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This is your chance to spend a winter night in a mountain hut, high above the snow line. Join us for an overnight introduction to the NZ snow covered backcountry with the security of your own guide. Using snowshoes is easy and you will be amazed at how you will be able to move around in the mountains. Flying directly out of Wanaka the helicopter will land you right at the hut where the fun begins.
Great for kids, families or anyone who wants a gentle winter backcountry experience. For fit walkers the trip ends with a snowshoe hike out to the road end (4-5 hours) but many people prefer the helicopter option back to Wanaka.
Day tours or longer tours (more than one night) are also possible - contact us for details.
The Pisa Range has gorgeous views of Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps
My overall impression was that the trip and company itself ran quite efficiently – organisation was easy and things went to plan. I gained everything I could have imagined and more from [the trip], I didn’t leave thinking ‘Geez, I wish we’d done more of this’. Everything was just in the right amount.
This is the easy way to cruise over rolling hills and experience what the backcountry touring buzz is about. You only need to carry a light day pack as all cooking supplies and sleeping bags are already at the hut. Feel free to sleep in the snowcave if you want the real Bear Grills experience!
C=confirmed to run Dates don't suit? Contact us for alternative dates.
Participants do not need previous experience. Snowshoeing is easily learned and with a little practice most people can quickly pick up the basics.
If participants wish to walk out the the road end on day two (4-5 hours) they will need a good level of fitness. The difficulty will vary according to snow conditions but there are steep hills to negotiate. For the fly in /fly out option any level of fitness is acceptable.
Helicopter flights additional - from NZ $175pp each way
Meet your guide at our offices in Wanaka, gear check and last minute questions. From here it is a short drive to Wanaka Airport where we meet our helicopter. It is a gorgeous ride into the Pisa Range with great views of Mount Aspiring and the Southern Alps. The helicopter drops us at the door to the hut where we unload the food and suplies. This moderate terrain is the perfect chance to get used to your snowshoes and adjusting to equipment. After a day exploring the local hills we settle down to a big dinner, your favorite beverage and a phenomenal sunset.
There is no need for an early start - after fresh coffee and breakfast we head down valley and into the Pisa Conservation Area. The scenery is amazing - snow covered valleys and rocky outcrops make this a journey to remember. Progress depends on the snow conditions on the day and sometimes it can be challenging. It's mostly downhill and easy cruising, but for those wanting a more "relaxed" option it is possible to helicopter out.
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