Ride the gondola, skin out into high alpine bowls, and spend an 8‑hour guided day skiing or splitboarding fresh lines beyond the resort. Ideal for strong intermediates comfortable in variable snow and committed to avalanche safety.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push through the gondola doors with snow-dampened breath; the valley still holds the low, crisp light of morning. A guide tightens your pack, checks beacons, and you ride above the resort to a ridge that gives way to wider terrain — trees opening to bowls and wind-scoured faces begging for a first turn. The air smells of cold and resin from the subalpine firs as skins click on and the day begins.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness; able to skin uphill for sustained periods and handle long descents in variable snow conditions
Wildlife
History
Whistler’s skiing heritage grew from 20th‑century mountaineering and expanded with resort development in the 1960s; the 2010 Olympics further spotlighted the region’s alpine terrain.
Conservation
Guided access reduces risk and environmental impact; follow Leave No Trace, minimize group sizes, and avoid creating new skintracks on sensitive slopes.
Reserve your spot on the Whistler Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring and know your avalanche kit
A beacon, probe and shovel are essential — practice a quick beacon search and ask your guide for a refresher before leaving the ridge.
Start early for stable snow
Morning turns often offer the best settled snow and visibility; aim to be on the skintrack soon after gondola opening.
Layer for coastal winter conditions
Expect cold winds and wet snow—use a waterproof shell with breathable insulation to manage glaciers and tree runs.
Hydration and calorie planning
Carry at least 1–1.5 L water and high‑calorie snacks; long skin sections burn more energy than lift laps.
Avalanche beacon, probe & shovel
Non‑negotiable safety kit for locating and rescuing in avalanche terrain.
winter
Touring skis or splitboard with skins & touring bindings
Provides uphill travel and efficient descents in the backcountry.
winter
Waterproof, breathable shell and insulated midlayer
Protects from wet coastal snow and wind while allowing temperature control.
winter
Ski boots/splitboard boots compatible with your bindings
Comfortable, well‑fitted boots improve control on varied snow and long approaches.
winter