Alaska Powder Descents Heli Skiing
Far too often, heli skiing operators make their packages a commercialized experience catered to the masses, rather than the individual. Alaska Powder Descents (APD) goes against the grain in this regard and offers completely customizable heli skiing packages suited to a range of skiing ability levels.
While not one of the “big names” in the heli skiing industry, APD still maintains an impressive reputation amongst amateurs and professionals alike. The company was founded in 2007 by Alaskan local Dr. Kevin Krein. They regularly work with film crews like Teton Gravity Research and National Geographic, guiding access to some of the craziest terrain found in lower Alaska.
You'll likely get BIGGER POW than in this gorgeous image!
Facts & FAQ
Alaska Powder Descents is headquartered in Juneau, one of the more remote cities in Alaska. Not directly accessible by road, traveling to Juneau requires a direct flight or ferry. Most visitors will catch a connecting flight in Seattle, which will then bring them to Juneau International Airport.
More adventurous and sight-seeing-minded travelers can also enjoy a ferry ride along the Alaska Marine Highway. This is a great way to experience other Alaskan cities and the possibility of whale-watching while out on the sea.
Once in Juneau, travel is easy. The mountain-enclosed city is serviced by Capital Transit – the city’s bus system and rental cars are also available.
APD does not operate its own lodge for its heli skiing guests, but it’s tightly connected to the Baranof Hotel in downtown Juneau. Here, skiers will have the option of single or double occupancy rooms that all come with some standard hotel amenities:
- Fitness Center
- Microwave/Refrigerator/Coffee Maker
- Close access to various shops, restaurants, and bars
- Direct transportation provided by the APD team
Various other hotels, Airbnbs, and vacation rentals are available in the community as well.
Terrain and Difficulty Levels
The region around Juneau features an incredibly diverse portfolio of terrain, and no two heli skiing adventures are alike. Situated along the coastal banks of the Northern Inside Passage, maritime weather conditions can be found here, bringing feet upon feet of snow. Storms are plentiful, with snow falling every month of the year in some locations.
APD operates on over one million acres, with endless opportunities for gnarly lines and mellow cruisers. Some of the most coveted regions in their tenure include the Coast Mountains, Chilkat Range, and the Juneau Icefield.
This operator caters to intermediate, advanced, and expert skiers.
The region around Juneau features an incredibly diverse portfolio of terrain, and no two heli skiing adventures are alike. Situated along the coastal banks of the Northern Inside Passage, maritime weather conditions can be found here, bringing feet upon feet of snow. Storms are plentiful, with snow falling every month of the year in some locations.
APD operates on over one million acres, with endless opportunities for gnarly lines and mellow cruisers. Some of the most coveted regions in their tenure include the Coast Mountains, Chilkat Range, and the Juneau Icefield.
This operator caters to intermediate, advanced, and expert skiers.
APD offers a wide range of packages to meet any heli skier’s needs or budget. The three primary offerings include:
- Daily Packages: Visiting Juneau on a short timeline? APD offers both full and half-day options. Full-day heli skiing includes 5-8 laps and half-day packages include 4 laps.
- Weeklong Package: The standard weeklong package includes 7 days / 7 nights at the Baranof Hotel, 18-22 heli skiing runs, and three days at Eagle Crest resort. All lift tickets and transportation are included, but the food is not.
- Weekend Package: The weekend package contains the same amenities as the weeklong package, just shorter. 3 days/nights at the Baranof are accompanied by one day of heli skiing, and one day of resort skiing.
Consult operator directly regarding current pricing.
As mentioned, APD strives to be as customizable as possible. Private heli skiing groups are accommodated, and guided backcountry touring can be requested. While cat skiing is not provided, this operator facilitates resort riding at Eaglecrest Ski Area in the event of no-fly days.
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Reviews & Comments
Please share a comment or review, if you have skied here! This REALLY helps the heliskiing community! Thank You!
BRADY
5/9/23
Brady is an avid skiing & backcountry enthusiast, aging "big wave" surfer and is totally addicted to heliskiing!
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