ski touring & backcountry
ski touring at mt hutt
know before you go
Keen for a mission up the mountain without a lift assist or out beyond the ropes? There’s some pretty epic terrain out there.
But before you head off for a backcountry or touring blast, have a read of our safety guidelines below. The mountains don’t muck around and neither should you.
things to consider
- Hutt is a 24/7 operation, with natural and man-made hazards around the clock.
- Touring within the ski area boundary comes with serious risk so please respect all closures and follow the touring route. They’re there for good reason.
- Our Ski Patrol team is out early every morning making sure inbounds terrain is good to go. They’re also your go-to for rescues, questions, and the odd cheeky tip on where the good snow’s hiding.
- Ski Patrol are constantly monitoring conditions – wind, snowpack, temperature and when needed, they’ll be doing avalanche control work using explosives. If you see a closed sign or rope line, don’t cross it. That’s not a suggestion – it’s a safety call.
TOP TIP: The Snow Report is updated from 6:30am every morning during the operational season.
SNOW REPORT
WEATHER UPDATES
Your best source for mountain conditions
Uphill Access Route
Know the signs
On Mountain Signage
Trail difficulty ratings are relative to each ski areas specific terrain. Work your way up from easier to more difficult trails. When in doubt about a trail or what type of terrain a lift serves, ask resort staff for guidance.
Do not enter closed areas. Ropes and closures are in place for your safety.
Top Tip: Collect your MyPass Card at our kiosks or stop by Guest Services before visiting the Rentals team.
Heading beyond the boundary?
Check the latest Canterbury Backcountry Avalanche Forecast at www.avalanche.net.nz before even thinking about stepping out.
Mt Hutt Ski Area (and the Summit Six chair) offer access to some prime backcountry skiing – but only if you're doing it right. You must exit the ski area via our designated Boundary Exit gates. Cutting through closed runs or ducking ropes is not on. No exceptions.
Ski Patrol does not control the backcountry. The southwest Face and Rakaia Side of Virgin Mile are backcountry terrain and non-controlled areas where avalanches are possible.
Once you're outside the ski area boundary, you're on your own. There’s no avalanche control out there – so make sure you're clued up and kitted out.
That means:
- Avalanche transceiver (on and working)
- Shovel
- Probe
- Communication device
- Knowledge of how to use the lot
Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Better yet, swing by Ski Patrol at the top of Summit Six and sign out your intentions before heading off.
if something goes wrong
If you or someone else gets injured
- Cross your skis uphill of the person
- Note their location, clothing colour, and nature of injury
- Contact a staff member ASAP – Ski Patrol will then be with you soon for assistance inside the ski area boundary. If you are requiring assistance outside of the ski area boundary, please call 111.
On Mountain Emergency Number: 03 307 6323
Please ONLY use this number for contacting patrol for any on mountain or access road emergencies.
