For ski enthusiasts seeking adventure beyond groomed slopes, Sarikamis Ski Touring offers an unparalleled backcountry experience in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey.
Over four days and three nights, participants can explore pristine powder fields, forested slopes, open valleys, and panoramic ridge lines under the guidance of IFMGA-certified instructors.
This ski touring program is designed for beginner to advanced skiers who want to develop their off-piste skills, improve uphill skinning techniques, and navigate varied terrains safely.
With slope-side accommodation and half-board meals included, the camp ensures comfort alongside adventure, allowing skiers to focus entirely on their training and exploration.
Each day, the guides select routes based on snow quality, weather conditions, and participant skill levels, guaranteeing a tailored and safe experience. In addition to technical skill development, Sarikamis Ski Touring immerses participants in the stunning landscapes of pine forests, volcanic ridges, and untouched high-altitude snowfields, offering both physical challenge and breathtaking scenery.
Sarikamis Ski Touring – Quick Facts
Difficulty Level: 🟡 Beginner–Intermediate / 🟠 Advanced
Age Range: 18 – 55 years
Group Size: 7 – 14 participants (guided by IFMGA-certified instructors)
Accommodation: 3 nights in slope-side hotel / guesthouse
Best Season: December – March (stable snow conditions, powder availability)
Trip Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Focus: Off-piste ski touring around Sarikamis, outside official pistes.
Note: If weather or snow conditions are unfavorable, the ski touring program may be replaced with an on-piste alpine skiing program.
Trip Overview
Sarikamis Ski Resort in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey, is not only a beautiful on-piste destination but also offers exciting backcountry ski touring routes for those seeking adventure beyond groomed slopes. The surrounding terrain includes gentle forested slopes, open valleys, ridge lines, and remote powder fields – suitable for different skill levels.
All ski touring routes are guided by IFMGA-certified instructors, ensuring safety and technical support. Participants experience varied terrain, pristine snowfields, and the stunning landscapes of pine forests and volcanic ridges.
Important Note: The exact touring route is not fixed. It is determined by your guide based on weather conditions, snow quality, and the group’s skill level. Routes may change daily to maximize safety and enjoyment.
Sarikamis Touring Routes – itinerary
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- Forest Slopes Route
Terrain: Pine forests adjacent to the main piste
Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate
Guide: IFMGA-certified instructor
Access: 5–10 min from ski lifts; short uphill approach
Best Season: December – February (stable forest snow)
Highlights: Gentle powder runs, scenic wooded descents - Open Valley Descent
Terrain: Wide, open valleys with soft powder
Difficulty: Intermediate
Guide: Required
Access: Short ski from resort base, possible skinning uphill for 15–20 min
Best Season: December – March
Highlights: Smooth, long runs, ideal for practicing turns and speed control - Hilltop Ridge Line
Terrain: Ridge lines with panoramic views of mountains
Difficulty: Advanced
Guide: IFMGA-certified guide mandatory
Access: Moderate uphill skinning 30–40 min
Best Season: January – March
Highlights: Exhilarating ridge skiing, combination of powder and firm snow - Edge of the Resort
Terrain: Terrain at the boundary of resort area
Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate
Guide: Recommended
Access: Easy access via lifts or short uphill trek
Best Season: December – March
Highlights: Less crowded, perfect for relaxed touring near resort - Remote Powder Fields
Terrain: Untouched high-altitude snowfields far from pistes
Difficulty: Advanced / Expert
Guide: Mandatory IFMGA-certified guide
Access: 40–60 min uphill skinning; requires good stamina
Best Season: January – March (deep powder)
Highlights: Thrilling off-piste experience, pristine snow, panoramic views
- Forest Slopes Route
Sarikamis Ski Touring Itinerary (Off-Piste)
- Day 1: Arrival – Transfer & Preparation
Morning flight from Tehran to Kars
Private transfer (~45 min) to Sarikamis ski resort
Hotel check-in, ski equipment setup, and briefing by IFMGA guide
Short warm-up ski session on gentle slopes near the resort
Overnight: Slope-side hotel / guesthouse - Day 2: Forest Slopes & Open Valley RoutesGuided ski touring on Forest Slopes Route and Open Valley DescentFocus on technique, uphill skinning, and safe descent in powderLunch break on the slopes; afternoon skiing continues on mixed terrain
Evening debrief with guide to review route options for next day
Overnight: Slope-side hotel / guesthouse - Day 3: Hilltop Ridge Line & Remote Powder Fields
Morning ascent to Hilltop Ridge Line, guided by IFMGA instructor
Descend ridge lines with panoramic mountain views
Afternoon adventure to Remote Powder Fields (for advanced participants)
Safety checks, avalanche awareness, and group coordination emphasized
Overnight: Slope-side hotel / guesthouse - Day 4: Edge of the Resort & Departure
Optional early morning touring on Edge of the Resort route
Short, relaxing runs to consolidate skills
Check-out and private transfer to Kars Airport
Return flight to Tehran via Istanbul
What’s Included
3 nights accommodation in slope-side hotel/guesthouse (half board)
Ski touring guidance by IFMGA-certified instructors
Ski pass for resort lifts as needed
Private transfers (Kars ↔ Sarikamis)
Safety equipment guidance and avalanche awareness session
Not Included
International flights (Tehran ↔ Istanbul ↔ Kars)
Personal ski equipment rental
Travel insurance with ski coverage
Meals outside hotel half-board
Important Notes
All touring routes are subject to change. Guides will select the safest and most suitable route each day based on weather, snow conditions, and group skills.
Participants should have basic backcountry ski knowledge and physical fitness.
Helmets and avalanche safety equipment are recommended.
Experience the backcountry beauty of Sarikamis, with professional IFMGA-certified guides, pristine snowfields, and off-piste skiing adventures tailored to your skill level.
Participating in Sarikamis Ski Touring ensures a unique combination of skill enhancement, adventure, and immersion in Turkey’s remarkable winter landscapes.
Over the course of the program, skiers can enjoy guided routes ranging from gentle forest slopes to exhilarating remote powder fields, gaining confidence in off-piste skiing while practicing avalanche awareness and safe backcountry techniques.
With all logistical details, including accommodation, ski lift passes, and private transfers, taken care of, participants can fully focus on mastering their skills and enjoying the slopes. The experience is ideal for those who seek to push their boundaries, embrace the challenge of diverse terrains, and create lasting memories in a pristine winter environment.
Ultimately, Sarikamis Ski Touring provides a perfect balance of adventure, professional instruction, and natural beauty, making it a must for any ski touring enthusiast looking for an extraordinary winter escape.