How To Start Ski Touring

With thousands of hours exploring the hidden corners of the Tignes - Val d'Isere ski area, Terry Walker, an experienced off-piste ski instructor based in Val d'Isère with TDCski, shares his expertise on how to take your first steps into the rewarding world of ski touring in this guide.

While many skiers are familiar with Val d'Isère's world-renowned pistes and lift system, a vast playground lies just beyond - accessible only to those willing to earn their turns. The beauty of this iconic resort is that it offers the perfect introduction to ski touring, with options to use lifts for initial altitude before a manageable touring stretch rewards you with fresh, untouched snow. For the more adventurous, an expansive terrain awaits, without using the lift system. My philosophy is simple: if there's snow on it, it can usually be skied.

Venturing into this realm requires more than just enthusiasm for skiing or off-piste ability; it demands preparation, knowledge and profound respect for the mountains. Allow me to guide you through the essential steps to begin your journey into the rewarding discipline of ski touring.

Speak with an instructor or guide before your adventure to be able to match you with the equipment that you’ll need for your personal situation, probably more knowingly that a rental shop. Unlike traditional downhill skiing, ski touring requires boots with a walk mode, bindings that release into a pivot system to allow the movement, and skins for the base of the skis to allow upward movement on snow. There may also be the need for ski-crampons (couteaux), if the snow is icy. Additionally, avalanche safety gear, including a transceiver, shovel, and probe, should always accompany you on your backcountry excursions.

An off piste instructor or guide is somewhat crucial for at least your first session. They will guide you through the kit, the movement techniques, and choose a safe environment to facilitate your learning and enjoyment. Understanding snowpack stability, terrain assessment, and rescue techniques are indispensable for safe and enjoyable ski touring experiences.

As with any new endeavour, it's wise to start with modest objectives and gradually progress as your skills and confidence grow. Begin by exploring well-travelled routes with gentle terrain and minimal avalanche risk. Familiarise yourself with the nuances of uphill travel and practise transitioning between climbing and skiing modes. As you gain proficiency, you can gradually tackle more challenging terrain and longer tours.

As a guideline, a novice ski tourer will be able to make 500m of ascent in about 2 hours. That is a pace that allows comfort and not being particularly out of breath. Lower altitudes, like the boat touring trips that we run in Norway from sea level, make it much easier, where clients will climb at 400m an hour. Our higher altitude trips, for instance Kyrgyzstan at 3000m, our experienced clients will only move at 200m per hour.

The pristine beauty of the backcountry is a privilege to behold, but it also demands our utmost respect and stewardship. Practise "Leave No Trace" principles by minimising your impact on the environment, avoiding wildlife disturbances, and properly disposing of waste - even banana skins and orange peel. Stay informed about local regulations and guidelines, and always prioritise safety over ambition when assessing risk in the mountains. For instance, in the national parks in France, no dogs are allowed.

About the only stressful or complicated part of ski touring is making a kick turn successfully. It’s a required technique when the slope one is ascending becomes steep.

Here's a simple tutorial:



In Val d'Isere, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and endless possibilities, ski touring isn't merely a sport - it's a way of life. Many people were forced into ski touring during the COVID-19 season, and have not looked back, enjoying it as a new sport for life. If you enjoy nature, wilderness and snowy mountains, then ski touring is a bit like hill-walking, but in a more beautiful setting, where you then get to ski down! What’s not to love.

Now you know how to get started on your ski touring journey, it's time to experience the joy of this rewarding discipline firsthand. Book a session with a TDC guide and discover the beauty of the backcountry under expert guidance.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure in Val d'Isère? Browse our luxury catered chalets where you can balance exhilarating days touring the mountains with evenings of exceptional service and comfort.