Vancouver's nearby mountains are the perfect venue for experienced skiers to transition into backcountry touring.
LessWhile the runs are fairly short, Red Heather has a lot to offer beginner ski tourers. Getting to the trail head follows the Diamond Head road to Garabaldi. Follow signs from Highway 99 up to Quest University. It's recommended to have chains as the road can get pretty gnarly higher up. The trail is mostly a road through the trees. Eventually it reaches the Red Heather warming shelter. This is a good spot to stop for lunch, fix troublesome skins, or patch blisters.
Zoa is a popular ski touring area especially for those new to ski touring. The relative low risk due to trees and few slopes makes for an excellent training ground. On Clear days the ridge offers good views of more challenging terrain on Yak peak.
Symphony, Flute, and Oboe peaks roll southwards from Whistler’s bustling ski hills. Their proximity, easy access, and gentle terrain make them a popular choice for entry level ski tourers. Access is either from Symphony Chair, or from the Singing Pass Trail. When Harmony, or Symphony is closed, there is a trail that begins from behind the Harmony Snack shake that winds through the winds and access some good terrain.
With a trailhead at 1300m, the Duffey Lake Road is a popular ski touring destination for Southwest BC. Amongst it's most popular routes is Motel 66.
Ski tour up to Hanging Lake with lots of terrain to explore. Watch out for snow mobiles!
Mount Seymour's easy backcountry access makes it a popular location for beginner tourers.