Activities

Jennie Milton has been kiting on Thompson Pass longer than anyone, and her passion spreads like wildfire. A top competitor in kiting on both snow and water - and a certified drone pilot - she is an amazing instructor. Find her on Instagram at @Adrenajen.

Beginner course

A four-hour introduction to snow kiting. Learn how mountain winds work and how to read the forecast, how to set up a kite with all its safety features, and the basic flying techniques to get towed. The goal: everyone snow kiting by the end, getting first rides on skis or a snowboard - your choice.

Experienced riders

Bring your own gear or ride our selection of kites. We share the pro tips learned over years on the pass, guide you to the best play spots and features, and show you the routes up the mountains that we have figured out over the seasons.

Tim Stephens has climbed all over the world and has an admitted addiction to ice. He has ticked all the Valdez classics as well as big lines in the Alaska Range - including the Phantom Wall on Mt. Huntington - and is married to VHSG guide Kirsten Kremer. The two spend much of February climbing in Keystone Canyon, where roadside ice is easy to access and the side canyons hide endless adventures.

Beginner program

Learn the basics of ice climbing on a frozen waterfall. You can climb in your ski or snowboard boots with crampons we supply, and everyone wears a helmet at the base and on the wall - chunks of ice fall when picks are swinging. We set a top rope and belay you from the base of the flow, with a maximum ratio of 3 guests per guide for the best instruction and the safest experience possible.

Advanced program

Keystone Canyon is the perfect place for a multi-pitch ice climb. After the beginner course, Tim can guide you up one of the classics. Ice climbing boots are recommended, and guided multi-pitch climbs run at a maximum of 2 guests per guide.

Good to know

Valdez is famous for its skiing, but it remains one of the best-kept ice climbing secrets in Alaska. If you can't fly, you can climb - the perfect mix of sports: rest your ski legs, work your arms. The big classics usually hold ice until around April 10th (some seasons into May), and mixed climbing - rock climbing with ice tools - lasts all season. You get hot while climbing and cold while belaying, so dress in layers and pack both light and thick gloves.

The Tsaina backyard is home to world-class ski touring. Stairway and The Promise Land are two of the popular destinations right behind the lodge - most guests are happy with a shorter hike, but it is possible to climb all the way to the top. If you want some exercise outside the lodge gym and fresh turns to show for it, join us for a tour.

Weather

Storm days are perfect for the backyard. The first bench is a quick hit - about 20 to 30 minutes up - with good, sheltered turns and reasonable visibility in the trees and alders. Many guests lap it several times: the visibility is at its best there, and often the snow quality too.

Equipment

Already have touring gear? Bring it. Otherwise we have touring setups with climbing skins that adjust to normal downhill ski boots, plus snowshoes for snowboarders - everything you need to get out and enjoy the terrain. Wear layers: hot going up, cold going down.

Guides

Your guide helps you adjust the skis, fit the skins, and teaches you touring technique, then takes you on a tour that matches your ability. Backcountry skiing grows more popular every year - this is a great opportunity to pick up new skills.

Our bikes are made for snow: fat studded tires and an electric assist to help your pedaling. Ride the backyard trails out to the famous buried pipeline road, keep your legs strong between ski days, and drink in the fresh Alaska air and scenery.

Guided riding

Enjoy the company of an experienced rider who shares pro tips and helps you navigate the trails.

Self-guided

Experienced riders can explore the backyard trails on their own - we equip you with a radio to call us if you need any assistance.

Sightseeing & BBQ

Valdez has a beautiful small-boat harbor with direct access to Prince William Sound. Our bow-loading boat can land on shores and small beaches, and our captain - a Valdez local - knows all the sweet spots on the water.

Fishing

Starting in April, you can fish for halibut and rockfish. Captain Will guides you through every step of chasing these deep-water lurkers - generally a full day to reach the best spots, with half-day options available. More info at Valdez Salt Water Adventures.

Walking the docks

Getting on a boat isn't for everyone - but walking the docks on a snowy day is truly beautiful. Sea otters float on their backs, eagles scan for snacks, and when the mountains appear out of the clouds around the harbor, the sheer beauty of this place will stop you in your tracks.

If flying is delayed by the weather, use the time to relax and recharge before your next run. A professional masseuse is available at the Tsaina Lodge by appointment, with massages lasting from one to two hours.

License #171571 - Blue Hole Properties LLC DBA Tsaina Lodge.