Wade McKoy photos
ginning skiers, but strong intermediates are able to have a wonderful time. “The ski movies filmed in Alaska might be fun to watch, but most people don’t want to ski that type of terrain,” said Rota. “And with the advancement of fat-ski design, previous powderskiing experience isn’t completely necessary. If you can ski groomers, you can ski powder.” The guide staff has expert avalanche knowledge and all are ski instructors. Snowboarders and Tele-
Dave Swanwick, circa 1990s; VHSG
mark skiers are welcomed, too. Skiing in the Alaskan mountains requires good cardiovascular and muscular fitness, so it’s recommended that potential clients engage in an exercise program prior to their heli-ski excursion. The relatively low elevation of 6,000 feet down to sea level largely precludes any concern of altitude illnesses. Good physical fitness, though, is paramount to meeting the inherent challenges and achieving the best possible skiing experience. “Most folks who ski with confidence on blue runs do just fine heli-skiing,” said Rota. “Our guides are great instructors and coaches, and will guide you to and through the terrain that is suitable for you. “Powder skiing is the most fun, and the easiest aspect of skiing to master. If you can ski on rock-hard snow and moguls, powder is a piece of cake.”
SEABA
A safe route through gorgeous seracs and cravasses; Tordrillo
Photo courtesyTordrillo Mountain Lodge
Rick Armstrong, Pyramid, circa 1997; VHSG
Nestled in the quiet town of Haines, Alaska, Southeast Alaska Backcountry Adventures has been making skiers’ dreams come true for over a decade. Breathtaking ocean views and majestic mountain landscapes set the stage for roughly 409,000 acres of skiable terrain in the Chilkat and Tahkinsha mountains. “Haines is the home of one of the best maritime snowpacks in the world,” said Nic Trimble, SEABA owner and manager. “Huge storms consistently blanket the surrounding mountains with an impressive amount of snow. Even an ‘average’ year will leave you grinning from ear to ear.” Clients arrive in Haines via commercial flight or by ferry. The staff pick-up at the airport or the ferry terminal is followed by a short, scenic drive into town. Abundant wildlife on the brief trip is a bonus. Once at the Fort Seward Lodge, clients meet the guides and become acquainted with the area and how the program operates. This briefing includes an update on the current snow conditions, a look at the winter’s snow events and weather history, and a discussion on the various terrain that’s available. Then it’s time to gear up, head out, and begin that dream come true. On a typical heli-ski day, clients awake at the historic Fort Seward Lodge – or one of the private, oceanfront homes that are also available – grab breakfast, and attend the daily weather and schedule briefing. Next, a van-ride up the picturesque Haines w w w. j h s k i e r. n e t