The Ultimate Tien-Shan Backcountry Skiing Immersion
This 7-day expedition is designed for experienced backcountry skiers and splitboarders who want pure alpine powder without lift lines or tourist crowds. Based out of our Aksuu Yurt Lodge at 2,600m, you wake up steps away from skin tracks leading into the glaciated peaks of the Terskey Alatoo range.
Sample Daily Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Aksuu Base Meet in Karakol at 09:00 AM for gear check, avalanche transceiver function check, and briefing. 4x4 mountain transport to the snowline, followed by a guided skin (2.5 hours) into Aksuu Yurt Lodge. Evening sauna & welcome dinner.
- Days 2–3: Glades, Tree Runs & Acclimatization Laps Touring the protected Tien-Shan spruce forests and mid-mountain bowls (elevation 2,600m – 3,200m). Vert: 900m–1,100m.
- Days 4–5: High Alpine Cirques & Couloirs Pushing into the high alpine bowls above 3,500m. Long 1,200m+ descents down north-facing powder lines.
- Day 6: Big Summit Day & Farewell Banya Early morning alpine start for the peak tour of the week, rewarding 360° views across Lake Issyk-Kul and the glaciated Tien Shan wall. Evening celebratory banquet in the yurt.
- Day 7: Final Morning Descent & Transfer to Karakol Morning powder lap, pack up, ski descent down the valley to the 4x4 pickup, and transfer back to Karakol.
Group Size & Booking Policy
- Private Groups Only: Minimum 4 skiers, maximum 8 skiers.
- Solo Skiers Policy: All guided packages are organized exclusively for private group requests. If you are a solo traveler/skier, we cannot add or merge you into an existing guided group. Solo skiers are welcome to book individual yurt beds at our Jyrgalan Yurt Lodge Basecamp.
Safety Requirements
All participants must carry an avalanche transceiver (3-antenna), metal shovel, and 240cm+ probe. Certified rental sets are available if needed.