Improve Your Ski Touring Skills in the Aravis
Do you already have some ski touring experience and want to become more efficient, improve your technique and gain greater independence? This advanced ski touring day in the Aravis is designed to help you consolidate your skills with the support of a certified mountain guide.
Kick turns, route selection, energy management, terrain observation and downhill technique in ungroomed snow: your guide adapts the content of the day to your experience and the group’s objectives.
The itinerary is selected on the day in the Aravis, Bornes or Bargy ranges, particularly around La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand. The final choice depends on the weather, snow cover, snowpack stability and the participants’ actual ability.
Level: Intermediate, Level 2 to 3
Duration: One day
Indicative elevation gain: Up to 1,000 m
Group size: 3 to 6 participants per guide
Why Choose This Advanced Ski Touring Day?
Improve Your Uphill Technique
Your guide will help you develop the techniques required to move more efficiently and conserve energy:
- maintain a steady pace;
- optimise your stride length;
- use your heel risers correctly;
- improve your kick turns;
- use ski crampons when conditions require them;
- manage your energy over a longer route.
Improve Your Downhill Technique
The day also gives you the opportunity to improve your confidence and technique in ungroomed snow. Depending on the terrain and conditions, your guide will offer advice to help you adapt your stance, speed and line.
The aim is to become more confident in different snow conditions, without focusing solely on performance.
Develop Your Understanding of the Terrain
During the outing, you will learn to better understand the winter mountain environment through:
- reading the terrain;
- observing the snow;
- understanding the effects of wind and slope aspect;
- identifying technical sections;
- choosing a suitable uphill track;
- adapting the route to current conditions.
This day is one step towards greater independence. It does not replace comprehensive training in snow science, route planning or avalanche rescue.
Who Is This Outing For?
This outing is designed for skiers who already have ski touring experience and want to consolidate their skills.
To participate in suitable conditions, you should ideally:
- have already completed several ski touring outings;
- know how to use climbing skins and operate your bindings;
- understand the principles of kick turns;
- be comfortable on red runs and in ungroomed snow;
- be physically capable of completing a day with up to approximately 1,000 m of elevation gain;
- be able to ski on slopes that may occasionally reach approximately 35 degrees.
If you are unsure about your level, please consult our dedicated ability-level guide or contact the Bureau des Guides d’Annecy before booking.
Where Does the Outing Take Place?
The final destination is selected by the guide according to the conditions. The outing may take place around La Clusaz, Le Grand-Bornand, the Bornes or the Bargy range.
Depending on the weather, snow cover, avalanche risk and the group’s ability, routes such as the Col de Balafrasse, Col du Rasoir or Tête d’Auferrand may be considered. These objectives are indicative only and can never be guaranteed.
How the Day Is Organised
1. Welcome and Equipment Check
The guide speaks with each participant about their experience, ability and objectives. Personal equipment and avalanche safety gear are checked before departure.
2. Route Briefing
The guide presents the selected route, expected elevation gain, observed conditions and the main points requiring attention.
3. Progression and Technical Advice
During the ascent, the guide observes your technique and provides personalised advice on pacing, kick turns, fitting ski crampons and selecting the best uphill track.
4. Terrain Observation
The day also provides opportunities to discuss the snow, terrain, slope aspects and decisions made throughout the route.
5. Descent in Ungroomed Snow
The guide selects a descent suited to the conditions and the group’s ability. Technical advice helps each participant improve and adapt more effectively to changing snow conditions.
FAQ
What Ability Level Is Required?
This day is designed for intermediate ski tourers. Participants must already have ski touring experience, be familiar with the basic equipment and techniques, and feel comfortable skiing in ungroomed snow. A level of fitness suitable for completing up to approximately 1,000 m of elevation gain is recommended.
Where Does the Advanced Ski Touring Outing Take Place?
The outing takes place in the Aravis, Bornes or Bargy ranges, particularly around La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand. The guide selects the final area according to the weather, snow cover, avalanche conditions and safety considerations.
Which Techniques Will Be Covered?
The day may cover kick turns, uphill track selection, energy management, ski-crampon use, transitions, terrain observation and downhill technique in ungroomed snow.
Is Equipment Provided?
Skis, ski boots, poles and climbing skins are not provided. An avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe may be available to borrow on request. Ski crampons and a helmet are compulsory for this outing.
How Many People Are in the Group?
The outing is confirmed with a minimum of three participants. Groups are limited to a maximum of six participants per guide.
Can the Programme Be Changed?
Yes. The guide may change the area, route, elevation gain or programme according to the weather, snow conditions, avalanche risk and the group’s ability.
