Introduction to Touring

Keen to get into Backcountry Touring but don't quite know where to start? This One Day Course is aimed at all skiers and snowboarders who are curious to see what's outside the boundaries of the ski areas.

One Day course with Anna Keeling Guiding

Chill has offered an Introduction to Touring Day in cooperation with Anna Keeling Guiding since 2017. For everyone who wants to get into Touring - this class is a great way to set yourself up for our Craigieburn Haute Route or Snow Safety Course.

Anna Keeling Guiding will provide an experienced guide who will lead you through the day. Starting from a Craigieburn Range ski area you will get all the tips and tricks for traveling efficiently in the backcountry, learn how to use your equipment and how to find your way to the top and over ridgelines.

This one day course is for strong intermediate skiers who are capable of skiing off-piste in most conditions. You should be capable of comfortably hiking up 300-400m in one go (think Rapaki track or the Bridle Path in Christchurch). At the base area you’ll be instructed in how to pack your pack, use your snow safety equipment and how to use your touring equipment (boots and bindings). Then it's out into the backcountry for 1-3 runs depending on weather, conditions and group desire.

2023 Dates: Introduction to Touring (ITT)

ITT 1 - 28 July

ITT 2- 4 August

Timing:

8.30am-4.30pm

2023 Price: $285 per person

This covers the course cost only and not transport or gear hire. Please indicate on your registration if you would like us to organise these on your behalf and we will contact you with more information. Back country equipment (skins, bindings with releasable heels or split boards) are required. (We welcome split boarders but snowboarders using snow shoes should contact us first).

Back Country Alpine Gear

All touring gear can be sorted through Chill, including snow shoes, touring poles, skins, snow study kits, alpine backpacks, transceivers, shovels and probes available for sale and hire. Plus we can book your skis, boots and touring bindings, and split boards for hire.

Cancellation Policies:

- If you cancel 21 days or less prior to the course start there is no refund.  No refunds or reschedules will be provided in the event of injury, illness (including Covid-19), equipment failure, lack of fitness, or ability.

- If you cancel more than 21 days prior to start you can apply for a full refund less a 15% admin fee. Processing fees are non-refundable.

- If the course is postponed due to weather conditions on day one, a refund or another course will be offered.

- A course can be postponed by Chill if there is not enough interest/confirmed bookings.

Please note: Chill will confirm in the week prior to the course whether the course is on as scheduled or not. If the course is cancelled, due to weather conditions or not enough participants, you can either apply for a refund or book for another course later in the season. Processing fees are not eligable for refunds. 

Our Cancellation Policies are subject to change, please contact us if you have any questions by emailing explore@chillout.co.nz or phone us on 03 365 6530.

To avoid paying the processing fee, you can pay via bank transfer. In the checkout process, select "Bank Deposit" as your payment method and please transfer the cost of the course into our bank account.