Exploring the Backcountry options around Cardrona Alpine resort

After a great day checking out the Remarkables we decided to head North to Check out the Backcountry of Cardrona Alpine resort. As we drove over the Crown Range from Frankton we were excited to see the area covered with a fresh dusting of snow.

Once we made it to Cardrona Alpine resort we skinned up a mellow groomer on the side of the ski resort. Soon enough we were up the upper ridge and looking down into the bowl we would be riding.

From our vantage point we had a great view of the Southern Alps dusted in fresh snow. The snow line was on the upper slopes but within our view was a lifetime of adventure.

We were excited to be out in the sunshine and about to ride the Cardrona Backcountry in powder conditions.

For the next few hours we focused on riding the areas that the wind had deposited the good snow. There were a few other people around but it was easy to find fresh tracks.

As we skinned back up after our last run we made plans to return the next day. There was more than enough good spots to return for.

It was an exciting day seeing a new zone and sharing fun runs with Adam. The next day we met up with Jeff Chim before heading back out into the zone.

We dropped into the basin a little bit lower where there was no tracks.

Here it was a day after the snow had fallen but we were putting first tracks into an open bowl.

For the rest of the day we just recycled the good snow with a solid skin track. It was great company getting to know the Cardrona Alpine Resort backcountry.

As we skinned back up to the ski resort I was happy to be in New Zealand. I knew it was going to be a great season and I still had almost 3 months of Spring touring in front of me.

Once we made it back from the Cardrona backcountry I was introduced to one of the coolest animals in the world, the Kea. Imagine a parrot that has the brain of a 6 year old and loves causing chaos. While you are paying attention to the views these little guys are paying attention to destroying your ski gear.