Backcountry Ski Guide
& Outdoor Education
Whether chasing untracked powder in the mountains of Japan or adventuring under the Australian sun, Chess offers expert-guided experiences for every season that bring the wild within reach. As a backcountry ski guide in Japan, Chess leads ski touring and splitboarding expeditions into remote, pristine terrain - crafting journeys through snowy peaks that blend technical skill with a deep respect for the mountain environment. In Australia, she works as an outdoor education instructor delivering transformative programs across a range of disciplines including hiking, biking, surfing, canoeing and multi-day camping adventures under the stars. With a passion for safety, education and a genuine connection to nature, Chess tailors every experience to the individual — whether you're a first-time adventurer or a seasoned outdoorsperson looking to push further.
Two countries, one commitment to exceptional outdoor adventure.
Backcountry Ski Guide
Hokkaido
Japan
Francesca "Chess" Smee began her career at Thredbo Ski School teaching the little groms in Thredboland to ski and snowboard. Naturally, she went on to expand her instructing experience in Japan, discovering the backcountry of Niseko and Central Hokkaido in her spare time. 15 winters later and her passion for the mountains and for empowering people to enjoy the outdoors safely continues to grow.
Career highlights include being a lead guide for a dynamic team of 40 international guides with Rhythm Japan. Women’s Program Lead with K7 Adventures in Kosciuszko National Park, Australia. Practicum heli-ski guide, avalanche educator and race and freeride coach in Revelstoke, Canada.
Dedicated to professional development, Chess holds APSI Alpine 3 Ski Instructor, CAA AvSAR 2, CAA Avalanche Operations 1, Wilderness First Aid, and Cert IV Outdoor Recreation: Alpine Guide certifications. Chess was featured in the starring role of MAVEN Film, Australia's first all-female backcountry ski film.
Chess balances her Australian winters between instructing at Thredbo and guiding for K7 Adventures. During the northern winters, she works in Japan as a ski touring and multi-mountain resort guide around Hokkaido. Whether working with beginners or guiding experienced skiers through advanced terrain, Chess brings technical skill, safety expertise, and an encouraging approach to every tour.
Based: Thredbo, NSW (Australian Winter) | Niseko, Japan (Northern Winter)Experience: 15+ seasons ski instructing & backcountry guidingSpecialties: Ski Touring, SNOWSHOEING, Women's Programs, SCHOOL GROUPSCertifications: APSI Alpine 3 Ski Instructor, CAA AvSAR 2 , CAA Avalanche Operations 1, Wilderness First Aid, Cert IV Outdoor Rec: Alpine GuideNotable: MAVEN Film (Australia's first all-female backcountry ski film)Outdoor Education
Duke of Ed Specialist
Support in design and delivery of multi day duke of edinburgh award adventurous journeys
Activity Instructor
Group Leader
Multi day expedition leader facilitating teamwork, leadership, exploration and connectionsnow, trail, hike, bike, canoe, initiatives, team-building