Skip the crowded resorts and discover these lesser-known ski touring paradises. From Japanese powder to Norwegian fjords, here are five destinations that promise unforgettable backcountry experiences.
1. Hokkaido's Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan
Location: Central Hokkaido, accessible from Asahikawa Airport
Best Time: January to March for optimal powder conditions
Terrain:
- Variety of volcanic peaks
- Open bowls and tree skiing
- Moderate to advanced routes
- Average snowfall: 14+ meters annually
Local Tips:
- Stay in Asahidake Onsen village
- Visit local onsens (hot springs) for post-ski recovery
- Try Hokkaido's famous soup curry
- Book a local guide for avalanche safety
Getting There: 1.5-hour drive from Asahikawa Airport
2. Lyngen Alps, Norway
Location: Northern Norway, above the Arctic Circle
Best Time: March to May (including midnight sun skiing in late spring)
Terrain:
- Summit-to-sea runs
- Steep couloirs
- Pristine powder fields
- 1,000m+ vertical descents
Local Tips:
- Base yourself in Lyngseidet
- Book a stay on a ski yacht for maximum flexibility
- Chase the Northern Lights at night
- Try fresh local seafood
Getting There: 2-hour drive from Tromsø Airport
3. Quebrada Benjamín, Chile
Location: Central Andes, near Santiago
Best Time: July to September
Terrain:
- High-altitude powder
- Technical couloirs
- Wide-open valleys
- 3,000m+ peaks
Local Tips:
- Stay in the mountain town of Farellones
- Visit Santiago's vibrant food markets
- Enjoy Chilean wine tasting
- Consider hiring a local mountain guide
Getting There: 1.5-hour drive from Santiago International Airport
4. Mount Elbrus Region
Location: Caucasus Mountains
Best Time: February to April
Terrain:
- High-alpine environment
- Extensive glacier touring
- Mixed difficulty routes
- Views of Europe's highest peak
Local Tips:
- Base yourself in Terskol village
- Try local Caucasian cuisine
- Visit mineral hot springs
- Bring all necessary safety equipment
Getting There: Flight to Mineralyne Vody, then 3-hour drive
5. Mount Aspiring National Park, New Zealand
Location: South Island, near Wanaka
Best Time: July to September (Southern Hemisphere winter)
Terrain:
- Varied glacier terrain
- Remote backcountry huts
- Technical couloirs
- Pristine Southern Alps views
Local Tips:
- Stay in Wanaka
- Visit local breweries
- Book hut accommodations in advance
- Combine with winter hiking
Getting There: 1-hour drive from Queenstown Airport
Essential Safety Tips
- Always check avalanche forecasts
- Carry proper safety equipment
- Never ski tour alone
- Book a guide if unfamiliar with the area
- Ensure proper fitness level for high-altitude touring
What to Pack
- Avalanche safety gear (beacon, probe, shovel)
- Touring-specific skis and skins
- High-quality eyewear (like VALLON's Heron Glacier, Ski Aviators or our new Watchtowers™)
- Emergency shelter
- Navigation tools
- First aid kit
