Ski touring isn’t just about fitness or gear — planning is half the experience. The mountains demand respect, and learning how to prepare properly will help you stay safe and enjoy every trip. Here’s how I go about planning a ski tour, especially in unfamiliar terrain.
Why planning matters more in the backcountry
There are no groomed slopes, no ski patrol, and no lifts out there. You’re responsible for your own safety. Conditions change fast in winter, and even a small mistake can turn into a big problem. Solid planning gives you a buffer and confidence.
My go-to sources for weather and avalanche forecasts before ski touring
I always check the avalanche forecast first. In Norway, I use Varsom.no. It gives a danger level (1–5), avalanche problems, and recommended terrain choices.
For weather, I use:
- Yr.no or Storm.no – for local conditions
- Windy.com – for wind and precipitation trends
- Sunrise/sunset times – crucial for winter trips
I check forecasts the night before, and again in the morning before I leave.
How I choose a safe route (and what I avoid)
I usually have a few tour options in mind. Here’s what I look for:
- Low-angle terrain (below 30°) if avalanche risk is moderate or higher
- Avoiding avalanche paths or terrain traps (like gullies)
- A clear way back down
- Alternate routes in case weather or snow changes
I prefer tours with gentle descents, especially early in the season or when skiing with newer friends.
What I look for on the map before heading out
I use UT.no, Gaia GPS, and Topokart. On the map, I look for:
- Elevation gain
- Slope steepness (use a gradient overlay if available)
- Safe uptracks (ridges are usually safer than gullies)
- Trees or forest cover (can offer shelter and better visibility)
I also download the map offline. Phones die quickly in the cold.
Group dynamics: Who I tour with and why it matters
Touring is not a solo sport. I try to go with:
- People I trust to speak up
- Someone with avalanche training
- A group that’s okay turning around if needed
Before we go, we agree on the plan, check beacons together, and talk about what we’ll do if something goes wrong. No ego, no pressure.
My checklist the night before every tour
- ✅ Check weather and avalanche report
- ✅ Pick a route with backups
- ✅ Tell someone where I’m going
- ✅ Charge beacon, phone, and headlamp
- ✅ Pack: skins, food, layers, first aid, navigation, safety gear
- ✅ Check gear (boots, bindings, poles, etc.)
Morning of the tour: one last check, and a quick beacon test with the group.
Final thoughts
You don’t need to be an expert to plan a ski tour — just curious and careful. With good routines, you’ll start to feel more confident reading terrain, making decisions, and having fun even on challenging days.
New to ski touring? Read: How to avoid terrain traps
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