Ski & Split-board Touring
Ski Tekapo Adventures
Explore real backcountry with expert guides
Relax in heated private huts
Lake Tekapo Ski Touring & Split-boarding
Lake Tekapo Ski Touring & Split-boarding
Multi-Day Backcountry Adventures with Private Huts and Expert Guides
Discover the wide open terrain and hidden powder stashes of the Two Thumb Range and Cass Valley, right above Lake Tekapo. With Alpine Recreation and Glenmore Station’s private huts as your base, you’ll experience some of New Zealand’s best backcountry skiing and riding – real backcountry, away from the crowds, in a true alpine wilderness.
Why Tekapo?
The Two Thumb Range and Cass Valley offer a perfect blend of rolling basins, steep faces, and long descents, with spectacular views across Lake Tekapo to Aoraki / Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. The snowpack is reliable, with fresh storms replenishing the slopes throughout winter. Thanks to easy access and comfortable hut bases, Tekapo is one of the best places in New Zealand to learn ski touring or to challenge yourself on multi-day alpine adventures.
What to Expect
- Guided Ski Touring & Split-boarding – Explore untouched lines with experienced mountain guides who know where to find the best snow.
- Private Huts – Stay in Alpine Recreation and Glenmore Station’s huts (Rex Simpson Hut, Lady Emily Hut, Falcon’s Nest, O'Leary's Hut), designed for ski tourers, with warm wood burners, fully-stocked kitchens, and unbeatable views.
- Terrain for All Levels – From gentle slopes perfect for beginners to big alpine days for seasoned ski mountaineers, there’s something for every ability.
- Light Packs, Big Days – No need to carry tents or heavy gear; our huts provide the base so you can focus on the skiing.
- Equipment Provided – Avalanche safety kit (transceiver, shovel, probe) and quality, modern ski touring gear is included free of charge.
- Logistics Covered – Return 4WD transport from Lake Tekapo village, food, cooking gear, and hut supplies are all included – you just bring your personal kit.
- Heli Access – Helicopter access can be arranged for fast hut drop-offs or pick-ups, opening the door to longer traverses and more remote terrain.
Highlights
- Earn your turns above the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo
- Ski and ride in a remote mountain environment far from ski-field crowds
- Relax with hearty meals and a warm hut after a day in the snow
- Learn touring skills in a safe and supportive environment, or push your limits on longer traverses
- Small groups ensure a personalised adventure
Two Thumb Range
Ski touring & split-boarding
The Two Thumb Range is Alpine Recreation’s home base for ski touring and split-boarding, offering everything from gentle beginner slopes to challenging alpine traverses.
With our private Rex Simpson Hut providing a comfortable base, you can enjoy multi-day adventures without heavy packs, making it one of the most accessible and rewarding backcountry areas in New Zealand.
Cass Valley Ski Touring
Wild and remote backcountry
If you’re ready to venture further afield, Alpine Recreation offers ski touring adventures in the Cass Valley, the wild and remote high country west of Lake Tekapo.
With exclusive access to private huts such as Lady Emily Hut and Falcon’s Nest, the Cass Valley offers steeper terrain, longer runs, and a true sense of expedition – a perfect progression for those who have experienced ski touring in the Two Thumb Range.
Backcountry Ski & Avalanche Skills Courses
Up-skill with professional mountain guides
For those wanting to build skills and confidence in the backcountry, the Two Thumb Range is home to our Backcountry Ski and Avalanche Courses.
Based at Rex Simpson Hut above Lake Tekapo, these courses are the perfect way to learn safe travel techniques, avalanche awareness, and essential decision-making skills while enjoying great skiing and riding terrain.
Heli ski & split-board touring
Access untouched and remote terrain
Alpine Recreation also offers heli-ski and split-board tours in the ranges around Lake Tekapo. A short flight lifts you into untouched alpine basins and remote peaks, giving access to long descents and pristine powder that would take days to reach on foot. It’s the perfect add-on for strong skiers and riders wanting to maximise their time in the mountains.
Heli Ski & Split-board Touring
Nordic Ski Touring
Travel light
If you prefer a lighter style of travel, the Two Thumb Range is also ideal for Nordic Ski Touring. Using lighter skis and boots, you can glide across rolling terrain and along ridgelines high above Lake Tekapo, soaking up vast alpine views without the need for steep ascents or descents. It’s a unique way to explore the mountains at a relaxed pace, and a great option for those new to backcountry skiing.
Lake Tekapo Nordic Ski TouringJoin us for a real backcountry experience
Whether you’re a skier wanting to make the step from resort to backcountry, a snowboarder ready to explore on a splitboard, or an experienced tourer seeking new terrain, Lake Tekapo offers the perfect playground.
