Discover untouched early-season lines on the Ketmen Ridge, a five-day guided ski and splitboard programme east of Almaty. Stay in a heated mountain hut, ride optional horseback approaches, and follow guides through couloirs and open faces in the Northern Tien Shan.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low sun slices across jagged cornices as you step from the hut into a valley that still smells of wood smoke; the Ketmen Ridge rises, uncompromising and white, a string of couloirs and open faces that push the Tien Shan’s winter into early season. Guides check skins and radios while horses clip-clop at the treeline—this is a borderland of snow and silence, just 20 km from Kazakhstan’s frontier with China.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness with prior ski-touring or splitboarding experience; expect long ascents on skins and technical descents.
Wildlife
History
The Ketmen area sits on traditional seasonal grazing routes used by Kazakh herders; its remoteness limited development until modern backcountry interest.
Conservation
Travelers should pack out waste, avoid lingering in sensitive alpine zones, and follow guide instructions to reduce avalanche-triggering exposure and wildlife disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Ketmen ridge skitour programme today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Check avalanche forecast and pack a beacon
Guides bring stability assessments, but each participant should carry and know how to use a beacon, probe and shovel.
Layer for wide temperature swings
Bring breathable base layers and an insulated mid-layer—the hut is warm but ridge winds can be brutally cold.
Start in Almaty with buffer time
Plan to arrive a day early for kit checks, briefing and to avoid weather-related transfer issues.
Practice uphill technique
Skinning efficiency saves energy—work on transitions and kick-turns before joining multi-day tours.
Avalanche beacon, probe and shovel
Essential for safety in backcountry terrain; guides will check competencies.
winter
Ski touring or splitboard setup (skis/board, bindings, skins)
Required for ascents and descents—rentals may be available in Almaty or via the operator.
winter
Mountaineering-style layers and shell jacket
Windproof, waterproof outer layers and insulated mid-layers manage exposure on ridgelines.
winter
Helmet and ABS or small pack with hydration
Helmet protects on technical lines; a compact pack carries safety kit, food and water.
winter