What should I bring?
What should I bring heli skiing or heliboarding in Alaska.
Preparing for your heli skiing trip to Valdez should not be all that different than any other extended ski or snowboard vacation. In addition to your standard equipment and clothing, here are a few prerequisites (of course, see What's Included? to get an idea on how to round out your packing list):
Camera/Video Camera: Don't forget to bring extra media (CD/DVD/memory sticks to help facilitate trading). See "Will you Arrange for Photos of My Experience?" for more information.
Sunscreen: You really will need this, no matter when you come!
Sunglasses: Yep, see above! Polarized sports glasses are becoming quite popular.
Additional Layering Items: Temperatures can flux during the day. The sun can be VERY warm. See What Temperatures Can I Expect? for more information.
Small Daypack: This is a great place to rotate your layers through. There's no locker at the day lodge at the end of each run when you are heli skiing! While you can leave some of your personal items in our heated briefing area (and you can leave skis/boards and utilize our boot dryers there each evening). You will essentially board the Heli (or Snow Cat) and not return until the end of the day. Anything you MUST have with you should be carried on your person, since there's no location to leave it in the helicopter!
You may bring your own avalanche probe and/or shovel if you are comfortable with their use and operation. An Avalanche Transceiver will be issued to you during your stay with us.
FINALLY: Bring Your Boots! Most of you are well seasoned travelers with your ski gear, but carefully read this! There is no ski shop in Valdez, and we do not stock ski or snowboard boots (If you've rented skis with us, we do have poles that are included with your rental). If the airline loses your luggage along the way, we can provide assistance to help you replace everything but the boots! Thus if current airport regulations allow, we HIGHLY recommend that you carry your boots on the plane with you.
When should I arrive in Valdez (Help with travel arrangements)?
What do I do if I need to add days to my travel plans (Layover Information)?
What trip should I choose (How long should I plan to come)?
Should I buy new ski or snowboard equipment?
What temperatures can I expect? (How cold does it get?)
Do I want (or need) a private helicopter?
What is the cat skiing terrain like?
Will you arrange for a roommate?
Will you arrange for photos of my heli ski adventure?