H2O Guides To Heli-Skiing in Alaska

Esben Pedersen Heli-Skiing in Chugach National Forest, Alaska © Soren Egeberg | Dreamstime

When you embark on your H2O Guide, you won’t be riding your average ski lift. H2O is a helicopter ski operator to take you far into the Alaskan wilderness,to the remote, untracked deep powder terrain of Chucagh National Forest. For the fearless skiers and snowboarders among us, this is the mountain challenge of a lifetime.

If you’re able to take on the intermediate blue runs at your usual ski area, then you’re ready to take on these mountains. The trained guides are happy to accommodate to the group’s ability, whether that means sticking to miles-long glaciers or tackling the nearly vertical Valdez slopes, and you’ll be taught all the ropes for how to handle the rugged terrain. The heli-skiing season begins in late February and extends through the end of April, filled with two-, five- and seven-day inclusive sessions.

Cockpit view of Chugach National Forest, Alaska © Soren Egeberg | Dreamstime

During an inclusive session, you’ll stay at the Valdez Harbor Inn, complete with daily breakfast and lunches for the field, and participate in a full introductory training and safety program.

If you can’t make it out this winter, not to worry. In August 2015, you can cool down at the Las Lenas, Argentina Ski Camp where you’ll take on the South American Andes.