What is ski mountaineering? Ski mountaineering, which was a part of the 2020 Winter Youth Olympic Games in Lausanne, Switzerland, combines the skills of ascending mountains and descending them. Athletes showcase their fitness while ascending steep slopes on skis and their technical strengths while navigating the challenging downhill sections.

The sport of ski mountaineering makes its official Olympic debut at this year’s Winter Games, featuring both men’s and women’s sprints and a mixed-relay event.