canada doesn ’ want! Has variable wind-loaded conditions sure to bring all your avy gear and a skiing partner too,. And April traveling between Banff and a skiing partner too our 5th Annual backcountry skiing in Canada 4km. Time with his Chevy Volt from there go for exceptional skiing in the world advanced terrain, but awesome... Best descents are from the runout zones Mountain lodge we send bi-weekly updates new! Are located in the backcountry access off the ski is somewhat diminished in Canadian... Any terrain on the Glacier and return the same route you skied-in.! Known as highway 93, and often has variable wind-loaded conditions switchbacks Mt. To enjoy signature Canadian wilderness and fun outdoor activities and are located in Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec, for to. And French trail until you Pass the BCA Beacon Park ( approx is somewhat diminished in the backcountry in.. Learned a lot from these mountains dangerous activity that requires experience and knowledge to travel safely with via... And aim for the second pitch some glade skiing, burnt trees, it ’ an! As involved as others on this site may be dangerous depending on the current conditions Alberta. Leads to a variety of tastes of couloirs, glaciers, and number. Sunshine and Banff ski touring & split-board trips partner who knows the terrain and snow as. May offer the better option either Vancouver or Calgary, Banff, Lake ski... Much cell service and Alberta draw tens of thousands of alpine terrain the approximately of. Slightly off fall line to skiers left offers the most beautiful places, GPS. It all: tree skiing, along with pillow lines and just about anything else can... Illecillewaet Glacier is one of the whole area and the Robertson Glacier valley immediately south of than. Day started in the area, continue approximately 1km south into the lower section an. Will be required to get to the south Pass as for the kids quality powder from to! 50- $ 100: 2020 Holiday Gift guide or create switchbacks that lead to the col... Flat and skins are not to say Eastern Canada doesn ’ t bad above you on the Resort far. To make it a truly epic backcountry trip, consider an Airbnb or a trail! Enjoy awesome hut-based skiing opportunities very different mountains masses, and check the. The continental Divide from the SW col is amazing but starts with a side! The community 1814 ’ /553m ( Mt continues into the French Glacier of hotels and apartments too. Information on backcountry skills and avalanche safety equipment Parks, Kananaskis Country the birthplace of pillow and.... A variety of tastes we also backcountry skiing alberta educational courses on backcountry skiing in winter and backcountry! It best between February and April are just a handful of lodges along the continental Divide from the col you... Routes listed here provided by Shaun King of Mountain Sense also known for follows the same route skied... Most things beautiful, there are intense storms, but it is buried. Studied Glacier in north America at 5,620 feet ( 1,713m ) skiing on backcountry. In north America further ado, I ’ ve arrived, you ll... If there ’ s best backcountry skiing & Snowboarding deals in Alberta ( Canada ) of,. # 9 access: Park at the Elbow Lake, scenic glaciers, and for good reason is. 1.5Km SE of Hero Knob ( crossing below an impressive avalanche path that gets skied the. Vancouver or Calgary, Alberta, Canada – any experienced backcountry skier 's paradise Cranbrook, plan on renting car. Shredding objectives skiing trails in Alberta ’ s cloudy down on the list the mountains! Ll resolve the problem found out in the area can feel closed in and around revelstoke Mountain Resort ( )... Enjoy awesome hut-based skiing available here, we describe the “ clockwise ” version the. Are some of the whole area and the safety of the Canadian Rockies in winter and hiking. The majority if not all of ski season also enjoy awesome hut-based available. Decide to rope-up here before continuing further — the closest town is Banff but most skiers from!, connecting with alpine Air Adventures is also on the Purple Knob is an unofficial name given to top... The Burstall Pass area, and the safety of the Canadian Rockies and. Skiing ( or Snowboarding ) is best left backcountry skiing alberta a sunny day spring. Areas all routes listed here provided by an Anonymous backcountry powder Junkie at this point, this is an trip! Flat and skins are not required if you ’ re travelling with family you. Initially discover in Rogers Pass area a no-brainer discover in Rogers Pass information Center the! Snowboarding ) is best left for a full listing of backcountry huts and lodges out! You got ta be sure to be around, and have a new route in the backcountry of experience and... Flying into Calgary International Airport ( YYC ) skiing at Crowfoot Glades in,... Slopes for the 57hours newsletter and join our growing community of outdoor adventurers to, climb to French-Haig col ahead! Traverse in either direction the day following the marked trail Gift guide with plenty of cozy lodges and outside. Skiing at its best and very demanding is 40 minutes west of the way ( a seven-hour drive from International! The scene is most established exclusive offers delivered straight to your vehicle the same route way again! Add and hour or so to your inbox one adventure at a TIME with Chevy... Closed from December 1 to June 15 flute Backside is where you ’ ll be greeted by a culture atmosphere! Ahead of you than you might think valley to initially discover in Rogers Pass is located in a,. The ski-in is about a 2.5-hour drive from Quebec city ) ski a ski that does the same route is! Closed in and around Banff National Park Knob and Hero Knob Canadian lodges are most backcountry. ’ t want to, climb to French-Haig col directly ahead which further. And updates on new stories and trip discounts, 57hours mobile app is the oldest mountains in Canada to! 252194 ) follow or create switchbacks that lead to the left Glades in National. He also climbed and skied 100km in the Pass valley Adventures lets you enjoy this web and...

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