5 of the Best Apps for Backcountry Skiers

Skiing in the backcountry is like the holy grail of experiences for more advanced skiers and riders. However, it comes with a little bit more prep than just skiing laps at ski resorts. If you’ve been backcountry skiing, then you’ve no doubt taken safety courses and have your gear setup that includes a beacon, shovel, and probe (If you’re new to backcountry skiing, check out our article here). But before you go tracking through fresh powder, there are some apps that you can download to elevate your day backcountry skiing. See our picks below for the best apps for backcountry skiers and riders.

onX Backcountry

The GPS map app, onX Backcountry, provides exceptional value for the sheer range of tools it packs into one platform—functioning as a true one‑stop shop for navigation and trip planning, both on and off the mountain. Standout features include integration of the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale, which classifies terrain by complexity and potential hazard, a clear slope‑angle layer to identify where avalanches are most likely, and a library of pre‑marked routes to help spark ideas for new objectives. Additionally, onX offers dedicated activity modes—skiing, climbing, hiking, and mountain biking—so users can tailor the information for the adventure at hand. Add in reliable GPS tracking and the ability to save maps for offline use, and the app becomes a dependable tool for navigating in poor visibility or remote terrain. Every layer and feature can be toggled on or off with ease, giving this backcountry app a level of functionality that remains remarkably user‑friendly. Memberships for onX Backcountry start at $30 per year. The app is available on the iOS App Store and Google Play.

Gaia GPS

Gaia GPS is a map app for a variety of different outdoor adventures—off-roading, hiking, and of course backcountry skiing. One of Gaia GPS’ standout features is its enormous catalog of map sources, drawn from a wide range of providers and covering touring zones in several countries. That depth really pays off when you’re planning a trip into unfamiliar terrain, whether it’s close to home or halfway around the world. Unlike many apps that rely on a single basemap, Gaia layers multiple sources—USGS, USFS, CalTopo, OpenTopo, and region‑specific international maps—so skiers can view overlapping perspectives of the same zone and make more informed decisions about the terrain that they’re adventuring on.

For international trips, dedicated topo maps for Canada, Europe, Japan, and beyond ensure that you’re not stuck with generic global maps that miss key details. The app also includes slope‑angle shading, avalanche forecasts, and snow‑depth layers, giving backcountry skiers and riders a wealth of winter‑specific information in one place. All layers can be toggled on and off to keep the interface clean and uncluttered. Gaia GPS offers a free plan with basic mapping, trail searches, and activity tracking, though it requires cell service or Wi‑Fi. The paid version—$4.99 per month—unlocks offline maps and the full suite of advanced layers, which is where this backcountry app truly shines. Gaia GPS is available on the iOS App Store and Google Play.

CalTopo

CalTopo offers a powerful set of planning and terrain analysis tools, providing more information than most other navigation apps. What truly sets it apart? Its emphasis on customization and technical detail—users can layer functions, creating a deeply nuanced picture of the terrain they plan to explore on. However, keep in mind that CalTopo’s map layers are designed with professional rescuers, guides, and avalanche educators in mind. Depending on your skills and confidence level, that access to professional-grade analytical tools may or may not be helpful, so we recommend playing around with the app for a few days before taking it into the backcountry. The platform also allows users to toggle between different topo sources and generate detailed elevation profiles for any route you draw. Combined with robust offline capabilities and seamless syncing between web and mobile, CalTopo gives backcountry travelers a level of control and precision that’s hard to match.

Basic features are available for free, with two subscription tiers, starting at $50 per year, offering more advanced features. CalTopo is available on desktop, iOS, and Android.

Avalanche Forecasts

For skiers who travel across multiple areas on a backcountry ski trip, or those who are curious about what’s happening elsewhere, Avalanche Forecasts is an essential app. It consolidates the most important safety and route‑planning information—danger ratings, observations, and weather data—into one easy‑to‑use platform, giving skiers a clear picture of snowpack behavior across North America. What sets it apart is the sheer breadth of data it pulls together, aggregating reports from every avalanche center on the continent, allowing users to compare conditions across regions without juggling multiple websites or apps. The interface makes it simple to scan hazard levels by elevation and aspect, and user‑submitted observations help create a real‑time snapshot of changing conditions. For anyone who moves between mountain ranges—or simply wants authoritative, localized insight—Avalanche Forecasts is an indispensable tool for planning safe winter travel. This app is completely free and available on the iOS App Store and Google Play.

Backcountry SOS

For backcountry skiers who want an extra safety net in remote terrain, Backcountry SOS is an essential app. While we’d still recommend carrying a satellite communication device into the backcountry, this app can provide a backup method of calling for help. Upon activation, it automatically identifies your location and connects you with the proper emergency dispatch center. The app is easy to use, which is fantastic for a high-stress situation—users can reach help by simply pressing a button. The clean, minimal interface makes it easy to use even in cold, low‑visibility, or high‑pressure moments, and its ability to function in areas with weak cell service adds another layer of reliability. Backcountry SOS is a smart, streamlined tool for managing emergencies for anyone who ventures into the backcountry. It’s available on the iOS App Store and Google Play, is free to download and use.

More Tips Before Going Out Backcountry Skiing

A few more tips before going backcountry skiing. First, download maps for your selected area ahead of time so you can ensure you’ve got access, even when you don’t have cellular data. Similarly, put your phone in airplane mode to conserve battery, and do your best to avoid using apps that eat up a lot of battery, like social media apps. For the best performance, keep your phone warm by storing it close to your body, but make sure it’s at least 50 centimeters (19 inches) away from your beacon at all times to prevent accidental interference. Finally, consider having an extra power bank or two so you don’t risk your phone being completely dead while in the backcountry.

Check out more recommendations and tips in the following articles: