CHAMONIX to ZERMATT SKI TOUR

With safety the number one priority we’ll teach you how to use avalanche safety equipment and spend time practicing rescues and learning the key skills that are required if something bad happens. This includes group rescues, multiple backfilling, digging victims and some useful first aid.

But the most important thing to learn is how to avoid an avalanche in the first place. For this you need to understand the conditions, read snow profiles and perform snow stability tests. While there is a little theory to understand Snowbusters teach this in real life situations on the mountain.

In the end it all comes down to good trip planning. Avoiding potential problems – be they human, conditions or terrain – before they become an issue is paramount to staying safe.

We cover the following factors:

• Using various online and offline resources to plan an appropriate route. And asking is it both feasible and realistic?
• Gathering information about the current conditions, terrain and human factors.
• Draw the planned route onto a topographical map.
• Identify and assess cruxes (points where you are at most risk).
• Determine at what points decisions should be made and plan alternatives.
• Estimate timelines for each section and then allocate fixed times within the groups ability range.
• Finally review the entire plan thinking about what could go wrong and set up contingencies for these problems.

The Snowbusters Chamonix to Zermatt Ski Tour is much more than a classic alpine journey. The Haute Route is almost a pilgrimage for those who like to tour. But rather than just follow in others footsteps you will be part of the planning, will learn about staying safe and performing a rescue. But as with all Snowbusters trips it will also be fun, we love the mountains and will be stoked to pass some of our passion onto you.