Course Content:

• Avalanche prevention and safety basics

• Equipment knowledge and handling

• Companion rescue in avalanche scenarios

• Uphill skinning technique (including kick turns)

• Track setting and group movement

• Orientation and navigation in alpine terrain

• Tour planning and decision-making

• Off-piste skiing or snowboarding technique

• Beautiful descents in alpine terrain

Requirements:

• Ski/snowboard technique: You must have solid off-piste skills.

• Fitness: Endurance for long descents and climbs up to 3 hours / 800 vertical meters.

Note: If technical ability is clearly insufficient, the mountain guide reserves the right to remove a participant from the course for safety reasons.

Course Location:
Engelberg / Central Switzerland

Detailed Program:

Day 1 – Avalanche training & tour planning with a short ski tour

• Meet at the mountain guide office in Engelberg

• Gear check and equipment adjustments

• Transfer to the ski touring area

• Briefing on location, group, and course objectives

• Practical training based on course content

• End of day around 4:30 pm

Overnight stay:
Choose your own accommodation in Engelberg or return home for the night.

Day 2 – Full application tour with coaching

• Morning meet-up and gear check

• Full-day ski tour with real-time coaching and practical training

• Course ends around 4:30 pm

Price:
The price includes tour planning, guiding by a certified mountain guide, and all guide-related expenses.

Not included: Personal transport, lift tickets (if applicable), meals, and accommodation.

What’s the difference between the Intro and Basic Ski Touring Courses?

The Intro Course is designed for first-timers who want to take their very first step into the world of ski touring. Together we’ll explore what’s needed to go on a tour, learn useful tips and tricks for the ascent, assess the avalanche situation, and plan a simple first route.

The Basic Ski Touring Course is aimed at those who want to start planning and undertaking ski tours independently. We go into more depth on tour preparation and avalanche risk assessment. On the second day, everything you’ve learned is put into practice on a full tour.

Is the course also suitable for splitboarders?

Absolutely! We’re happy to welcome splitboarders. Splitboards are available for rent if needed.

What happens in bad weather?

Ski tours can usually take place in almost any weather. We’ll adapt the course to the conditions and make the most of the day.

Where does the course take place?

You’ll receive the exact location a few days before the course. On the first day, we’re usually in Engelberg. On the second day, we often tour in the Bannalp/Brisen region – or wherever the best snow is!

Where do we eat lunch?

If we’re in a ski area, we’ll usually stop at one of the great mountain restaurants. On full touring days, please bring your own packed lunch. You’ll receive detailed info in the pre-course email.

Standard Equipment

• Warm winter clothing

• Insulated jacket

• 2 pairs of gloves

• Hat/beanie

• Helmet

• Ski goggles

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Snacks for the day

• Water bottle

• Backpack (approx. 30L)

Technical Equipment

• Touring skis or splitboard

• Climbing skins

• Ski crampons

• Touring ski boots / snowboard boots

• Poles

• Avalanche transceiver (beacon)

• Probe

• Shovel