Guided Ski Mountaineering in Southcentral Alaska 

Let's Climb and Ski Peaks! 

On a 6,000-foot summit above Girdwood.

Anchorage is surrounded by glaciers. In March, April, May and even June these glaciers become a ski paradise with long days and snow that is often stable for steep skiing.

The best access point to these mountains is near Girdwood, an hour drive from Anchorage. Although many day-touring options exist, a helicopter drop-off makes access to the high peaks quick and easy, especially for multi-day trips to the high glaciers. Please call or email and we'll discuss the options. 

Ski mountaineering posts: 

Return to Skiing Overview 

Heli Drop Option

After skiing around the world I've learned the best skiing is a 45-minute drive and 10-minute helicopter ride from my home in Anchorage. The Western Chugach Mountains above Girdwood offer countless steep peaks and lower angle glacier runs. Helicopters allow us to bump 5,000 feet straight up to these mountains leaving more energy for skiing. I suggest using the helicopter to access the mountains, then we ski back out to Girdwood rather than flying out. Skiing back to Girdwood rather than flying is more fun and avoids the common problem of being weather-bound and waiting for a helicopter. Whether using a one-way flight, or flying both ways, we'll pack light to have the option of skiing out. Due to land restrictions, we'll land on the Swallow Glacier to access peaks around the Eagle, Swallow and Whiteout Glaciers. The Swallow is a dramatic venue with many options and a short distance to the more populated Eagle Glacier. Heli rates, total for one-way heli lift are approximately: 1 customer ~$500, 2 customers ~$1000, 3 customers ~$1000. 

Skill Level

  • Intermediate to advanced alpine skiing skills.
  • Endurance consecutive days in the mountains.
  • Previous winter camping experience for camping tours.

Dates

March through June, mid-March to mid May is best for long days and stable snow in Southcentral Alaska. 

Cost

  • 1 customer: $450 per day
  • 2 customers: $300 per person per day
  • 3+ customers: $200 per person per day (second guide added over four customers)
  • In partnership with Alaska Alpine Adventures.

Includes

  • IFMGA* guide Joe Stock. A second guide will be added over four customers. 
  • Cooking gear for camping (stove, pots, fuel, cook tent)
  • Navigation, first aid and repair kits
  • Emergency shelter and communication

*Joe is the only internationally certified mountain guide living and working in Alaska. 

Does Not Include

Helicopters allow fast and easy access to untouched skiing in the Western Chugach Mountains. 
 
The best ski mountaineering on the planet. These mountains are covered with glaciers, but the glaciers are relatively benign with smaller crevasses that present few difficulties and keep options open. 
 
Ripping powder on a north face high in the Western Chugach in mid-May. 
 
Pole-whacking to psych-up before dropping in above Turnagain Arm. 
 
Todd Smith making a 4am ascent of Whiteout Peak to ski the 45-degree west face.
 
Chilling at high camp after skiing 5,000 vertical feet of powder and corn.