Valdez Ski Week

Dates: April 16-20, 2010, Custom dates March 2010

Trip Highlights

• Experience the majestic glaciated backcountry ski terrain in the birthplace of American Heli-Skiing.
• Learn modern ski mountaineering techniques while skiing the classic descents of the Valdez area.
• Helicopter and/or snowcat assisted ski objectives can be utilized to take advantage of those “epic” powder days.

Trip Description

Valdez is a quiet fishing village famous for two things; the Exxon Valdez oil spill and steep, velvety powder skiing.  The birthplace of American Helicopter skiing is also host to some of the most spectacular glaciated ski mountaineering in the North America. It’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and comparatively warm temperatures contribute to a generally stable maritime snowpack that regularly receives 1000 inches of snow annually.

Simply put, ski mountaineering weeks in Valdez are focused on helping our guests accomplish their ski or snowboard goals.

Want to focus on skiing the steep technical terrain Valdez is famous for?  Rather spend your time learning the intricacies of glaciated ski mountaineering? Is your group more interested in long tours emphasizing the journey? Your guides and the terrain in the Chugach can easily accommodate any and all of these goals.

By focusing on low ratio guiding and instructional programs we have the flexibility to explore the terrain as conditions and motivations dictate. This custom tailored program offers guests the opportunity to learn from some of the best educators/guides in the industry.

The Worthington Glacier

Travel Logistics:

Valdez is located roughly 300 road miles East of Anchorage. When weather is optimal the drive takes approximately 6 hours. However, a short (30 minutes) and relatively inexpensive flight will get you from Anchorage (serviced by five major airlines) to the Valdez (VDZ) airport.

Stay in a comfortable hotel or bed and breakfast and take advantage of the easy access and spectacular high mountain terrain by day touring at nearby Thompson Pass.  Rest and refuel while dining in town at one of the many restaurants.

Provider can assist and recommend specific hotels or bed and breakfast establishments.

Mike Bromberg making turns in the ‘deez photo: Jayson Simons-Jones

On-Snow Itinerary:

Day 1- Arrive in Valdez, Check into hotel and gear check for next day’s objectives

Day 2- Avalanche introduction with companion rescue practice- day’s objectives will emphasize touring technique specific to Alaska’s complex glaciated terrain. Typically our first day is spent at the Worthington Glacier area.

Day 3- Day 6- Day Touring objectives and/or helicopter assisted descents in the Thompson Pass area. Runs and objectives include local classics like “Cracked-Ice” “Girls’ Mountain” “RFS” and the “Little Matterhorn” to name a few.

Helicopter skiing is optional during these days, but can be arranged easily. It is recommended that you ski with helicopter assistance if weather and finances allow, however not essential.

Day 7- Travel day

Heli-Ski Touring Intensive weeks can be arranged per special request and group interest.

Cost

1 person $ 3,000
2 people $ 2,400 per person
3 people $ 1,700 per person

What is Included:

1. Guiding and instruction by AMGA Certified Ski Mountaineering Guide(s)
2. Transportation while in Valdez
3. Lodging for 5 nights
4. Breakfast and Dinner at Bed and Breakfast
5. All necessary group technical gear
6. Avalanche equipment

What is NOT Included?

-        Air travel to and from Valdez, AK

-        Food and Drink in Valdez

-        Six nights lodging in Valdez

-        Helicopter Skiing/ Helicopter Assistance

-        Snowcat Skiing/ Snowcat Assistance

-        Rescue insurance (ask provider for details).

Physical Condition- Guests should be strong intermediate skiers or advanced/expert snowboarders to make the most out of their ski experience in Valdez. Being able to ski comfortably on most “black diamond” rated terrain is a suitable ability level.

More importantly, guests should be able to travel uphill/hike for an extended period. Ascents of up to 3000ft/1000m are not uncommon in the Chugach, so having enough “gas” to enjoy the downhill is essential.

Prepare with moderate physical activity before your trip. This includes aerobic activities and if possible ski touring close to your local venue.

Gear Recommendations:

Alpine Touring Ski Gear or a Split-snowboard is essential to best explore the terrain around Valdez. Your trip provider will provide an extensive gear list for ski mountaineering. See our post on Ski Mountaineering Gear

Gear Included:

Ski Mountaineering specific harnesses will be included in the trip cost, as well as avalanche transceivers, shovels and probes. All other personal gear will be the responsibility of the guest.

Weather:

Weather in the Chugach can be quite varied, although March and April tend to hold the most consistent snow quality and temperatures. Because of the low elevations (up to 7000 ft), guests tend to acclimatize easily.

What to Bring:

Personal Equipment (guide will discuss in detail during trip preparation)
- Backpack (25-35 L) Ski Specific Backpacks are especially handy.
- Watch with alarm
- Sunglasses and goggles
- Sunscreen and lip protection (SPF 40+)
- Headlamp (extra batteries)
- Skins for ski touring (skin wax)

- Ski Crampons
- Ski Boots (AT/ Randonnee preferred, telemark or snowboard upon approval)
- Randonnee/ AT skis preferred  (telemark skis or split snowboard upon approval)
- Ski poles (even for splitboarders)
- Boot Crampons and Ice axe (60cm or less- guide will help)
- Thin and thick Goves
- Hats (winter and baseball cap) Balaclava optional

- down or synthetic coat

- waterproof jacket (Gore-tex or equivalent)

- waterproof pants (Gore-tex or equivalent)

- Softshell ski pants

- Softshell jacket (hood optional)

- lightweight wool or synthetic baselayers (top and bottom)

- lightweight windbreaker optional

Risks/Medical Considerations

Insurance Coverage:

Travel insurance as well as rescue insurance is recommended for emergency situations in Valdez.

Evacuation Procedures:

All of our guides have CPR/First Aid certifications and are well trained in safe evacuation procedures. All evacuation procedures are detailed in operational emergency action plans for specific venues.

Hazards/Health Risks:

Risks include mountainous hazards, such as avalanches, rock falls, rocks and stumps below snow surface, high winds, etc.