Custom Backcountry Ski Trips: California & Nevada
Ski The Sierra on Your Terms
Our custom backcountry ski trips are designed for skiers and splitboarders who want a unique experience tailored to their goals, schedule, and skill level. Whether you’re chasing powder turns, looking to link up classic Sierra descents, or interested in multi-day ski expeditions, we’ll work with you to create the perfect itinerary.
From Lake Tahoe to the towering flanks of Mount Shasta, California and Nevada’s backcountry offers an unmatched blend of accessibility, diversity, and world-class alpine terrain. With a private custom trip, you set the pace, objectives, and style—we provide the expertise, safety framework, and local knowledge to bring your vision to life.
Why Ski in California and Nevada?
The Sierra Nevada is one of the most underrated backcountry ski destinations in North America. While states like Colorado and Utah often take the spotlight, California and Nevada deliver an experience that blends big mountain landscapes, stable snow conditions, and consistent sunshine.
Iconic Terrain: From long couloirs on Mount Shasta to rolling powder fields around Lake Tahoe, the variety of terrain is immense.
Accessibility: Trailheads are often close to mountain towns, which means you can enjoy incredible skiing without multi-day approaches.
Culture & Scenery: Few places in the world let you ski above granite walls and alpine lakes with the Pacific Ocean just over the horizon.
The Benefits of Good Weather
California and Nevada are famous for their bluebird powder days. Unlike interior ranges that often trap storms and extended cloud cover, the Sierra enjoys more frequent high-pressure windows. For skiers, that means:
More Skiing, Less Waiting: Stable weather windows allow for reliable trip planning.
Safer Travel: Sunny conditions make it easier to move efficiently and evaluate terrain.
Unforgettable Views: Crisp skies and warm light highlight the beauty of the Sierra granite, alpine basins, and volcanic summits.
A Stable Snowpack You Can Trust
One of the greatest advantages of skiing in the Sierra Nevada is the maritime snowpack. Thanks to the Pacific influence:
Fewer Persistent Weak Layers: Unlike continental snowpacks, the Sierra often consolidates quickly, reducing long-lasting avalanche hazards.
Deeper Coverage: Strong storms create a solid base that allows for big objectives well into spring.
Seasonal Longevity: From early winter powder laps to late spring corn harvests, the ski season is long and versatile.
The Exploratory Spirit of the Sierra
The Sierra Nevada is a range that rewards curiosity. While famous peaks like Mount Shasta or Mount Tallac are well known, there are countless lesser-traveled basins, ridges, and couloirs waiting to be discovered. On a custom trip, we can:
Seek out rarely skied lines in remote corners of the range.
Design multi-day traverses linking hidden valleys and passes.
Balance classic objectives with the excitement of new terrain.
For adventurous skiers, this is the essence of the Sierra—a place where exploration is still alive and well.
Build Your Custom Ski Adventure
Every skier is different. That’s why we’ll work with you to craft an itinerary that matches your goals:
Single-Day Tours: Maximize your time with guided powder laps or technical couloirs.
Multi-Day Hut or Camping Trips: Immerse yourself in the backcountry with nights under the stars or in cozy huts.
Skills Development: Combine your adventure with focused instruction in ski mountaineering, avalanche safety, or expedition travel.
Contact us today to start designing your California or Nevada backcountry ski trip. Whether it’s a single-day objective or a week-long expedition, we’ll help you experience the best of the Sierra on your terms.