Guided Off-Piste Skiing in the Chamonix Valley
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The Chamonix Valley is world-famous for its off-piste skiing, and for good reason. From hidden tree runs to steep couloirs to the world famous Vallée Blanche, the terrain here is as varied as it is exciting. Whether you’re looking for long, flowing powder descents or challenging technical lines, Chamonix delivers some of the best skiing experiences in the Alps.
Exploring off-piste with an IFMGA Mountain Guide gives you the freedom to focus on the fun, knowing the safety, route-finding, and local knowledge are all taken care of. Every day is different — the weather, the snow, and where we go — and that’s part of the adventure. When you join us for guided off-piste skiing, you’ll discover the quieter corners of the valley, ski memorable lines, and enjoy everything that makes Chamonix the heart of alpine skiing. |
I skied the Vallée Blanche with Caspar and had the most amazing day of skiing I've ever experienced! He picked out lines in the fresh powder that felt challenging but manageable for me, and made sure the whole day was safe and fun. Thank you for the best day! Louise S.
WHERE SHOULD I BASE MYSELF?
Chamonix is the perfect base for off piste skiing. From here we can easily access all the lift systems in the Chamonix Valley, Saint Gervais, Les Contamines, and of course, ski the Vallée Blanche.
WHEN CAN I go off-piste skiing?
It's always conditions dependent, but the off-piste ski season usually lasts from January to May.
WHAT EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
To make the most of your time here you should be confident skiing red runs in variable snow and in good style. You should also have good physical fitness to be able to ski long runs in variable conditions and on back to back days.
Having a good level of fitness is key to experiencing successful and enjoyable days out in the mountains. To increase your enjoyment and success during your off-piste skiing trip we work with Apexx Endurance Coaching, who provide custom training plans written specifically for you and your goal. Get in touch with Apexx Endurance Coaching directly to start your training.
Having a good level of fitness is key to experiencing successful and enjoyable days out in the mountains. To increase your enjoyment and success during your off-piste skiing trip we work with Apexx Endurance Coaching, who provide custom training plans written specifically for you and your goal. Get in touch with Apexx Endurance Coaching directly to start your training.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The price depends on exactly what you want to do. Get in touch to let us know your plan, and we can send you a price and more information.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
The price will include an IFMGA Certified Guide. You need to cover your valley accommodation, lifts, transport, food, insurance and your guide's expenses.
what kit do i need?
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Ski Equipment
Rucsack - Medium volume (25-35 litres max) is best. Avoid extra straps etc. Just a ski carry system, ice axe attachment and helmet carry system if it doesn’t fit in the bag. Ski Poles Skis - Ski touring skis with a pin touring binding + Ski Strap Skins - Ski skins (should come with skis if you hire touring kit) Ski Crampons - Ski crampons that fit your skis and bindings Boots - Ski touring boots that are pin binding compatible TSP Transceiver - modern digital one - new batteries Shovel - no plastic blades - all metal shovels only Probe - 210 cm minimum Helmet - Ski specific helmets are best. Ski helmets are now legally mandatory in Italy if we ended up in resort or going through resort Harness - Lightweight harness with a 120 cm sling and carabiner Crampons - Lightweight crampons are often fine Axe - Lightweight axe |
Clothing
Socks - Ski specific socks Thermal/Base Layers - Thermal top and bottom. Long sleeve and with a hood can be good in sunny weather. No cotton. Technical Fleece - Technical fleece midlayer. Zippered front best for touring. Hats - Warm hat + Sun hat Gloves - Thin gloves for skinning + Warm gloves for skiing Waterproof jacket and trousers - Ski specific waterproof jacket and trousers are best Duvet Jacket - Down or synthetic duvet jacket |
Other Equipment
Sunglasses - Cat 3 or Cat 4
Goggles - Cat 3/4 for sunny days. Low light lenses for poor weather.
Suncream - Suncream and Lipbalm - SPF30 or higher
First Aid kit - Small personal kit including personal medication, blister plasters and pain killers
Waterbottle - 1 Litre (flask or waterbottle)
Lunch & Spare Food - Enough for a full day on the hill; preferably lots of snacks you can pull out of pockets easily
Wallet
Passport
Insurance documents
Mobile phone
Sunglasses - Cat 3 or Cat 4
Goggles - Cat 3/4 for sunny days. Low light lenses for poor weather.
Suncream - Suncream and Lipbalm - SPF30 or higher
First Aid kit - Small personal kit including personal medication, blister plasters and pain killers
Waterbottle - 1 Litre (flask or waterbottle)
Lunch & Spare Food - Enough for a full day on the hill; preferably lots of snacks you can pull out of pockets easily
Wallet
Passport
Insurance documents
Mobile phone