High in the Caucasus Mountains, Ski touring in Gudauri offers one of the most thrilling winter adventures for skiers seeking both challenge and untouched terrain. With deep snow, wide open slopes, and breathtaking alpine scenery, Gudauri provides ideal conditions for touring ascents and long, rewarding descents. Its combination of modern infrastructure, diverse terrain, and easy access makes it a standout destination for those looking to elevate their mountain experience.
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Backcountry skiing in Gudauri
At the same time, backcountry skiing Gudauri invites you to step beyond the resort boundaries and immerse yourself in a world of silence, fresh powder, and true wilderness. Guided by experienced professionals and surrounded by countless off-piste routes, each day brings a new and exciting objective. Gudauri is where skiers of all levels can discover their perfect line and enjoy the pure freedom of the mountains.
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Experience Ski touring in Gudauri with a Special Rate
For travelers who prefer to enjoy the resort and stay on the groomed slopes, we offer a special on-piste skiing package for just $900, making it a more economical option while still providing full access to Gudauri’s modern lifts and extensive ski terrain. The standard price for the full program is $1,200, but this reduced rate allows piste skiers to join the same trip, share the group experience, and enjoy all the comforts at a lower cost.
Program Highlights
- Explore the slopes of Georgia’s most famous ski resort – Gudauri
- Choose your style: ski the resort or join guided ski touring ascents
- Daily options for both piste skiers and backcountry adventurers
- Avalanche safety training & guided freeride sessions
- Cultural extension in Tbilisi on the final day – city sightseeing & farewell dinner
Trip Overview
High in the Greater Caucasus, Gudauri is Georgia’s premier ski destination – a paradise for both piste enthusiasts and backcountry explorers. With reliable snowfall, modern lifts, and surrounding peaks rising above 3,000 m, this region offers endless options.
Our 7-day program is designed for mixed groups: those who prefer the comfort of the ski resort, and those eager to venture off-piste with skins and touring gear. Every day, you can choose your path – stay on the lifts and enjoy long groomed runs, or join the guides for a ski touring ascent to untouched powder.
By combining flexible skiing, expert guidance, and authentic Georgian hospitality, this adventure blends the thrill of the mountains with the warmth of local culture.
Chrdili – 2,504 m
Reaching the summit of Chrdili (2,504 m) was the perfect way to begin the adventure, with wide-open terrain that made the climb enjoyable and the descent smooth and flowing. This mountain offered an ideal balance of challenge and comfort, helping build confidence while delivering stunning alpine views and long ski lines through untouched snow.
Sadzele (Princess Mountain) – 3,258 m
The highlight of the tour was ascending Sadzele, also known as Princess Mountain (3,258 m), a true crown jewel of Gudauri ski touring. From the summit, endless panoramic views of the Caucasus surrounded us, and the sense of achievement was unforgettable. The descent from Sadzele was pure adrenaline, with pristine slopes and breathtaking scenery making it a moment to remember.
Experience Ski Touring in Mestia This Season
Visit Gudauri Panorama viewpoint
The Panorama viewpoint is a highlight of your ski tour, offering stunning 360° views of snow-covered peaks and valleys. It’s the perfect spot to pause, take photos, and soak in the beauty of the Caucasus Mountains.
Unforgettable Free Ride in Gudauri
Experience the pure thrill of free ride in Gudauri, where wide-open bowls, deep powder, and untouched slopes create the perfect playground for adventurous skiers. With reliable snow, stunning alpine terrain, and expert local guides who know every hidden line, each descent becomes a unique blend of speed, freedom, and adrenaline. Whether you’re carving down steep faces or floating through fresh powder, Gudauri delivers a freeride experience that stays with you long after the snow settles.
Why Choose Gudauri Ski & Touring?
- Dual options: Skiers & tourers can enjoy the same trip at their own level
- Backcountry freedom: Daily ski touring routes with 800–1,200 m ascents
- Resort comfort: Modern lifts, groomed slopes, and off-piste freeride lines
- Culture included: Tbilisi city tour & farewell dinner on the last day
- Safety first: Professional IFMGA/GMGA-certified mountain guides
Who Is It For?
This program is ideal for mixed groups of friends or families where some prefer the ski resort and others want the challenge of ski touring. No matter your choice, you’ll share the same evenings in Gudauri and enjoy a full mountain experience together.
Join us in Gudauri – where the slopes of the Caucasus meet endless powder fields, and every skier finds their perfect line.
Equipment
1. Ski & Touring Gear
Ski touring skis (lightweight, backcountry-specific)
Ski touring bindings (tech/frameless or frame bindings)
Alpine touring / ski mountaineering boots
Climbing skins (for ascending)
Ski poles (adjustable recommended)
Ski crampons (for icy slopes, optional depending on route)
Avalanche transceiver / beacon
2. Safety & Rescue
Avalanche probe
Avalanche shovel
First aid kit
Helmet
Crampons and ice axe (if crossing glaciers or steep terrain)
Whistle & signal mirror
Personal GPS / map & compass
3. Clothing
Base layers (thermal top & bottom)
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
Waterproof and windproof shell jacket & pants
Gloves / mittens (light & heavy)
Warm hat / balaclava / neck gaiter
Ski socks
Sunglasses or goggles (for snow glare)
4. Backpacks & Essentials
Ski touring backpack (with gear straps for skis)
Hydration system / water bottles
High-energy snacks / lunch
Sunscreen & lip balm
Headlamp with extra batteries
5. Optional / Extras
Camera / action camera
Trekking poles (if needed for approach)
Lightweight stove & cookware (for multi-day tours)
Personal hygiene items
Itinerary
Arrival in Tbilisi – Transfer to Gudauri (~3 hrs).
Warm-up day – Resort skiing & avalanche safety briefing.
Ski touring option (introductory route, ~800 m ascent) OR full resort skiing.
Full-day touring to nearby peak OR freeride from resort lifts.
No skiing. Early morning departure from Gudauri to Tbilisi for a full day of city sightseeing, transfer to the airport.
Gudauri is one of our favorite ski touring destinations in the Caucasus — wide terrain, deep snow, and reliable conditions make it perfect for all levels.
Do you provide all the necessary ski touring equipment, or should I bring my own?
It’s recommended to bring your own ski touring gear for the best fit and comfort. However, if you’re unable to bring your equipment, high-quality rental options are available locally in Gudauri.