Backcountry Ski Traverses

The Pinnacle of the ski touring experience
Imagine a self-propelled backcountry ski traverse through a mountain range. We offer a variety of ski traverse experiences, from tent based to hut to hut trips. Late winter and early spring are the perfect time to capitalize on longer days, warmer temperatures and well settled snowpacks. Each year, we strap on our pack and head for an adventure or two, join us for a trip of a life time.
Human Powered
Your legs and you skis carrying you across a mountain range


Premier Backcountry Ski Traverses in Western Canada
Embark on a self-propelled journey through on of BC's spectacular mountain ranges. Late winter and early spring offer the perfect conditions for a backcountry ski traverse; capitalizing on longer days, warmer temperatures, and a well-settled snowpack is a key for sucess. Whether you are looking for a classic hut-to-hut experience or a rugged glacial expedition, join Arctos Guides for the trip of a lifetime.
Bow Yoho Traverse
The Bow Yoho Traverse is a quintessential Canadian Rockies hut-to-hut ski touring experience. This classic route runs northeast to southwest across the Continental Divide, starting at Bow Lake and finishing in the stunning Yoho Valley. Along the way, you will cross three magnificent alpine expanses: the Wapta, Yoho, and Des Poilus Icefields.
- Duration: 5-7 Days
- Accommodations: Alpine Club of Canada (ACC) Backcountry Huts
Wapta Traverse
The iconic Wapta Traverse travels north-to-south along the spine of the Wapta and Waputik Icefields. The traditional route begins at Peyto Lake, navigating over the high, glaciated crest of the Rocky Mountain Divide, before concluding at the Great Divide Lodge near Sherbrooke Lake. This premier glacier ski tour features overnight stays at four distinct ACC huts along the route.
- Guiding Ratio: Maximum 6 guests per 1 ACMG-certified guide
- Experience: Classic Canadian Rockies glacier skiing
Valhalla Traverse
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Experience the rugged and dramatic peaks of the Kootenays with the Valhalla Traverse. Renowned for its steep, alpine terrain and deep powder, this ski traverse offers a challenging and deeply rewarding wilderness experience through Valhalla Provincial Park.
- Highlights: Remote Kootenay adventure, dramatic alpine ridges, and pristine wilderness.
Why Book a Ski Traverse with Arctos Guides?
- Expert Certified Leadership: All trips are led by professional ACMG-certified guides specializing in terrain-driven objectives and elite mountain decision-making.
- Small Group Ratios: We keep our group sizes small to prioritize your safety, maximize your skiing, and ensure a presonalized backcountry experience.
Ski Traverses
Custom Objectives
We can design a trip that will suit your group's interests.
Human Powdered Adventure
Travelling by ski is an exhilarating experience
Tent Based
Big Packs and Big Adventure
Push your Boundaries
Ski Traverses aren't easy, but they are extremely rewarding.

Ski Traverses are custom trips and priced according to the objective. Please get in touch with us to discuss your ski traverse interests and we would be happy to design a trip for you.

Arctos Trip Inventory
The complete Arctos Trip Inventory



