Glacier
Touring & Ski Mountaineering
Ski and ride New Zealand's spectacular glaciers
New Zealand's Best Glacier Touring & Ski Mountaineering
New Zealand's Best Glacier Touring & Ski Mountaineering
Explore the glaciated peaks and remote icefields of the Southern Alps
For those seeking the ultimate backcountry challenge, New Zealand’s glacier ski touring, split-board touring, and ski mountaineering adventures offer an unparalleled alpine experience. From long glacial descents to technical ski mountaineering objectives, the Southern Alps provide an incredible variety of terrain for those ready to take their skills to the next level.
Why Ski or Ride on Glaciers?
New Zealand’s glaciated peaks and remote icefields create a true alpine touring paradise, offering:
✔ Expansive Terrain – Vast, open glaciers with long descents and breathtaking scenery.
✔ Untouched Powder – High-altitude snowfields ensure consistent conditions throughout the season.
✔ Technical Challenges – A mix of gentle touring routes and steep ski mountaineering lines.
✔ Remote Wilderness – Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the backcountry.
Glacier Ski & Split-Board Touring Adventures
For backcountry skiers and split-boarders, glacier touring provides the ultimate combination of exploration and adventure. Using touring skis or split-boards, you’ll navigate across sprawling icefields, climb scenic ridgelines, and enjoy thrilling descents in some of the most spectacular terrain in the country.
Top Glacier Touring Destinations:
🏔️ Tasman Glacier – New Zealand’s longest glacier, explore Canyon Lands and ski classic lines.
🏔️ Murchison, Mannering & Aida Glaciers – remote backcountry touring, with incredible ski touring terrain.
🏔️ Fox & Franz-Josef Glaciers – West Coast wilderness with breathtaking high-alpine scenery and views over the ocean.
Ski Mountaineering: The Ultimate Challenge
For those looking to push their limits, ski mountaineering combines the skills of ski touring, alpine climbing, and technical descents. With the guidance of experienced IFMGA & NZMGA certified mountaineering and ski guides, you’ll learn glacier travel techniques, crevasse rescue skills, and safe route-finding in high-altitude environments.
Key Skills You’ll Learn:
🔹 Glacier Travel & Crevasse Rescue – Safe navigation and rescue techniques in glaciated terrain.
🔹 Ice Axe & Crampon Use – Essential tools for steeper ascents and technical lines.
🔹 Steep Ski Techniques – How to ski safely on steeper and more exposed terrain.
Why Choose a Guided Glacier Touring or Ski Mountaineering Trip?
✔ Expert Local Guides – Learn from IFMGA & NZMGA qualified guides with in-depth knowledge of glacier terrain, mountain weather and avalanche hazard assessment.
✔ Access the Best Terrain – Venture into the Southern Alps’ most untouched ski touring zones. Our guides have a good understand of local weather patterns and know the best places to go for good skiing and riding.
✔ Technical Equipment – Quality, modern ski touring, mountaineering and avalanche equipment is provided.
✔ Logistics Management – Maximise your time on the snow and let Alpine Recreation do the trip planning and organising.
Take Your Backcountry Skills to the Next Level
Whether you’re after a multi-day glacier touring adventure or looking to develop your ski mountaineering skills, New Zealand’s Southern Alps provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable backcountry experience. Are you ready for the challenge?
