Backcountry ski touring is about one thing! Untracked Lines every time!
And here at Aspiring Guides that is what we do - this ski touring trip provides a pure backcountry skiing experience far beyond the boundaries of any ski resort. Our experienced ski guides will take you to a place few skiers or boarders get to go to. You'll ski or ride terrain that might challenge you, but it will also definitely put a smile on your face. You will not find any better place to discover what making your own tracks is all about.
Check out a 360 movie of the area:
Prior to the start of the trip
Meet with your guide at our offices 5:30pm on the evening prior to departure. Your guide will check all your clothing and equipment and ensure that you have everything that is required for the 4 days of the tour. Rental equipment is issued and last minute purchases can be made. Plans are finalised for an early morning departure.
Day One
We drive to the magnificent Matukituki Valley and meet our helicopter at Cattle Flat, just past the Treble Cone Ski Area. Our backpacks are light because sleeping bags, cooking gear and other necessities will already be in the hut. There is a wide range of runs available, from the moderate angle of the South Face of Black Peak to the Escapade Chutes - there are slopes for everyone. Sometimes it is possible to fly in to the hut, drop overnight gear and food, and then get a bump to the top of the hill for the first run. What a start to the day!
Day Two
In our experience people want one thing, powder snow. Subject to the weather, we sometimes tour west to the Greenstone Trails or Rollercoaster which have the perfect aspect for cold dry snow. Other times we get no further than the slopes above the hut in our search for the deep stuff.
Day Three
With a bit of luck the weather holds and we can get out for another day on the skins, touring any of the zones on 360 degrees of aspect on the mountain. Long walk and short walks are all possible with great ski runs linking a magic day out on the hill.
Day 4
Usually due to conditions and weather the walk out from the hut is less likely to be practical. It is often best to plan for an afternoon helicopter flight out so that we can make the most of the skiing terrain near by the hut.
If weather and the groups fitness (and motivation!) permit, it is possible to ski tour out from the hut to the local ski field. Black Peak Hut is located about 7 km from the summit of Treble Cone Ski Area and it is an epic mission of a ski tour. All you need to carry is a light daypack but with over 600m descent and 850m ascent it is a big day to ski tour back to the carpark where our vehicle will be waiting with a cold beverage!
NB : Please note that this itinerary is a sample only and the actual itinerary may vary at the discretion of your guide. Weather, conditions and personal ability and needs may make changes necessary or advantageous to the participants.
Fly in to our private hut with stunning views of Treble Cone and Mt Aspiring.
Enjoy cosy accommodation for up to six - sleeping bags, good lighting, cooking equipment and outside toilet supplied. Ski tour through the heart of New Zealand's Harris Mountains with a light day pack. Make your mark on untouched slopes.
If the weather does not allow you to spend the whole trip at Black Peak then your guide will show you round some of the other great options in the area including our private Robrosa Huts in the Pisa Range or backcountry day tours accessed from local ski fields.
Availability
| Trip Date | Available |
|---|---|
| July 14th - 17th | Full |
| July 20th - 23rd | OPEN |
| July 24 - 28 | OPEN |
| July 31 - August 3 | OPEN |
| August 10 - 13 | 3 spaces left |
| August 16 - 19 | Full |
| August 20-23 | Full |
| August 26 - 29 | OPEN |
| August 31 - September 3 | OPEN |
| September 23-26 | OPEN |
| Require a minimum of 3pax to run at this price |
Pricing
| Client Ratio | Price |
|---|---|
| Private rates | |
| 1:1 | $7,250 |
| 1:2 | $3,950 pp |
| Public trip rates | |
| 1:3 up to 1:4 Group Rate 4 days | $2,750 pp |
What's included
- NZMGA qualified guide
- Helicopter Access In to and out from the hut with a drop at the peak on the first day
- all meals and energy snacks
- Cosy Private hut with Fireplace and bedding
- Avalanche Safety equipment if required
What's not included
Ski touring or splitboard rental equipment can be sourced locally
Frequently asked questions
Most of our mountaineering ascents are conducted on a 1:1 basis, so no problem there.
For all other group climbing, skiing or trekking trips, we have a 2 person minimum number to operate a trip. If you are travelling on your own, try to organise your itinerary to match up with the dates scheduled for the course or trip listed on our website.
If you can't join a trip on our scheduled dates: then you have two options:
1. Book a private 1:1 trip for any dates you wish or we can book you as a single and we will try to match others to your dates.
2. If we cannot find at least one other person for the dates you want, one month before the start date we will give you a full refund or offer you an alternative trip 1:1 for a fewer number of days.
Generally our winter trips are based from a hut. Most days there is only need for lunch, snacks, water, camera, and a jacket. When relocating or touring out, you may need to carry 10-15kg which includes personal gear and some food.
Equipment Detail
You guys are JUST THE BEST! Skiing untracked powder snow where you earn the turns. A truly wilderness experience yet so close to Wanaka. High class authentic NZ experience....read more
Graeme, New Zealand, Backcountry Ski Touring
Black Peak
