Verbier Off-Piste Skiing: Best Runs and How to Reach Them

Are you going to Verbier and want to do off-piste skiing? You’ve picked one of the best spots in the Alps. With its vast terrain, consistent snowfall, and technical runs, Verbier offers some incredible off-piste experiences. Finding the best runs can be challenging, but in this article, we’ll go over 6 of the best off-piste runs in Verbier and how you can get to them.

‍

Top Off-Piste Routes in Verbier and the 4 Valleys

1. Col de Mines

Col de Mines is one of Verbier’s most popular off-piste runs. The access point is the same as for Vallon d’Arbi. Once you reach the col, you have a few options depending on snow conditions.

• Straight down: This is your best option on a powder day when there’s still untouched snow. It’s a straightforward descent, with a moderately steep slope that's consistent throughout.
• Traverse left or right: If it’s already tracked, you can head left or right to find fresh snow. Be careful if you go too far left—there’s a risk of avalanches from the larger overhead slopes. Adjust your line depending on whether you’re chasing powder or looking for better spring snow.

All lines lead to the Médran 1 cat track, where you can ride the blue run back down to Médran.

2. Col de Mouches ("La Mouche")

Locally known as "La Mouche", this wide open bowl is accessed from the top of the Chassoure gondola. Traverse as high as you can across the Tortin slope to get to the starting point.

• Straight down the middle: This area usually gets skied out fast, but it’s great for those who don’t want to traverse far.
• Traverse the bowl: If you’re willing to traverse to the far skier's left, you can often find untouched snow. Just keep in mind, the further you go, the steeper the terrain above you, so always assess avalanche risks.

This route eventually joins up with the flat section at the bottom of the Gentianes-Tortin itinerary, leading you back to the Tortin lifts.

‍

3. Backside Mont Fort

This is one of Verbier’s more advanced and remote off-piste routes, taking you outside of the ski area and into backcountry terrain. Backside Mont Fort features steep slopes and glaciated sections, making it suitable only for experts.

• The run starts from the top of Mont Fort. You’ll duck under the rope to access the first of the eastern bowls.
• You can either drop straight in or traverse left into a narrower bowl. Both bowls are steep and converge at the same point.
• Keep your speed as you pass through the relatively flat glacier zone (Petit Mont Fort Glacier) and head toward the frozen Grand Désert Lake. Another short, moderately steep face follows, leading into rolling terrain and then a long flat traverse near Cleuson Lake. Make sure you're on skiers right of the lake to not trigger any avalanches.

Be prepared for a long walk out and make sure to check conditions. Hiring a guide for this route is highly recommended due to the complex terrain and avalanche risk.

‍

4. Gentianes-Tortin

This is one of the easiest off-piste routes to access and sees a lot of traffic. It’s an obvious choice for those looking for an intro to Verbier’s off-piste without getting too far off the grid.

• Start at Col de Gentianes (top of the Jumbo lift). The route begins just past the Glaciers drag lifts.
• There are multiple options here. Heading to the skier’s left will take you through narrower, steeper sections, while going right offers a wide-open bowl. The right side often gets covered in moguls quickly due to traffic.
• If you’re not familiar with the area, avoid going straight down the center, as there are cliffs that are hard to see from above.

Because of its northern exposure, snow here stays in good condition for longer, but spring conditions can turn the face icy in the morning and slushy by afternoon. Timing your descent is key.

5. Stairway to Heaven

A Verbier classic. Stairway to Heaven offers reliable powder, especially in mid-winter, thanks to its north-facing aspect.

• Start at the Jumbo lift and follow the traverse towards the cliffs. You’ll see a boot pack leading up the couloir—this is your entrance to Stairway.
• After a 10-minute hike, you’ll reach the top. From here, you can either drop straight in or traverse left to find fresh snow.
• The slope is moderately steep and wide, with minimal hazards as long as you stay central. The run eventually joins the Gentianes-Tortin itinerary at the bottom.

This area often holds good snow late into the season, but like all backcountry terrain, be mindful of snow conditions and always assess the avalanche risk.

‍

6. Off-Piste Skiing in Bruson

While Bruson is less known than Verbier, it’s a great spot for tree skiing during snowstorms and low visibility days.

• Most of the good off-piste routes here are found off the La Pasay chairlift. The terrain is more moderate, with plenty of opportunities for tree skiing.
• Stay skier’s right for progressively steeper terrain, but be careful not to head too far out. There are avalanche-prone areas and flat spots you’ll want to avoid.
• If you're unsure, or if visibility is poor, stick closer to the lift line or go with someone who knows the area well.

Bruson is best skied on powder days, especially in stormy conditions when the trees provide better visibility. However, always carry avalanche equipment and go prepared.

Important Off-Piste Safety Tips

Off-piste skiing comes with risks, and Verbier is no exception. Its accessible terrain can sometimes make people underestimate the dangers. Here are a few things to always keep in mind:

• Hire a guide: Unless you're highly trained, know the area well, and have a deep understanding of the current avalanche conditions, it’s best to hire a guide. Guides are familiar with the safest routes and can ensure you make smart choices in the backcountry.
• Check avalanche conditions: Always check the avalanche bulletin before heading out. Verbier's off-piste terrain can become dangerous after snowfall or sudden temperature shifts.
• Safety gear: Always bring avalanche safety gear: transceiver, shovel, and probe. Make sure you have sufficient training with your equipment. Consider using avalanche airbags too. 
• Be mindful of weather changes: In poor weather or low visibility, off-piste routes can become difficult to navigate. Always have an exit plan and don’t be afraid to make the (sometimes unpopular) decisions to turn around if it does not feel safe. 

‍

Final Thoughts on Verbier Off-Piste Skiing

Verbier’s off-piste terrain offers some of the best and most accessible skiing in the Alps. From wide open bowls to steep, technical lines, there’s something for every experienced skier. Whether you're exploring Col de Mines, challenging yourself on the Backside of Mont Fort, or hunting for fresh snow on Stairway to Heaven, Verbier provides endless opportunities for adventure.

Just remember: safety comes first. Always be prepared, check conditions, and consider hiring a guide for more remote or technical routes. With the right approach, your time in Verbier will be unforgettable.