Best BACKCOUNTRY SKI TOUR In Norway

BACKCOUNTRY SKI TOUR – BEGINNER

Looking to get out of the city and enjoy classic Norwegian nature away from the hustle and bustle of work, crowds and responsibility? Join us today on a guided backcountry adventure in the mountains outside of Voss to rediscover a wild world filled with perfect powder conditions.

Intermediate to advanced slopes	Professional guide
Challenges for the adventurous	Beautiful panorama vistas

Backcountry Bliss for Beginners

Backcountry Skiing, also known as Alpine Touring, involves skiing in unmarked, wild terrains beyond the boundaries of ski resorts. These areas, often secluded and untouched, demand lengthy uphill hikes to reach the summit of each slope. To navigate this terrain effectively, specialized tour bindings are essential. These bindings are designed to allow the heel to remain free while ascending, similar to a cross-country setup, and then securely lock in place for the downhill descent.

For navigating uphill, climbing skins are indispensable. These attach to the skis, preventing the skier from sliding backward during the ascent, a process commonly referred to as "skinning."

In the past, backcountry touring for snowboarders posed more challenges until the invention of the splitboard. These snowboards, equipped with specialized bindings and skins, can be separated into halves to facilitate an ascent on "skis" and then seamlessly rejoined for the descent.

Off-piste skiing typically occurs off the main groomed runs within ski resorts but still utilizes lifts for returning to the top after each run. Backcountry skiing stands apart as it unfolds entirely outside the confines of ski resorts, though occasionally, skiers might use a lift once to access the initial backcountry terrain.

off the beaten path

EXPLORE YOUR OWN PATHS

Backcountry skiing in Voss: A Journey Through the Winter Wonderland

Blessed with an abundance of enticing backcountry ski terrain in close proximity, Voss stands out as one of the snowiest regions in Norway, ensuring a prolonged and spectacular winter season.

Discover the thrill of untouched slopes and pristine landscapes as you navigate through the captivating backcountry of Voss. Enjoy the serenity of little traffic, allowing you to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the surroundings. Regardless of your skill level or skiing preference, Voss offers a diverse range of terrain types tailored to meet every adventurer's expectations.

Get ready to carve your way through the snowy expanses of Voss, where every ascent unveils panoramic vistas that will leave you breathless, and every descent is a journey into the heart of nature's pristine beauty. Welcome to Voss – where the thrill of backcountry skiing meets the tranquility of an untouched winter paradise.

Certified guides

Embark on your adventure with confidence as our certified professionals, boasting years of invaluable experience, lead the way. Our guides are not only experts in their field but also passionate about providing you with a memorable and safe journey. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a novice explorer, our team is dedicated to ensuring that your experience is not only thrilling but also filled with insights and knowledge.

DESIGN

Sleek and modern
Lightweight frame
Performance driven

MARKETING = REALITY

Shimano drivetrain
Top-notch wheels
Performance - Style - Versatility

DRIVETRAIN & BRAKES

Shimano EP8 motor
630W battery
Shimano 4-piston brakes

HIGH QUALITY WHEELS

29-inch front wheels
27.5-inch rear wheel
Kenda Regolith tires (exceptional grip, all terrain)

Location

Voss

Season

Jan - Apr

Price

1750 NOK (adult)
1575 NOK (youth)

Included

Transport + Expert guide

Duration

7 Hours

Difficulty

Intermediate to advanced

Requirements

Some experience on skis

Recommendation

This tour is suitable for beginners
and intermediate backcountry skiers.

Details

For Backcountry skiing (beginner) in Voss

WHAT’S INCLUDED

INCLUDED

✔️ Private guide
✔️Transportation from Voss town to the skiing location and back to Voss

NOT INCLUDED

❌ Lunch, beverages and snacks
❌ Avalanche safety kit (beacon, shovel, probe and backpack) You can rental this with us
❌ Lift tickets (should you want to ski near the local resort)
❌ Accident/travel insurance (one which specifically covers skiing)
❌ Transportation costs if staying at a location outside of Voss town

Note: If you’re in need of equipment see our rentals offers or please contact our staff to discuss the rental options in our area.

ITINERARY

Show up 10 minutes before your scheduled time outside the Visit Voss shop, in the same building of the Gondola, and Train Station + Bus Station.

Meeting and greetings
Drive to the start location
Gear outfitting
Theoretical instructions
Hit the slopes
Lunch break
More slopes
Drive back to town
Return gear, if rented it
Time to celebrate an awesome adventure in the Norwegian mountains 😄

GUEST REQUIREMENTS

+14 years old (the guardian signs waiver for minors)
Confident on skis
Good physical health

Before your trip, please inform us or your guide of any medical conditions like asthma, epilepsy, etc.

WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU

If you’re in need of equipment see our rental offers table below or please contact our staff to discuss the rental options in our area. Otherwise, minimum gear requirements include:

Skis with walk bindings (alpine touring, Telemark or split-board set up)
Climbing skins
Ski boots, poles & helmet
Avalanche safety kit (transceiver, shovel, probe)
Personal backpack
(items above you can rent from us, prices below)
Shell jacket with hood (water & windproof)
Shell pants or bibs
Down or synthetic jacket
Mid-layer sweater or vest (if its too cold)
Base layers, wool is best
Gloves, hat, socks, goggles & sunglasses for the hiking up if is a sunny day

DATES & DESTINATIONS

Our backcountry tours are available every Saturday and Sunday, from January to April. For special departure dates you can inquiry a private tour via the contact form bellow. We will determine where the ski tour will take place 48-hours before the assigned departure time. Our decision will be based on the group’s wishes, as well as the weather, snow conditions, and avalanche forecast. You will find the list of possible destinations listed below.

LOCATIONS

Mount Oksen (Hardangerfjord)
Lønahorgi – Voss to Afdal traverse
Raundalen mountain range
Vikafjell
Sognefjord, mountain range on the south side

There are few other hidden gems in the area and we do not make them public on the web or social platforms. After your booking is made our staff will contact you 48 hrs before the tour to discuss the better options for the date set. 😉

STARTING TIME

Tours will start at 8:30 am and return to Voss around 3 pm. During the late winter and spring seasons, tours may be extended due to the increased amount of daylight hours.

The meeting point will always be in Voss, at the tourist information center.

Pick-ups for those staying outside of Voss town can be arranged upon special request.

SOLO TRAVELERS OR SMALL GROUPS

If you are traveling as an individual or in a group of up to 2 persons, this product offers a spot in an open group. It’s a great opportunity to meet new mates and share the passion for ski touring!

1 person: 1.650/day per person
2 or 3 people: 4.500/day per group
4 people: 5.643/day per group
5 people: 6.000/day per group
6 people: 6.500/day per group

Be aware that we need a minimum of 3 participants to offer you a spot for 1650,- NOK/ person. In case of 2 and fewer bookings per day, you will be offered to share expenses for a private guide (4500,- NOK/ day) or the trip will be canceled and we will fully refund you.

FAQ

WHEN DOES YOUR SEASON START AND END?

We begin skiing once the snow blankets the mountains, and we keep at it until the snow tapers off! Typically, this spans from early December to late April, but it's entirely up to Mother Nature!

WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME?

Before your activity, you will receive a detailed list of recommended items to bring, including appropriate clothing and gear for the activity. This typically encompasses recommended clothing and gear such as:

Ski jacket and pants, hardshell, gloves, hat, hiking boots
Woolen underlayers and socks
Backpack
Snacks & water
Skin protection against cold

DO I NEED TO BE PHYSICALLY FIT TO GO SKIING?

We suggest that all our guests have good physical health for skiing activities.

If you have any medical concerns but still wish to go skiing, we advise consulting with your doctor beforehand for your safety. Remember to always ski according to your own skill and fitness level.

DO ANY OF THE SKIING TRIPS CATER TO SENIORS?

Our backcountry skiing tours have no maximum age limit; as long as you're physically fit, and you are enthusiastic, you're welcome to join!

CAN I BRING MY OWN GEAR, SUCH AS SKIS OR A HELMET?

Yes, but only if they have a touring binding that enables releasing the heel for uphill hiking using skins.

WILL USING A SPLIT-BOARD AFFECT PERFORMANCE?

No, in powder, most riders don't experience a performance drop compared to a solid board. However, on hard, icy snow, there's certainly a noticeable difference.

CAN I LEAVE MY BAG/LUGGAGE AT THE BASE?

Yes absolutely, that's not an issue at all.

We have shelves available for storing your belongings while you're out on a tour. Rest assured, there's always a member of our staff present at the base, so your items will be securely looked after— nothing goes missing on our watch!

IS THIS TOUR SUITABLE FOR SNOWBOARDERS?

Yes, it is!

You'll need to hike uphill using snowshoes and carry the board on your backpack with sturdy straps and attachment points.

We highly recommend split-snowboards as they're much more efficient for the ascent.

SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDE?

Tipping isn't customary in Norway, as it is e.g. in the USA. Our guides put in considerable effort to ensure your experience is both enjoyable and safe, maintaining the high standards set by Outdoor Norway.

While tipping is recognized as a standard practice in the industry and is always welcomed, it's never an obligation. It's entirely up to your discretion whether you choose to leave a tip. Your appreciation for the service provided is greatly valued either way.

DO I NEED TO SIGN A WAIVER?

Yes.

Upon joining any activity, a waiver acknowledging risks must be read and signed. For minors, a parent or guardian is required to sign the waiver.