Freeride technique course in Almaty and Ridder
December — April
Almaty (Shymbulak, Ak-bulak, Oi-Qaragai) and Ridder (Stardust and Edelweiss ski resorts)
This programme can be conducted as a one-day or multi-day course. It will improve your ability to ride confidently off piste and tackle a wide variety of terrain and snow conditions.
The course has been specifically designed for skiers who want to further improve their backcountry riding. We select the locations and routes based on the abilities of the group and the prevailing weather and snow conditions. The course is led by experienced ski instructors who are working with skiers of different levels in different ski resorts. We’ll focus on honing your freeride technique, and giving you the skills to tackle anything the backcountry can throw at you.
Course duration: 4 hours per day
One-day course cost: €140 per day for a group of 1-2 people
The cost includes: 4 hours of instruction on the mountain in a small group or individually; avalanche safety equipment rent (beeper, probe, shovel) if needed.
Participants will need to purchase lift passes themselves (the cost will vary depending on the location).
Number of participants: up to 4 people per instructor
Customization: Our team is flexible, and will be happy to create a special course on conditions and dates which are convenient for you.
We're here to help you to grow and develop your abilities, and to ensure you have fun while you’re doing it!
We can start the course with a reminder session on avalanche safety equipment and techniques if needed. As with everything we do, safety is paramount. The cost includes rental of transceiver, shovel and probe.
Available locations in Almaty:
Shymbulak Mountain Resort
Shymbulak is the most developed and easily accessible resort around Almaty, as well as the most expensive. The resort itself is located at an altitude of 2,260 metres, with a series of modern gondola lifts taking you up to the Talgar Pass at 3,163.
Ak-bulak Mountain resort
Ak-bulak is located 40 kilometers from the city and offers the best ungroomed black pistes. No lift queues, no crowds, and a big selection of lift-accessible terrain to choose from. If you come here on a week day, chances are you’ll have the place to yourself.
Available locations in Ridder:
Stardust or Edelweiss resorts are located within a 30-minute drive of the city. Rope tow lifts operate at the resorts, opening up a wide range of slopes for freeride technique lessons.
You will need:
– Skis that are suitable for freeride;
– Backpack;
– Helmet;
– Warm clothes (waterproof outer shell, fleece, down jacket in case of cold weather);
– Goggles (ideally with lenses for bright and flat light);
– Sunscreen;
– Head torch;
– Thermos (optional);
– Individual snacks.
