We’ve compiled a list of the best places to find off piste skiing – so what are you waiting for?

Chamonix, France

As one of the biggest ski resorts in the Alps, you’d expect Chamonix to have some thrilling off piste skiing – and it doesn’t disappoint. It is renowned for its vast off piste terrain, especially The Grand Montets and La Vallee Blanche. Choose from a range of powder runs featuring tree skiing, wide steep slopes and glacier systems. Another advantage of Chamonix is that it has off piste options for all abilities. Of course, all of these fantastic routes sit beneath the majestic backdrop of Mont Blanc, making the ride even more enjoyable.

Fierberbrunn, Austria

This ski area has a reputation as a freeride destination, as more and more off piste ski terrain gets discovered. Fierberbrunn is a fairly small resort but has a lot to offer when it comes to off piste runs. Some of the most interesting terrain actually requires hiking or traversing to make it accessible, so you know you’ll almost have the mountain to yourself. Visit Fierberbrunn while you can as a ‘hidden gem’ as it is bound to be made more accessible with more lifts in the near future.

Verbier, Switzerland

Feeling adventurous? Head to Verbier for some thrilling off piste routes down the back of Mont Fort and Mont Gelé. This is a great destination for off piste enthusiasts as the options are so fun and accessible. One route is famously called the Stairway to Heaven – who wouldn’t want to try that?

Gressoney, Italy

Located in the centre of three valleys, Gressoney has advanced skiers and freeriders flocking. Boasting 13 peaks over 4000m, this ski resort has more accessible off piste terrain than most. Most of it is undeveloped and with reliable snowfall, Gressoney is a powder wonderland for off piste skiers.

If you’re going off piste, make sure you’re well prepared and take advice from local mountain guides. Even experienced skiers can become involved in accidents when exploring unknown terrain, so hire a ski instructor or guide if unsure. If you plan to go, find a comfortable place to stay.

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There are several routes you can take down the Vallee Blanche, depending on your ski capability and off-piste experience. You should never underestimate the mountain, so if you’re not 100% confident descending alone in wild terrain then there is always the option of a mountain guide who can help groups through the route.

Do I Need a Guide?

The decision to hire a guide when skiing The Vallee Blanche will depend on a range of factors, including your ski level and the route you wish to take. The weather and snow conditions can also make the descent more challenging – you may get a mixture of a firm base, deep powder and icy moguls. While guides are not compulsory, many advanced skiers still hire one if they are not familiar with the route.

Intermediate skiers should only attempt the descent with a guide. If you have never tried off-piste skiing before, then it is not recommended to descend the Vallee Blanche before having some lessons and gaining experience in different snow conditions.

If you choose to go it alone, then be aware that there can be an avalanche risk and there are other dangers to know about when undertaking off-piste travel. For example, you’ll need to wear a harness in the event of a crevasse rescue.

The Routes

Classic Descent – the easiest way to ski down the Vallee Blanche which bypasses the steepest sections. Suitable for intermediate skiers, you’ll ski over glaciers through several impressive peaks.

Gros Rognon – a variation of the classic descent, still suitable for intermediate off-piste skiers.

Petit Envers du Plan – this route requires good off-piste technique as it involves some steep descents. You’ll also get to pass some awesome glacial formations.

Grand Envers – one of the most difficult but most rewarding runs in the Vallee Blanche. Only suitable for advanced skiers with complete control and off-piste experience.

Food and Refreshments

It takes all day to descend, so you need to be prepared. You can take a packed lunch, or many skiers choose to stop off at the Requin hut next to the glacier. There is also a café at the top and bottom of the routes, so there are a few options if you don’t want to have to carry food with you.

Need more information about this off-piste opportunity? Contact us before your stay and we’ll help you arrange skiing the Vallee Blanche.

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