Valdez Alaska Ski Mountaineering + Heli Skiing

Overview

Though the steep skiing is what attracts many people to Valdez, you don't have to be a pro to enjoy the vast terrain. While not limited to extreme skiers, you must be a strong advanced intermediate skier to really enjoy what Valdez is all about. The Valdez mountains are incredibly stunning in their beauty, with sharp jagged ridge lines whose faces are ribboned with couloirs. The easy access to jaw-dropping lines is unparalleled. From the Thompson Pass area, there is virtually no approach — good skiing literally from the tops of the peaks right to the road. Skiing in Valdez should be on the bucket list of any true skier. This five-day program gives you the full Valdez experience: five full days of human-powered ski mountaineering, hiking from the road on skis and skins to access powdery faces and couloirs above. For those who want to maximize vertical, two optional helicopter add-ons are available at additional cost: a 'Heli Bump' — one helicopter ride to the top of your first big line, then ski and climb your way back to the road — and a full Heli day with one of the heli-skiing operations near the pass. These are not included in the base trip price but can be arranged depending on conditions and availability. We stay in a comfortable Bed & Breakfast in the town of Valdez. ITCOG rents a vehicle in Anchorage for ground transport throughout the trip.

Highlights

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