FAQs

Have you never skied off-piste, or do you spend most of your time chasing powder ? Whatever your level, we’ve got a group for you, and a program to suit.

Off-piste beginner : I have a fairly good level of on-piste skiing, and am able to ski almost all red runs. I have no off-piste experience, but I’m dreaming of my first powder turns ! Physically I can ski a whole day without any problem at my own pace and level.

Apprentice Freerider : I’m a good on-piste skier where I can go anywhere, including black runs. I’ve already done a bit of off-piste and I turn easily if the snow is even and the slope not too steep. I’d like to improve my technique…and my confidence off-piste.

Experienced Freerider : I’m a very good skier and no piste is too difficult for me. I’ve already done a lot of off-piste skiing, and it’s what I enjoy most. I’m confident in all types of snow, but I’d like to improve my technique.

Expert : I’m a strong skier, whatever the terrain and type of snow. I can ski long freeride descents, even if they’re technically and physically demanding, or steep.

We strongly recommend skiing with touring equipment: wide skis, touring bindings and skins.

Firstly, for the quality of the skiing. Touring doesn’t always mean setting off for a long day sweating uphill. Sometimes 15 minutes of skinning and you’re in an untouched valley, which is otherwise unreachable…

Secondly, for safety : having the possibility of climbing back up with ease is a luxury you don’t want to do without, whatever the circumstances. Imagine witnessing an avalanche and not being unable to get back up to reach the person to help them…

Ski and boot manufacturers have made so much progress that the difference between touring equipment and freeride gear has become almost negligible.Ski and boot manufacturers have made so much progress that the difference between touring equipment and pure freeride gear has become almost negligible.

At Upguides, we limit group size to 6 skiers per guide.

Off-piste skiing often requires you to keep your distance, for safety or comfort. A small group means more skiing for everyone, the group moves more quickly, so that you’re more likely to be skiing than waiting your turn.

A reasonably sized group is also safer. The guide can keep an eye on everyone at all times, and communicate more effectively.

Large groups are slow, their movements tedious, and we love skiing too much to put up with that! We don’t want to end up with such a long line of skiers that we’d have trouble remembering everyone’s name !

It all starts at our morning meetings, where we discuss any problems in the snowpack and adapt our plans. All guides must be present !

The next step is to encourage you to participate in an open discussion throughout the ski day. We want groups where everyone feels comfortable talking !

We will make sure you have the right safety equipment : avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe and we strongly recommend the use of an avalanche airbag.

Upguides can provide you with this safety equipment when you reserve a trip with us. 

For skiing trips, we recommend ski touring equipment with touring bindings and skins.

If you don’t have your own touring equipment, you can rent it at one of our trusted partner stores.

The Haute Maurienne is made up of small, authentic villages.
Valcenis is the central point between the resorts of Valfréjus and Bonneval sur Arc.

Whether you’re looking for an apartment with friends close to the bars, a hotel with a swimming pool, or a cosy chalet for the whole family with a Nordic hot tub, we can help you find the accommodation that’s right for you !

We’ll be happy to share our contacts with you, so you can stay in charming places and extend your Haute Maurienne experience after skiing.

Activities for everyone, no level required.
Whether you’re a beginner, simply curious, an occasional sportsman or an outdoor enthusiast, our adventures are made for you !

All our outings are suitable for all levels. You don’t need to have any experience or be in any particular physical condition to take part: we have routes that are accessible to everyone, including children, families and groups of friends.

Mountaineering is possible too !
Contrary to popular belief, mountaineering is not just for experts. Some routes are perfectly accessible to motivated walkers with no prior technical experience. It’s a unique opportunity to experience adventure in the high mountains.

For the more experienced
And if you’re already a seasoned climber, or even a thrill-seeker, we also offer more technical routes, challenging itineraries and tailor-made outings to push your limits. Whether you want to perfect your skills or carry out a specific project, we can help you achieve your ambitions.

About canyoning
Without any major surprises, knowing how to swim is essential. Minimum age 10 years, to be confirmed with the guide.

Any special health problems, with or without medical treatment, must be notified at the time of registration.

We can tailor-make an offer for groups !

Whatever your level and your project, if your group is made up of 3 to 5 people, we can organize a tailor-made adventure, on dates to suit you.

Our group outings respect the customs and traditions of local organizations.

A special environment

Taking part in our activities means choosing adventure, challenging yourself and exploring exceptional natural environments. Some experiences can be physically challenging, even intense, and that’s what makes them so rewarding.

However, the mountains remain a wild environment, with its own risks – rockfalls, crevasses, avalanches… these natural hazards are part of what we learn to respect and manage, never underestimating them.
Our experienced guides are there to oversee and keep every trip safe, but safety is a shared responsibility, and some level of risk is always part of the adventure.

Fully embracing this experience means showing independence, respect for the forces of nature, staying alert, and respecting safety guidelines. It’s a commitment to yourself and the group. An adventure where teamwork and respect for the natural environment are essential.

All technical equipment (except footwear) is provided for the activities we offer.

We have the following equipment available for you: crampons, ice axes, helmets, harnesses, backpacks, technical clothing, canyoning wetsuits…

The Haute Maurienne is made up of small, authentic villages.
Valcenis is the central point between the resorts of Valfréjus and Bonneval sur Arc.

Whether you’re looking for an apartment with friends close to the bars, a hotel with a swimming pool, or a cosy chalet for the whole family, we can help you find the accommodation that’s right for you !

We’ll be happy to share our contacts with you, so you can stay in charming places and extend your Haute Maurienne experience.