The Western Faces
The Western Faces are one of Australia’s premier skiing destinations. They provide lengthy, untouched lines against rolling blue hills and endless vistas. This tour is a bucket list item for any backcountry skier in Australia. It requires prior backcountry experience and higher-than-average fitness. Follow our K7 Guides to learn the techniques and local knowledge to ski the Western Faces for years.
The Western Faces | Skiing Splitboarding Long-Day Tour
Tour Overview
The Western Faces hold some of the steepest terrain in the Australian Backcountry and should be approached with caution and prior experience. Fortunately, the K7 Team has been navigating this terrain safely for years and can teach you local tips, techniques, and essential knowledge for venturing into steeper zones.
Starting at Guthega, the approach to the Western Faces requires 2-3 hours and an elevation gain of over 650 meters. From there, K7 Adventures will guide you to the best zones based on current conditions, with each run offering approximately 400 meters of elevation loss.
These are challenging days that demand high fitness and advanced riding abilities. For those up to the challenge, you'll finish this tour with just one question: "When can we go back?"
Learning Outcomes
•Identify the different zones of the Western Faces and learn which aspects to ski and when they come into condition.
• Practice steep skinning techniques.
•Use crampons and ice axes in combination with a Ski/Splitboard carry technique to ascend steep terrain where skins become less efficient.
•Assess slope stability and safety.
•Dial in efficient movement on skis/board through various mountain terrains, including ascents, descents, and traverses, maximizing energy conservation and minimizing fatigue.
Whats Included:
• Qualified and Experienced Snowy Mountains Backcountry guides
• All first aid/emergency gear
• Avalanche safety equipment will be provided.
• Crampons and Ice Axes
Solo Traveller Enquiries
If you are a solo traveller looking to join this tour and form a group, please send an enquiry with your preferred dates, and we will inform you of the available options.
Can I Join This Tour?
Experience: Upper Intermediate backcountry experience is necessary.
Riding Ability: Advanced, must be able to link turns on steep variable snow conditions.
Fitness:
Peak Degree of Fitness. We customise all tours to your group’s fitness level.
Distance: 15-25 km
Elevation gain: 1250m+
