Top 5 Alaska Heli Skiing Myths? SNOW took a good look at some common myths about Alaska heli skiing, that just are not true.

Myth Number 1: In Alaska you have to jump out of the helicopter to start skiing.

Top 5 Alaska Heli Skiing MythsContrary to popular belief, the helicopter will make a secure landing. This allows you to get out of the helicopter calmly, where you wait for the heli to lift off and fly away. Most of the time the helicopter will be using an LZ (Landing Zone) that they have used many times before. Hollywood and James Bond have their own versions of what heli skiing is really about but we can assure you that you will not be jumping out of the helicopter at any of the top operations and your landings will safe and effortless.

 

Myth Number 2: You may be chased down the run by Moose or Bears while skiing.

Top 5 Alaska Heli Skiing MythsThough you are very likely to see Moose and Bears while in Alaska, the Moose and Bears will not to be found trying to steal your first tracks or eat you for a pre-dinner snack. Your guides are always looking out for wildlife from the heli and will often point them out to you as you fly over them. They are mostly found in the lower elevations and viewing them from the heli is really the best vantage point.

 

 

 

 

Myth Number 3: Heli-Skiing in Alaska is super rustic and it’s hard to find nice accommodations.

Top 5 Alaska Heli Skiing MythsYes, there are a number of heli operations that look like they stage out of a Motel 6-like hotel, but many operations are very luxe. The lodge is your perfect home away from home. It is clean and cozy and you are just as welcome to hang out in the kitchen as you are the living room or bar.

Myth Number 4: Isn’t Heli Skiing in Alaska just for crazy “huckers” trying to ski spines and outrun avalanches?

Top 5 Alaska Heli Skiing MythsYes, Alaska is where the first World Extreme Ski Competition took place, but most heli operation in Alaska have terrain to suit all skiers, from an intermediate skill level to someone looking to push the envelope. The guide teams have spent years skiing, guiding, and pioneering new runs in their heli terrain and they tailor every trip to the desires and skill levels of their guests.

Myth Number 5: You have to catch or shoot your dinner and eat wild game or burgers for every meal

Top 5 Alaska Heli Skiing MythsYes, Alaska is the last frontier, and you do have opportunities to eat local, but you will not have to shoot your own Dall Sheep for dinner, cause your guides have done that for you over the summer months. Since you work up quite an appetite heli-skiing in Alaska, ask the executive chef what is his favorite dish. Most operations also have a killer wine list.