TELEMARK & SKI TOURING
Mainly Tramping have developed a reputation over the last five seasons as the only shop in town that provides all the equipment you need for both telemark and ski touring. This year we have touring skis from Black Diamond, Dynastar and Volkl. We now do Marker touring bindings as well as the tried and tested Fritschi Freeride. Ask the team which combination is the best for your ski needs. We will also be the only stockist in Wanaka of the new Black Diamond touring boots. These boots have to be tried for you to believe just how much flex you can achieve in walk mode whilst still retaining a stiff, responsive downhill mode.
Telemark is still strong with us. This year we will be running the full range of Black Diamond bindings as well as the Black Diamond telemark boots. We also have an extensive rental fleet.
SKI TOURING OPTIONS
If you are going touring make sure you understand snow conditions and what to do in an avalanche. Each team member needs a transceiver, shovel and probe as well as spare clothing if the weather changes. Mainly Tramping has several sets of avalanche safety equipment for hire at reasonable rates, as we believe a good backcountry experience is a safe backcountry experience.
PLACES TO GO SKI TOURING AROUND WANAKA
PISA RANGE – A day trip to Kirtle Burn Hut. A great day on easy rolling hills.
TREBLE CONE - Tower Ridge and Sundance Ridge both have excellent possibilities for short and long days. Check with the ski patrol when you go and let them know when you return – they are there to help.
CARDRONA – There are numerous back bowls just off the ski field which are great to ski. Again, check in and out with the ski patrol.
BUCHANANS – This fantastic range is just on the edge of Lake Wanaka is used by the heli-ski operators, but is also great for a few days of touring. A tent is required but there is easy access with Aspiring helicopters.
Further Afield
SOUTHERN ALPS – The best bases to tour from are Pioneer hut on the Fox Glacier, Centennial Hut on Franz Joseph Glacier, and Tasman Saddle, Kelman and Murchison Huts in the Aoraki/Mount Cook area. These are glaciated areas, so alpine skills are needed.
SKI TOURING INSTRUCTION
Aspiring Guides run an extensive range of ski touring courses, from one day tours off Treble Cone to three day Pisa Range and Black Peak trips and longer courses including trips in the alps. Check out their website at www.aspiringguides.com.
