Conference - Best Practices in Ski Touring / Spring Skiing

Name: Conference - Best Practices in Ski Touring / Spring Skiing
Start: 2026-08-26T00:00:00+0000
End: 2026-08-26T00:00:00+0000
Location: Espace Albaron

Bessans

Ski touring—also known as spring skiing—is another form of skiing. This activity embodies discovery, adventure, authenticity, and freedom. Come learn about the best way to ski safely.

Description

Ski touring / Spring skiing is an activity that allows:
- to escape the crowds at ski resorts and lift lines
- to discover pristine landscapes
- to enjoy a powder descent
- an environmentally friendly activity
Ski de Randonnée / Spring skiing is all about climbing to summits and passes, making your mark in a pristine world, and descending into untracked terrain
Ski touring / Spring skiing, like mountaineering, is a traditional physical activity characterized by a shared culture, an art made up of knowledge (knowledge of the high-mountain environment, history, practice, and associated values), and know-how (mastery of alpine skiing techniques, climbing and belaying, use of equipment: ski touring, sealskins, knives, rope, ice axe, and crampons). It is characterized by the indispensable acquisition of varied knowledge of the natural and undeveloped environment (snow, altitude, glaciers), changing climatic conditions, and an appreciation of random natural events (avalanches, storms, etc.).
The culture of ski touring / spring skiing is also rooted in aesthetic values, as ski tourers are drawn to the beauty of the routes, the elegance of movement during ascent and descent, the contemplation of landscapes, and a sense of communion with the natural environments they traverse. The practice also embraces ethical principles based on personal commitment, resource efficiency, leaving no trace behind, measured risk-taking, and a duty of mutual aid and assistance among practitioners. Style and sensory experience often take precedence over the successful ascent of a summit, pass, or traverse.

The Bessans Bonneval-sur-Arc area, which has been awarded the "Terre d'Alpinisme UNESCO" label, offers exceptional terrain for ski touring and spring skiing. High Mountain Guide Jean Louis Bernezat once said that the Avérole valley was one of the most beautiful spots for ski touring.