What is ski touring?

Have you ever heard of ski touring? This trending winter activity has arrived with force and is here to stay. That’s why we want you to have all the information you need to start practicing it. In this article, we’ll explain what it is and what you need to get started.

What exactly is ski touring?

It’s an activity that has become very popular in recent years. This different way of exploring the mountains has captivated all kinds of adventurers. It combines skiing and hiking, making it perfect for lovers of both sports. In this discipline, you climb with your skis on and then descend routes that would otherwise be completely inaccessible. The most attractive aspect of this sport is that it allows you to reach unexplored places. In fact, sometimes you’ll be the first to step into and discover certain areas.

Recommendations to get started

The most important thing is safety. This activity requires some prior knowledge and other important considerations to enjoy it with maximum guarantees.

• Don’t go alone: It is not advisable to do this activity solo. Find people who also enjoy it and organize outings together.
• Equipment: It is essential to have proper gear with everything you might need in case of problems in the mountains.
• Basic knowledge: To complete more difficult routes, it is helpful to have first aid knowledge and some training in snow safety.

Remember that there are all types of routes, and some are not particularly difficult beyond the nature of the activity itself. You choose the level you want to reach in this sport.

Everything you need to practice ski touring safely.

What equipment do you need?

We explain it below.

• Skis: Ideally, they should be wide enough to make any type of route comfortable.
• Boots: Although many people use their regular ski boots, we recommend slightly more flexible ones.
• Bindings: You should have Alpine Trekker bindings, which allow you to lift your heel when climbing without excessive effort. This makes movement feel almost as natural as walking.
• Skins: These are placed on the base of your skis to improve grip on the snow, offering extra safety and reducing fatigue.
• Poles: They are essential for this activity. They should have large baskets and, ideally, be foldable for convenience.

Types of terrain you can choose

There are different types of terrain you should know before starting this activity. We describe them below so you can become familiar with the terminology.

• Slackcountry: Located outside ski resort boundaries, but accessed via lifts.
• Frontcountry: Refers to off-piste terrain within ski resort areas.
• Sidecountry: Also outside resort boundaries but accessible via ski lifts.

As you can see, starting ski touring can be a great option if you love snow, skiing, and hiking. In Baqueira, there are many stunning spots waiting to be discovered. Base yourself in the area to make the most of everything it has to offer in winter.

Other sports and activities you can practice in Baqueira

Ski mountaineering (skimo)
Snowboarding
BTT flow trails
Horse-drawn sledding in Baqueira
Mushing in Baqueira