Valdez and Thompson Pass

Guided Ski Mountaineering in Valdez, Alaska

Valdez is a dramatic town in the Chugach Mountains on the edge of Prince William Sound. The economy is oil-based, but during the spring months the city comes alive with skiers from around the world seeking the legendary terrain and powder. Most groups stay a hotel. Renting a house is another good option.

Each day we will commute from Valdez to Thompson Pass. Most of the Thompson Pass skiing is 4,500 day day tours above the road. Getting a heli or snowmachine drop to higher elevations is a good way to reduce the climbing. Most of the touring around Valdez is on glaciers, but the glaciers are relatively benign and no previous glacier travel experience is required.

Skill Level

Advanced alpine ski ability
Previous backcountry skiing experience
Endurance for consecutive full days in the mountains

Dates

December through late April. March and April have the ski best conditions.

Sample Itinerary

Day 0: Pre-trip meeting for trip overview, gear check and last minute purchases.

Day 1: Ski Hatcher Pass, drive six hours to Valdez.

Day 2: Ski Thompson Pass. Stay in Valdez.

Day 3: Ski Thompson Pass. Stay in Valdez.

Day 4: Ski Thompson Pass. Stay in Valdez.

Day 5: Ski Thompson Pass. Stay in Valdez.

Day 6: Ski Thompson Pass, drive to Anchorage.

Cost

1 client: $700 per day
2 clients: $400 per person per day
3 clients: $300 per person per day
4+ clients: $250 per person per day.
Contact Joe for custom itinerary and quote
In partnership with Alaska Guide Collective.
More booking info.

Includes

AMGA/IFMGA Mountain Guide Joe Stock. Up to eight clients. A second guide may be added.
Navigation, first aid and repair kits.
Emergency shelter and communication.
Glacier ropes.

Does Not Include

Travel to and within Alaska. The guide(s) will either ride with you, drive his own car (additional $200), or fly (additional $400).
Client lodging, food and drink in Valdez.
Guide lodging in Valdez.
See Southcentral Alaska Logistics.
Personal gear. See Backcountry Ski Gear List (sections 1-6). Some gear available for loan.
Rescue and trip insurance. See Booking for details.

Extras (please ask for custom itinerary)

Glacier camping.
Cabin in Prince William Sound
Heli skiing: Not with Joe. About $1,350 per person per day. Not included with trip cost. This booking is up to you.
Heli one drop: With Joe. About $750 for four skiers. Not included with trip cost. This will be booked at the last minute based on heli availability and conditions.
Snowmachine taxi: About $200 per person per ride. Not included with trip cost. This will be booked at the last minute based on availability and conditions.