{"id":3736,"date":"2019-12-10T16:27:15","date_gmt":"2019-12-10T16:27:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.alps2alps.com\/?p=3736"},"modified":"2024-06-14T12:24:16","modified_gmt":"2024-06-14T12:24:16","slug":"what-is-ski-mountaineering","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/testwp.alps2alps.com\/blog\/what-is-ski-mountaineering","title":{"rendered":"What is Ski Mountaineering? Best Mountains in the Alps"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Combining the best of off-piste skiing, climbing and hiking, ski mountaineering is perfectly suited to nature lovers who aren\u2019t afraid of an adrenaline rush.<\/p>\n

Sounds like fun? We explain what ski mountaineering is<\/strong> and explore the best ski mountaineering destinations to visit across the Alps.<\/p>\n

If you want to venture through remote mountain ranges, enjoy unspoilt nature from above the trees and challenge yourself to climb steep summits, this sport could be for you…<\/p>\n

What is Ski Mountaineering?<\/h2>\n

Put simply, ski mountaineering combines ski touring with mountaineering. It allows you to explore harder to reach mountains and remote spots by climbing, hiking and skiing to the summit. Ski mountaineering usually involves ascending and descending a mountain on skis, or carrying them up and skiing back down, depending on steepness.<\/p>\n

There are two main skiing styles to choose from;<\/p>\n

Alpine\/Nordic<\/h3>\n

In this skiing style, the heel of the boot is locked down so that it stays in place for the descent.<\/p>\n

Freeheel\/ Telemark<\/h3>\n

In Freeheel skiing the heel of the boot is not locked in place, requiring a different technique for downhill turns.<\/p>\n

One isn\u2019t better than the other. The type of skiing style you choose is completely down to personal preference.<\/p>\n

How Hard is Ski Mountaineering?<\/h2>\n

Steep ascents, high altitudes and narrow ridges can make ski mountaineering a challenge, heightening the thrill when you reach the top of the mountain!<\/p>\n

That being said, it does require a decent level of fitness, skiing skills and a good command of the slopes.<\/p>\n

You can find routes of varying difficulty; however most are better suited to intermediate\/ advanced skiers with off-piste experience<\/a>. We also recommend starting a training regime before your trip to make the most of your time on the mountain as the high altitudes can make it harder to catch your breath.<\/p>\n

Benefits of Ski Mountaineering<\/h2>\n

So, is ski mountaineering worth the effort? We think so, and here\u2019s why;<\/p>\n