Backcountry Skiing in Mongolia: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Mongolia is a country in East Asia that shares a southern and eastern border with China and a northern border with Russia. Considered one of the birthplaces of skiing, the Altai Mountains along the western border are a destination that ski fanatics enjoy visiting at least once in their lifetime. The terrain here requires a high skiing proficiency and quality backcountry experience. Southern Mongolia includes the Gobi Desert, one of the iconic geographical features of the country. The capital is located slightly northeast of central Mongolia, so getting to the mountains will require air, train, or bus travel. Check visa requirements for entry from your country of origin.

Unique Culture!

Mongolia really is unlike anywhere else on Earth. A ski touring trip will include amazing snowy conditions and marvelously long runs, but that is just the beginning. You can tour the countryside by horseback and, for better or worse, wooden saddle, canoe down one of the stunning eastern Onon River on the Steppe, visit a reindeer herder or take a camel expedition in the Gobi Desert. The captivating people of Mongolia will reward you with a once in a lifetime experience that will resonate far beyond a great trip up and down the mountain.

Remote Beauty!

Outside of Ulaanbaatar, you won't run into too many cars. In fact, outside of the capital, you won't find any cities with a population over 100,000 people. You will enjoy the peaceful countryside with the thrills of skiing away from crowds and resorts. One of the perks of the isolated charm of Mongolia is that, when you do come to villages and towns, you will immerse yourself in the life of an incredible historic culture for an added level of beauty.

Birthplace of Skiing!

The Altai Mountains of Mongolia are considered the flagship site of skiing, along with Russia and Norway. The terrain here was created for ski touring and snow access, just like skiing was created for Mongolia. Dating as far back as the last Ice Age, the Tuvan people of the region have allegedly been skiing here for more than 4,000 years. Skiing the backcountry in the birthplace of the sport is a pretty sweet accomplishment to add to your resume.

Mongolia is notoriously sunny with extreme weather depending on the season and location. Summers are hot and winters are cold, which can also be affected by the Gobi Desert in the south and the Altai to the west. The harsh climactic conditions are known as "zud."

Mongolian

Mongolian togrog (MNT)

Flights into the capital, Ulaanbaatar, are available from Hong Kong, Beijing, Tokyo, Moscow, Singapore, Frankfurt, and, in summer, Berlin. Though possibly difficult to find, there are domestic flights to almost all of the country's provinces. The Trans-Siberian Railway passes through Ulaanbaatar, so you can also make your way to Moscow, Vladivostok, or Beijing via the train. Developed roads are still being made throughout the country, but cars and buses can also be used to travel within Mongolia. To get to the Altai, you will need to head west. Confirming travel reservations can be difficult if not planned ahead.

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Winter is the best time to visit Mongolia for backcountry skiing, with January and February offering the best ski touring conditions.