Frequently asked questions

VHSG is the original Alaska heli-ski operation, founded by two-time World Extreme Skiing Champion Doug Coombs in 1993. We pioneered guided helicopter skiing in the Chugach - widely considered the best heli-ski terrain on Earth - and more than three decades later we are still based in the heart of it, with the most experienced guide team in the range.

Both! Each lodge has its own heli-pad, so depending on your lodging, you will fly from either the Tsaina Lodge or the Alaska Rendezvous Lodge. But the world's best ski terrain is always just a 2-minute helicopter bump away.

All VHSG lead guides have at least 10 years of experience as heli-ski guides.

Demo skis, ski poles and snowboards are included in our Membership Packages. That said, Valdez is remote, and gear is very hard to find locally - so we ask that guests bring their own ski or snowboard boots, and pack a spare pair of goggles in case of loss or breakage.

We recommend renting a car and driving - it's a beautiful drive that takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on which lodge you are staying at. If a private air charter is booked into Valdez, we will pick you up upon arrival and drive you to the Tsaina Lodge or Alaska Rendezvous Lodge, located 35 miles and 45 miles from Valdez respectively. We can also book a third-party shuttle service that will pick you up at a specified location or at Ted Stevens International Airport and drive you directly to the lodges.

Download the Packing & Preparation List and Welcome to the Chugach for more info. You can also ship your gear and luggage door-to-door with this shipping company.

VHSG helicopters are fitted with Hobbs meters, which only register when the helicopter is flying. Time the helicopter is on the ground - even if its engine is running - does not register on the Hobbs meter.

Anyone who can ski the most difficult runs comfortably and in control, at a major ski resort, can have a great time with VHSG.

The Tsaina Lodge is one of the newest and nicest heli-ski lodges in North America. All guests have private rooms with Tempur-Pedic beds, private bathrooms and daily laundry service. The Tsaina's bar is legendary in its own right - the fun continues long after the ski day is done. Since 2025, with the acquisition of the Alaska Rendezvous Lodge, we now offer a second premier lodging option just 10 miles down the road. Completely revamped, the Rendezvous features luxurious private yurts, a restaurant and bar, private chefs, personal assistants, concierge services, and its own heli-pad for direct mountain access.

Heli-skiing in Valdez is physically demanding, so we want you in the best shape possible to make the most of every run. In the months before your trip, ski as much as you can to sharpen the skills and strength you'll need, and keep up a year-round routine combining cardio for endurance, strength training for stability, and flexibility work for agility. For a targeted heli-ski preparation workout, we recommend these exercises, aiming for at least three sessions per week in the lead-up to your VHSG trip.