Head Into The Backcountry

Backcountry skiing offers an escape from the crowds
and a chance to enjoy hidden powder stashes, solitude,
and unparalleled natural beauty. Andrä Aste knows about the magic of backcountry skiing as well as the risks that come with it.

Andrä Aste is head of the Obergurgl Ski School where certified and dedicated ski and mountain guides can help you experience the mountain like a local. Explore Obergurgl-Hochgurgl’s vast off-piste terrain, find secret powder stashes and enjoy the backcountry ski day of a lifetime!

Protective Gear is a Must.

Experience Matters

Good skiing skills are a prerequisite for safe backcountry skiing. We start the day with an evaluation of participants’ skiing skills. Like with any outdoor activity, there are risks involved with backcountry skiing, and it is our responsibility and top priority to keep everyone safe”, explains Andrä.

Riml Sports Keeps You Safe

Avalanches are not the only dangers of off-piste skiing. Other hazards include sharp rocks buried in the snow, tough-to-ski
spring snow, slippery-icy conditions, and a lack of experience. Never leave home without your standard avalanche safety
equipment! It consists of the following:

  • Beacon (avalanche transceiver)
  • Avalanche backpack with shovel and probe
  • Avalanche airbag
  • First aid kit

Beacons and avalanche backpacks are available for rent at Riml Sports.

Protective Gear is a Must

When heading into the backcountry, protective gear is a must in addition to your standard safety equipment. “Helmets and back protectors are essential pieces of equipment for any freerider. It’s also a good idea to pick a route where you have cell phone reception”, says Andrä. If in doubt, ask a ski guide. “Also, bring a backpack with a fully charged phone, spare clothes, sun protection, water and food”, adds Andrä.

Interested in exploring the backcountry? Hire a ski guide or join freeride class of the Obergurgl Ski School. The essential safety equipment can be rented at all Riml Sports stores.

Riml Sports Shops

Riml Sports Hochgurgl
Hochgurglerstraße 16, 6456 Hochgurgl
0043 50 311 300

Riml Sports Pirchhütt
Gurglerstraße 121, 6456 Obergurgl
0043 50 311 500

Riml Sports Kressbrunnen
Kressbrunnenweg 6a, 6456 Obergurgl
0043 50 311 900

Riml Sports Obergurgl Zentrum
Piccardweg 5, 6456 Obergurgl
0043 50 311 100

Riml Sports Längenfeld
Hauptstraße 47, 6444 Längenfeld
0043 50 311 400

Outlet Ötz
Hauptstraße 49, 6433 Ötz
0043 50 311 800

Riml Sports Telfs
Michael-Seber-Straße, 6410 Telfs
0043 50 311 200