Ski Touring also referred to as Skinning, Alpine Touring, Split-Boarding, and/or Backcountry Skiing is at its basics hiking up the mountain with skis on. Once at the top you downhill ski / snowboard back down. Ski Touring gear uses directional skins paired with a touring binding to allow a released heel on the way up but the ability to lock the heel down to downhill ski. Split-Boards are the snowboard version of these tools, the snowboard splits into two paired with special bindings that rotate and allow you to go up.

If you are here chances are you have heard people talking about backcountry skiing or snowboarding. Too often this spoken about in terms of dramatic and consequential alpine terrain which is only reinforced through content shared in ski and snowboard movies / films. This creates misconceptions and the ideology that someone may not have enough downhill ability to get out. This is not the case.

Ski Touring is a means to access resort hills at odd times or to get some exercise in, it can allow you to explore a backcountry carriage road, and moderate forested terrain. Skiing outside of resort settings is something attainable for anyone with some downhill skiing experience. Ski Touring and Split-Boarding is a means to adventure and be active. That adventure is as easy or aggressive as you want make it.

Our programs are uphill focused and open to all ability levels for uphill skiing. First time touring? Come and join us to get out in a safe and welcoming environment. We ask that you are comfortable downhill skiing on beginner to moderate terrain or green and blue terrain on resorts. While we are open to everyone of all ability levels it is important to note that our programs do not entail any downhill lessons. You should be comfortable skiing down the mountain with others around to assist if needed. If you are interested in trying but have no downhill experience we recommend getting a downhill lesson first on a resort.

Note: Our BIPOC / PGM tours do not require any prior downhill experience.

Ski Touring rentals are available through the Mt. Abram rental department. Rentals pick-up will be available the morning of but should be reserved in advanced. Reach out to rentals@mtabram.com for reservations and questions.

Our programs at Mt. Abram on average take 90 minutes to skin up, transition, and ski/snowboard back down the mountain. The uphill route we take is approximately 1.4 miles with just over 1000’ of elevation gain.

While we have our programs open to all ability levels we ask that you take your personal fitness level into account. You must be able to walk 1.4 miles with 1000’ of climbing at a relaxed pace.

If you have questions about layering, please check out our guide for this here.

If you have questions about gear, please check out our gear list here.