Guided Ski Mountaineering

What is Ski Mountaineering?

Ski mountaineering means we bring a rope. If needed, we use the rope to prevent a fall in steep terrain or for glacier travel. Ski mountaineering also emphasizes climbing summits and skiing down.

The mountains around Anchorage in Southcentral Alaska are surrounded by glaciers and peaks. This makes Anchorage the best ski mountaineering base in the US. During March, April, May, and June these glaciers become a ski paradise with long days and more stable snow for steep skiing. We can access the high peaks using our own power from the road, or using an air taxi to help us reach the high country quickly. Please contact me and we'll discuss the options.

Trip Options

Day Ski Mountaineering Tours

Southcentral Alaska has the best road-accessed ski mountaineering in the United States. Where we go depends on your interests and the conditions. It will be in the the Western Chugach, Chugach Front (non-glaciated), Kenai Mountains, and Talkeetna Mountains. Trips in May or later involve more walking to reach the snow. Save walking time on later season trips by camping in the alpine.

Multi-Day Ski Mountaineering Tours

Camping in the alpine can save hiking time, especially on later season trips when the snow is melted at lower elevations. Occasionally it’s possible to get a helicopter drop in the alpine from Girdwood.

Denali Ski Base Camp

The best ski mountaineering in North America. Denali Ski Base Camp page. See Denali Ski Base Camp posts.

Sample Multi-Day Itinerary

Day 0 Meet in Anchorage at 6pm at your hotel. Gear check and last minute gear purchases. Stay in Anchorage.

Day 1 Load skis and packs into the car and drive one to one and half hours to a trailhead in Chugach, Talkeetna or Kenai Mountains. Ski into a camp. Set up camp and ski a run.

Day 2 Move camp, ski peaks and glaciers.

Day 3 Move camp, ski peaks and glaciers.

Day 4 Pack up camp and ski out to the road. It’s often possible to cache the overnight gear for a run along the way.

Day 5 Fly home on the redeye. Most flights in and out of Anchorage are near midnight.

Skill Level

Intermediate to advanced alpine skiing skills.
Endurance for consecutive days in the mountains.
Previous camping experience recommended for overnight tours.
Recent avalanche rescue practice.

Dates

March through June. Mid-March into May is best for long days and stable snow in Southcentral Alaska. Summer ski mountaineering continues into June.

Cost

1 client: $700 per day
2 clients: $400 per person per day
3 clients: $300 per person per day
4+ clients: $250 per person per day.
In partnership with Alaska Guide Collective.
More booking info.

Includes

AMGA/IFMGA Mountain Guide Joe Stock. Up to eight clients. A second guide may be added.
Cooking gear if camping (stove, pots, fuel, cook tent)
Navigation, first, aid and repair kits
Emergency shelter and communication
Rope