Ski touring (or ski mountaineering, 'skimo') involves ascending slopes under your own power using climbing skins (grippy strips on the ski bases) and free-heel touring bindings, then locking the heel down to descend. It accesses backcountry terrain beyond ski resorts, offering untracked snow and wilderness. Touring demands aerobic fitness, avalanche awareness and specialist lightweight equipment. Ski mountaineering became an Olympic sport for the 2026 Winter Games, reflecting its growing popularity as both a fitness pursuit and a backcountry access method.
Key points
- Climb uphill with skins, descend on skis
- Accesses backcountry beyond lifts
- Requires fitness and avalanche awareness
- Olympic sport from 2026