Ride uphill on snowcats and sleds with Black Ops Valdez for unmatched backcountry skiing near Happy Valley, Alaska. Get ready for deep powder, rugged terrain, and expert safety guidance.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have good cardiovascular fitness and stamina to handle multiple runs and variable terrain conditions.
Wildlife
History
Valdez has long been a gateway for rugged outdoor pursuits, with a deep connection to Alaskan gold rush eras and indigenous Sitka culture.
Conservation
Black Ops Valdez emphasizes minimizing environmental impact by limiting group sizes and employing safe travel practices to protect fragile alpine ecosystems.
Black Ops Valdez
Ride uphill on snowcats and sleds with Black Ops Valdez for unmatched backcountry skiing near Happy Valley, Alaska. Get ready for deep powder, rugged terrain, and expert safety guidance.
Black Ops Valdez is a Valdez, Alaska-based operator specializing in helicopter-accessed skiing and snowcat/sled experiences. The company offers a selection of focused packages that connect guests with untouched alpine terrain and curated lodging options. Packages include single-day heli-skiing with up to 10 runs in small groups of up to four, a 3-day in-town heli package with 1.5 hours of flight time staying at the Totem Hotel & Suites, a 3-day heli-skiing package with two hours of flight time and Robe Lake Lodge accommodations, and a 7-day heli-skiing package featuring five hours of flight time and luxury lodging at Robe Lake Lodge. Black Ops Valdez also lists snowcat/sled skiing among its offerings.
Safety equipment is provided across applicable packages, ensuring guests receive comprehensive safety gear for helicopter excursions. Lodging options vary by package and include Robe Lake Lodge for multi-day heli-skiing stays and Totem Hotel & Suites for in-town heli experiences. Flight time and itinerary details are specified per package. Black Ops Valdez presents clear, package-specific information so prospective guests can select the trip that matches their desired flight time, accommodation style, and skiing format. All descriptions and package elements referenced here reflect the operator’s published trip summaries and factual offering details.
Tours Offered
5
Five distinct skiing and heli trips
Max Group Size
Up to 4
Small groups on single-day heli trips
Max Flight Time
5 hours
Total flight time in 7-day package
Accommodations
Robe Lake & Totem
Lodge and in-town hotel stays
Select the right package, confirm flight time and lodging, and secure safety gear for an unforgettable Alaskan skiing experience.
Always check avalanche conditions
Avalanche risk fluctuates rapidly in alpine zones—confirm current reports and heed guides’ advice before heading out.
Dress for variable weather
Alaska’s winters can shift from sun to snowstorm quickly—layering and waterproof gear keep you comfortable on the run.
Bring your own ski or snowboard gear
While transport is provided, participants need to supply their own equipment suitable for backcountry conditions.
Prepare for remote terrain
Cell service is unreliable; rely on guides and be ready for true wilderness travel with limited amenities.
Avalanche beacon
Crucial for locating skiers in avalanche emergencies during backcountry travel.
winter
Waterproof outer layers
Protects against snow, moisture, and cold winds on exposed alpine terrain.
winter
Airbag backpack
Enhances your chances of staying on top in an avalanche by increasing buoyancy.
winter
Ski or snowboard helmet
Provides essential head protection on steep, variable terrain and during vehicle transfers.
winter