Backcountry Skiing in Rogers Pass

There’s a reason why Rogers Pass is known as the backcountry skiing capital of Canada. The long winter season, combined with staggering annual snowfall, leaves the area coated in deep, dry powder that begs to be skied. Reach alpine in an hour from your parking spot along the Powder Highway, allowing for a full day of powder chasing in the Selkirk Mountains. Take your pick and stay overnight in a historic, all-season backcountry hut or cozy up to a wood-burning stove after crushing steeps. Due to permits, restricted areas and avalanche danger, guides are helpful for visitors new to the area.

November to January usually brings lots of snow and bottomless tree skiing. February and March are prime, with deep snowpack and endless powder.

Rogers Pass is best for intermediate to advanced skiers only, who can safely descend in various snow conditions while carrying the weight of a backpack. Glacier National Park is beautiful year-round, and nearby Revelstoke offers plenty of terrain for beginners to ski tour. 

Rogers Pass is part of the Winter Permit System, which all skiers, spitboarders and snowboarders must abide by in order to safely enjoy this destination. Your guide will take care of all permits required, but in instances where there are additional requirements, your guide will let you know what those are prior to booking.

Services can be limited to anyone 19 years of age or older. Age restrictions can be waived if the legal guardian is present and skill level is appropriate for everyone in the party. Contact us for more details on specific adventures — we’ll answer all your questions and let you know the options available for your whole party.

Private tours can be arranged for groups of any size. For parties larger than six, additional guides are recommended to improve the ability for instruction and as a safety precaution.

Each guiding service sets its own cancellation policy. All policies regarding cancellation, rescheduling and trip insurance will be clearly laid out by your guide prior to booking your adventure. Contact us if you’d like more information on a specific adventure.

Inclement weather and unexpected storms are normal in British Columbia. In most cases, if you’re prepared with the right gear, a little bad weather won’t stop the fun. But, if Mother Nature hits you with an unexpected curveball, your guide will know the best course of action to take, determining whether it’s safe to move forward with the trip, switch to a different local spot, or reschedule your adventure for a more favorable day. Prior to booking, your guiding service will provide you with all the details you need to know. 

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the closest airport to fly into. From there, Glacier National Park and Rogers Pass are accessible by car or charter bus via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) in just under four hours.

• • Alpine tour skis, ski boots and collapsable poles (can be rented)
  • Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood
  • Ski pants (Gore-tex recommended)
  • Synthetic or wool base layers, underwear and socks
  • Down jacket or vest
  • One triple-action locking carabiner or two conventional locking carabiners
  • Ski Crampons for March-May ski tours
  • Either 35-45 litres daypack or up to 60 liter pack for overnight touring
  • Repair kit and Leatherman for your equipment (can be shared between several people)
  • Safety equipment (can be rented):
    • Digital, 3-antenna avalanche transceiver
    • Lightweight snow shovel
    • Avalanche probe
    • Harness for glacier travel
  • In most cases, a guiding service can set you up with the equipment and technical gear you need to adventure safely. Prior to your trip, your guide will let you know what equipment you’ll need to bring and what can be provided.