Set deep in the Greater Caucasus, Georgia is a rising star for backcountry skiing — a place where rugged alpine peaks, ancient culture, and genuine mountain hospitality meet. The highlands of Svaneti, with their medieval towers and snow-covered ridgelines, offer some of the most spectacular terrain for ski touring and freeride adventures in the entire region. At the heart of Svaneti lies Mestia, a charming mountain town surrounded by untouched valleys and towering 4,000-meter peaks — the perfect base for a true ski touring journey.
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The Koruldi Lakes Ski Tour – A Classic in Mestia
Join our WhiteoutZone guides for a beautiful, safe, and panoramic ski tour on Mestia’s local mountain. The route begins on a forest track, continues past a few rustic huts, and opens onto a wide snow-covered plateau before climbing a scenic ridge leading to the stunning Koruldi Lakes.
This tour offers a gentle ascent, breathtaking views, and long, flowing descents on beautiful snow. It’s an ideal choice even during periods of higher avalanche risk, with safe route options available. Under stable conditions, the ascent can be extended to over 3,300 meters, offering adventurous skiers the chance to descend via the Chaladi Glacier or traverse across to the Guli Pass — both unforgettable alpine experiences.
All tours are led by IFMGA/GMGA-certified mountain guides, ensuring the highest standards of safety and expertise while exploring the best backcountry terrain around Mestia.
About WhiteoutZone
WhiteoutZone is a community of passionate mountain guides and explorers organizing premium backcountry and freeride adventures across the globe — from the wild Caucasus in Georgia, to remote peaks in Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, Kazakhstan, and beyond. Whether you’re chasing powder, altitude, or culture, WhiteoutZone takes you there — safely, authentically, and unforgettable.
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
A typical day starts from Mestia, ascending through forest tracks and past mountain huts onto a wide plateau, followed by a scenic climb to Koruldi Lakes, and finishing with a rewarding ski descent back to the guesthouses, where evenings are spent enjoying local Svan cuisine and hospitality.