One of the most popular routes for freeriding and backcountry skiing starts from Gudauri and heads to Cross Pass, where the ascent to the Bidara Ridge begins. The route is relatively safe, though steep, and the climb takes about two hours.
From the Bidara Ridge, you can either ski back down to Cross Pass or continue to Gudauri and its ski lifts. The descent to Cross Pass is steeper and longer, while the Gudauri side offers a gentler and shorter route. However, if you descend toward Gudauri, you’ll miss out on all the possibilities the other side of the mountain has to offer.
Access to the Bidara Ridge is also available directly from the resort. From the top station of the Kobi lift, it's only about a 20-minute climb. So, if you start your ascent from Cross Pass, it’s worth descending back that way to extend the run and fully enjoy the backcountry experience.
From the Bidara Ridge, you can either ski back down to Cross Pass or continue to Gudauri and its ski lifts. The descent to Cross Pass is steeper and longer, while the Gudauri side offers a gentler and shorter route. However, if you descend toward Gudauri, you’ll miss out on all the possibilities the other side of the mountain has to offer.
Access to the Bidara Ridge is also available directly from the resort. From the top station of the Kobi lift, it's only about a 20-minute climb. So, if you start your ascent from Cross Pass, it’s worth descending back that way to extend the run and fully enjoy the backcountry experience.
Itinerary:
Gudauri – Cross Pass – Bidara Ridge.
The drive from Gudauri to the start of the ski tour at Cross Pass takes about 15-20 minutes, assuming the road is clear. Sometimes, the pass is blocked by trucks or traffic is reversed, so it’s best to start early, as the road can be closed at the beginning of the ascent.
Elevation gain: Approx. 600 meters (~2 km).
Ascent time: 1-1.5 hours.
Slope aspect: Northwest.
Maximum slope angle: 39 degrees.
Gudauri – Cross Pass – Bidara Ridge.
The drive from Gudauri to the start of the ski tour at Cross Pass takes about 15-20 minutes, assuming the road is clear. Sometimes, the pass is blocked by trucks or traffic is reversed, so it’s best to start early, as the road can be closed at the beginning of the ascent.
Elevation gain: Approx. 600 meters (~2 km).
Ascent time: 1-1.5 hours.
Slope aspect: Northwest.
Maximum slope angle: 39 degrees.
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