Alpine touring, also known as ski touring or backcountry skiing, is a type of skiing that involves skiing in the backcountry, away from groomed ski runs and ski resorts. It typically involves using specialized equipment, such as alpine touring skis, climbing skins, and alpine touring bindings, to ascend and descend mountain slopes in the backcountry.
Alpine touring involves using a sliding motion to propel oneself forward, and it can be done on a variety of terrain, including groomed trails, open fields, and rolling hills. It is generally more physically demanding than Nordic skiing, as it involves a higher level of impact and a more uneven distribution of weight on the body.
Alpine touring offers the opportunity to explore and enjoy the beauty of the mountain environment in the winter, and it allows skiers to access backcountry terrain that is often inaccessible during the summer. It can be done alone or in a group, and it can be a challenging and rewarding activity for experienced skiers.
However, alpine touring also involves additional risks and challenges compared to resort skiing, such as the risk of avalanches, the need for self-sufficiency, and the possibility of being far from help in the event of an emergency. As a result, it is important for alpine touring skiers to be well-prepared and knowledgeable about avalanche safety, wilderness survival, and other essential skills.
Overall, alpine touring is a challenging and rewarding activity that requires a high level of skill and fitness, as well as specialized equipment and knowledge. It offers the opportunity to explore and challenge oneself in a unique and challenging environment, and it is an exciting and rewarding activity for experienced skiers.