Safety for ski tourers
On a ski touring adventure, your legwork is rewarded with stunning views and thrilling descents. Still, the most important aspect is making sure you get home in one piece – so you can get back out there the next day. This is how you stay safe when ski touring in Norway.
Ski tourers from all over the world love Norway's challenging ski terrain, weather conditions, and sub-zero temperatures – it's everything you need for an adrenaline-filled adventure in the snow-capped mountains.
It is, however, important to be aware of the potential dangers that these conditions present. Here are our best and most important tips on how to stay safe while ski touring.
Prepare for changing conditions
You should always check the avalanche risk and plan your trips according to the weather and conditions. Make sure you get familiar with the nine simple rules of the Norwegian mountain code to help you stay safe.
- Always start planning your trip at the avalanche forecast varsom.no.
- Download the REGOBS-app from App store or Android store. With REGOBS, you can share and access information about local conditions with other people, as well as download an offline inclination map.
- Stay updated on the weather conditions in your area with yr.no and senorge.no.
Hire a qualified local ski guide
Ensure that you find the best and safest ski touring options in the area by hiring a local ski guide.
Norway has a complex geography with fast shifting weather patterns, which can make it difficult to unlock the full potential of the current skiing conditions. Local guides have expert knowledge about the quality of the snow and the surrounding terrain, which will reduce the risk of encountering avalanches and other potential dangers.
The International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) offers more than 100 qualified mountain guides who will assure that you find the perfect trip for your level of fitness, skill, and ambition.
What to bring
It can be demanding to reach the best slopes, and it is therefore crucial to pack as light as possible (in a good backpack) without compromising any of the essentials (see the list of what to bring). Before setting off:
- Test and familiarize yourself with the emergency equipment.
- Remember to pack spare parts in case of breakages along the way.
What to wear
The saying “there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing” is common in Scandinavia, and this is particularly true when it comes to ski touring.
Dress in layers
The best advice is to wear many layers, as this makes it easier to regulate your body temperature.
- A tight-fitting base layer made of wool will keep you cool on the uphill and warm on the descent.
- A wool or fleece middle layer will help you stay warm.
- Light wind and waterproof jacket and trousers as an outer layer will protect you from the elements.
Wear good boots
You need boots specifically designed for ski touring. They should be comfortable and allow good freedom of movement for walking as well as provide stability for skiing.
Use sun protection and snow goggles
You will be surrounded by snow, but the sun can be surprisingly strong. Bring sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect your skin, and shaded snow goggles or sun glasses.
Ski touring gear checklist
Stay safe
Watch the videos below to get more tips on how to stay safe in the mountains.
Plan your ski touring adventure
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See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.