First Glacier Skiing, Gear Guide - Snow Report 12th October - Accommodation Engelberg | Ski Lodge Engelberg

12.10.2025

Finally, it’s that time of year when you get to gather the ski gear. Taking out the gear you know and love, the backpack that’s starting to get a bit sun-bleached – when did that happen? The transceiver – well done, I remembered to take the batteries out before storing it for summer (pat on the shoulder). Socks, loads of ski socks – which were my favourites? I can’t remember. Where did I leave my skis in May? In whose garage did they end up? Or are they simply in my basement? Even though the last time we skied was in early May, about five months ago, we forget the routines, forget where we left things off. But oh, does the gear bring out those memories and feelings.

We’re happy the mountain opened up this early this year – cruising down the glacier, seeing the valley far, far below in full autumn colors, meeting up with friends you only ever see in the mountains and at après. Transported by the Glacier T-bar and the Ice Flyer chairlift, you can reach two prepared slopes. The skiing reminds us of spring skiing – cold groomers for the early birds, and softer turns for those waiting for the sun to loosen up the snow in the afternoon.

Prepare for early season glacier skiing:

The early glacier skiing on Titlis reminds us of spring skiing. We’re enjoying skiing fast on the pistes and maybe even sneaking in a short (and rare) one-on-one date on the mountain’s only T-bar lift. If you’ve done your pre-season squats and workouts, this is when you’ll notice. If not, this is your cue to start. You still have a few months to prepare before the serious leg-burning Steinberg runs are all the rage. For now, prepare your social skills – which are the must-see ski movies coming out? What new gear will you get this season? Any big missions in the planning? What new trick will you learn this winter? In other words, get into that ski banter we all know and love. Because the lift ride upp and down from the top is long.

Let’s talk Gear:

This type of skiing doesn’t call for more gear than a pair of skis with sharp edges – preferably not your widest powder skis (but we understand if this is the only pair you have or want to ride; after all, we are living in Engelberg). Your basic safety equipment: helmet and back protection. When it comes to ski clothing, this is when you can get creative. Maybe this isn’t the time you need that high-performance Gore-Tex set (even though it’s intriguing to show it off). Try out a coach jacket look, maybe go with no goggles and speedy sunnies instead – something you’ve always wanted to try? or even your grandpa’s knitted gloves. Performance isn’t really the priority here, getting in to the feeling of the boots and the joy of skiing is!!

Iceflyer on Titlis Glacierskiing Engelberg

Current cotnitions on the Titlis glacier

Freeriding in Glacier terrain:

When we’re on the subject of glacier skiing, freeriding on the glaciers around Engelberg requires more caution and preparation. Off-piste skiing involves risks that every freerider should be prepared for in advance – bring a guide and make sure you’ve done your safety training. This is the gear we would bring while freeriding in Engelberg.

Freeriding Gear List:

Backpack with Airbag
Avalanche Transceiver
Avalanche Shovel
Avalanche Probe
First-Aid kit
Sunnglases
Extra gloves
Extra layer, Puffer jacket or vest
Snacks
A good friend (or a guide) you trust and that also has the training needed:)

Engelberg Mountain Guide Freeride Packing List:https://www.engelbergmountainguide.ch/en/info-2/packing-lists/

This is the time we can plan and prepere for the our adventures this winter, we recommend booking a Pre-season Camp or an avalanche course with our friends at Engelberg Mountain Guide :http://engelbergmountainguide.ch/en/