Back Country Skiing

"The true skier does not follow where others lead. He is not confined to a piste. He is an artist who creates a pattern of lovely lines from virgin and uncorrupted snow. What marble is to the sculptor, so are the latent harmonies of ridge and hollow, powder, and sun-softened crust to the true skier. By a wise dispensation of providence, the snow, whose beauty has been defaced and destroyed by the multitude of piste addicts, does not record the passage of the "lifted skier." It is only soft snow that records the movements of individual skiers, and it is only soft snow that the real artist can express himself. "
Sir Arnold Lunn

The actor Steve McQueen once said that he'd prefer to wake up in the middle of nowhere than in any large city in the world. In their quest towards commercialism, many modern ski areas are beginning to resemble the urban locations that their visitors are escaping from. Indeed, some ski vacations merely present a replica of city life, albeit on the mountains.

Unfortunately, the crowding, long lines for lifts and gondolas, and the lack of freedom as to where you can ski bring about the same stress we strive to escape. For skiers who have worked hard at achieving expert skills, the predictability of perfectly groomed corduroy may grow to be far too mundane. Isn't skiing about escaping a mundane existence? If you believe that skiing is about personal freedom, isn't it time you experienced the backcountry?

In addition to their world-class heliskiing and snowcat skiing options, Valdez Heli-Camps offers you the opportunity to earn your turns with their ski touring hut option . You and five friends will be thrilled by the astonishing vistas that surround the Chugach Mountain range. Your smile will be as bright as the glistening glaciers and peaks you will ascend each morning.

At the end of the day, look up and experience Alaska 's Northern Lights. Then, get a good night's sleep in your fully insulated, heated and electrified 25' by 12' touring hut. VHC can arrange for a professional guide, or if you prefer, you can enjoy exploring the area on your own. Their Snowcat will transport you and your gear to the touring hut, and helicopter drops to even more remote areas are available as well. For your convenience, firewood, fuel and waste disposal are provided. Are you packed yet? No? What are you waiting for?

Call Valdez Heli-Camps at 907-783-3243 or e mail info@valdezhelicamps.com .