Ski Tour in Gudauri: Mount Bidara

Location

Mount Bidara is located in Kazbegi municipality, to the north of the resort of Gudauri. It has two peaks: Didi (Big) Bidara – 3,174 meters above sea level; and Patara (Little) Bidara – 3,011 meters above sea level. The summits are a mixture of alpine meadows and a rocky ridge. The eastern slope of Bidara overlooks the ski runs of ​​Gudauri, and the west side overlooks the Georgian Military Highway. From the eastern ridge of Big Bidara, a cable car glides across to the village of Kobi.

Route

The route starts at Gudauri. Taking advantage of the cable car, you can reach a height of 2,900 meters, near the Kobi Pass, from where the ski tour commences. The elevation is 135 meters. Standing on Bidara Ridge, there are several skiing options.

You can ski on both the western and eastern slopes. The latter will take you to the Gudauri cable cars, while former will take you to the Georgian Military Highway, where it would be wise to ensure a car is waiting for you.

If you prefer, you can start skiing from 2,700 meters above sea level and, passing through Little Bidara Ridge. However, bear in mind snow conditions and take the advice of a certified guide before descending.

Skiing on this particular track is possible from January to the end of April.

Things to Consider

The starting point of the route can be reached by off-road car.

In addition to hiring an experienced guide, it is important to have the right equipment, including, ski touring skis, an avalanche bag, a transmitter, a shovel, a probe, and other necessities.

All cable cars in the mountain and ski resorts of Georgia function with a unified ticket system whereby a multi-day ticket can be used at Goderdzi, Mestia, Gudauri, and Bakuriani.

Before and after taking this route, one can stay in a hotel in Gudauri, although it can also be done in a day from Tbilisi.