The Future of Heli Skiing!
Discover Girdwood’s first helicopter-assisted backcountry ski tours for an epic day in Alaska’s Chugach Mountains. Fly high, ski fresh powder, and experience unparalleled mountain adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 to 8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in excellent physical condition with advanced skiing abilities to safely navigate backcountry terrain and endure long days.
Wildlife
History
Girdwood began as a mining town in the late 1800s and evolved as a ski destination with Alyeska Resort opening in 1960.
Conservation
Sundog Ski Guides emphasizes responsible travel and minimizes environmental impact by following Leave No Trace principles and using local helicopter charters to reduce footprint.
Girdwood Backcountry Guides
The Future of Heli Skiing!
Girdwood Backcountry Guides is an Anchorage, Alaska–based guide service that runs backcountry skiing experiences in Turnagain Pass and helicopter-assisted drop-off tours into the Chugach Mountains. The company offers a Half-Day Tour designed to take skiers into untouched alpine terrain in Turnagain Pass, and Girdwood Helicopter Drop-Off Backcountry Tours that include a scenic helicopter flight followed by ski runs and touring laps in the Chugach range.
The Half-Day Tour is described as suitable for all skill levels, with expert guides leading participants through scenic, less-crowded slopes and alpine vistas away from resort terrain. The Girdwood Helicopter Drop-Off option provides a flight into remote mountain zones for extended laps and expansive views. Both trip descriptions emphasize access to raw backcountry landscapes and focused guided time on snow.
Girdwood Backcountry Guides operates from Anchorage, Alaska, and advertises unique access to Turnagain Pass and helicopter-assisted terrain in the Chugach Mountains. Trip summaries highlight expert guides, untouched landscapes, and the opportunity for memorable runs and touring laps. For visitors seeking guided backcountry skiing experiences originating near Anchorage, these offerings present distinct on-snow options: a convenient half-day for varied ability levels and a helicopter-supported day in the high alpine.
Terrain Covered
Turnagain Pass & Chugach
Iconic Alaska alpine landscapes
Location
Anchorage, Alaska
Base for all tours
Tours Offered
2 Trip Types
Half-day and helicopter drop-off
Guides
Expert guides
Led by expert guides
Reserve a Half-Day Tour or a Helicopter Drop-Off backcountry experience for scenic runs in Turnagain Pass and the Chugach.
Arrive Prepared with Proper Touring Gear
Bring and know how to use avalanche safety equipment, including beacon, probe, and shovel, as this tour ventures into high-risk alpine terrain.
Be Physically Ready for a Full Day
This is a demanding adventure; ensure you have strong skiing skills and endurance for up to 8 hours of skiing and touring.
Check Weather and Snow Conditions
Alaska weather is variable; be prepared for cold temperatures and changing conditions impacting helicopter flights and skiing.
Arrive Early for Gear Checks and Safety Briefing
Plan to arrive by 8:30 AM at the meetup location to complete equipment review and receive a thorough safety briefing before flying out.
Avalanche Beacon
Essential for locating and being located during avalanche emergencies.
winter
Probe and Shovel
Crucial for avalanche rescue and snow safety in the backcountry.
winter
Touring Skis or Splitboard with Tech Bindings
Lightweight gear designed for uphill travel and downhill performance.
winter
Insulated Backpack (30-35L)
Large enough to carry safety gear, water, and extra layers safely in alpine conditions.
winter