CHAMONIX to ZERMATT SKI TOUR

Touring from Chamonix to Zermatt is commonly known as the Haute Route - it is an absolute classic. First skied in 1924 by Doctor Payot and his friends it is quite possibly the world’s most famous ski touring journey.

 

These days there are multiple route options. But the classic seven day route begins in Chamonix at the foot of Mont Blanc and ends in Zermatt in the shadow of the Matterhorn. Along the way it passes through some of the Alps most spectacular scenery, crosses famous passes and through untouched wilderness.

 

We overnight in fairly basic but comfortable huts, which after a day on the mountains will feel like a home from home. While you shouldn’t expect fine dining you will be very well fed with large tasty meals.

 

The Snowbusters Chamonix to Zermatt Ski Tour is possible for intermediate and advanced tourers. You will need a good level of fitness and be capable of climbing 1000+ metres in a day. We spend up to seven hours touring each day so you need to be in good shape.

 

Ski touring is the traditional way of skiing and the only way to experience the Haute Route in winter. Not only is it a great way to explore this part of the Alps but along the way we should find plenty of untouched powder.

 

The Snowbusters Chamonix to Zermatt ski tour is led by fully certified UIAGM guides. Safety is always the top priority when touring, but we’ll also coach you along the way to help improve your touring skills and efficiency.

 

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.

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What you need to know

  1. Designed as a poor and only ski touring experience without any compromises.
  2. Make sure you are fit, confident skier. No previous free ride / ski touring experience. Get in touch with us if you have any doubts.
  3. This is a skiing trip and our number one goal is to maximize your time spent on the slope learning. Of course there is always time for après-ski beer.
  4. We want you to worry as less as possible so we are fully available to assist you in all ways possible.

Typical day

Coffee, tea, breakfast, morning yoga, jogging, ... or what ever morning routine you are use to.

6 - 8 am
8.30 am

Heading off to the adventure of the day.

Time to tour up and ride it deep and steep.

8.30 am - 5 pm
6 pm

Après-ski beer / vine. Planning the next day (avalanche forecast, route planning, ...)

Possibly meeting for communal dinner.

7 pm
8 - 9 pm

Drinks, bit of party, sleep. But it is only a suggestion ;)

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Accommodation

Shared accommodation in mountain huts.

FOOD

You will be able to purchased food in the huts. Some specialities you will need to cary though.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

You should bring your personal ski or snowboard freeride touring equipment (skis with touring bindings, splitboard, skins, telescopic poles, ...), avalanche set and ski or snowboard clothing. 

What’s included

  • 5 days guiding and coaching
  • Shared accommodation 

EXCLUDED

  • Ski / snowboard rentals
  • Travel expanses 
  • Skiing/snowboarding insurance
  • Food and drinks
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