Whistler Backcountry Skiing & Splitboarding: Gondola Access

Ride the gondola, then skin into untouched terrain.

Backcountry skiing or splitboarding near Whistler Blackcomb with a professional, local guide who leads small groups into the backcountry after a gondola ascent. The day spans eight hours of touring with short breaks for water and food. Strong intermediate skiing or riding skills in all snow conditions are required, and tours run subject to avalanche conditions.

The experience

The day starts on the gondola up the mountain. From there you skin out into the backcountry, leaving the resort lift lines and crowds behind. You spend the day touring through terrain that changes with snow and weather, moving at a pace set by the group and the conditions. A professional guide who knows the local terrain leads the way and handles all avalanche safety decisions.

You'll need strong intermediate skills. This is not a beginner run. The eight-hour commitment includes short stops to refuel and drink water, but most of the day is spent moving through the backcountry. Dress for a full winter day in changing conditions. The guide speaks English, French or Japanese depending on your booking.

What’s included

• Professional ski guide leading the tour.
• small group experience.
• gondola access to the backcountry.
• eight hours of terrain touring with short water and food breaks.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:30

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (15 and older) · Under 15: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish, French and Japanese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Mountain Skills Academy & Adventures

Is this one for you?This tour demands eight hours of continuous skinning and skiing or riding, so solid cardiovascular fitness and strong intermediate skills in all snow conditions are essential. It's built for experienced skiers and riders who want to move beyond the resort and can handle the physical pace of backcountry terrain.

Traveler reviews

4.98★★★★★★★★★★

42 verified traveler reviews

5 ★41

4 ★1

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, French and Japanese.

What's the difference between skiing and splitboarding on this tour?

Both are offered on the same tour, and you choose which one suits you at booking. Splitboards are snowboards that split into two skis for climbing, then lock back together for descents. Skis are the traditional choice for touring. Either way, you're covering the same terrain with the guide.

Do I need to bring my own ski or splitboard gear?

Gear rental is available but must be reserved well in advance. If you're bringing your own equipment, make sure it's suitable for backcountry touring and that you're comfortable with it in variable snow.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to avalanche conditions?

Tours are subject to avalanche risk, and the guide makes all decisions about terrain based on current conditions. If extreme conditions force a cancellation, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

How many people go on each tour?

Tours run as small groups with a minimum of two guests required to operate. The small group size lets the guide adjust the pace and route to match the group's ability and the day's conditions.

What should I bring or wear?

Dress appropriately for a full winter day in the backcountry with varying conditions: layers, waterproof outer shell, warm gloves and hat are essential. Bring water and snacks. The guide will have short breaks built into the day, but you'll want your own supplies as well.