© 2026 Girdwood Backcountry Guides. All Rights Reserved. GBG is an equal opportunity guide service provider operating under special user permits with the Chugach National Forest, Alaska State Parks, and Heritage Land Bank MOA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What types of tours do you offer?
We offer several guided backcountry skiing and snowboarding experiences based out of Girdwood, Alaska, and Palmer, Alaska:
- Half-Day Tours – Ideal if you want a shorter outing or a first taste of the backcountry.
- Full-Day Tours – Perfect for exploring deeper terrain and earning more turns.
- Helicopter-Accessed Tours (New for Winter 2025/26) – Offered in partnership with a local helicopter charter company for advanced riders seeking remote Chugach lines.
Q2: Where are you based, and what terrain do you cover?
We are based in Girdwood, Alaska (home of Alyeska Resort). Some of our guides also live in Palmer, Alaska, where Melanee grew up. Our guides operate throughout the Chugach, Kenai, and Talkeetna Mountains, offering access to some of Southcentral Alaska’s best terrain.
Q3: What level of experience is required to join a tour?
We welcome all ability levels for our Half-Day and Full-Day tours.
- For newer backcountry skiers and riders, our guides will help you learn and progress safely.
- For experienced backcountry travelers, we recommend a Full-Day Tour for greater adventure and vertical.
- Our Helicopter-Accessed Tours are aimed at intermediate to expert riders with prior touring experience.
Q4: What gear do I need to bring?
You’ll need: skis or snowboard with touring bindings (or splitboard), skins, boots, poles, avalanche safety gear (transceiver/beacon, shovel, probe; avalanche airbag recommended), and appropriate backcountry outerwear (layers, helmet, gloves, goggles).
- We provide avalanche safety instruction and group safety gear.
- A detailed gear list will be included in your booking confirmation.
Q5: What about safety and avalanche risk?
Safety is our top priority. Our guides are local avalanche professionals with deep experience in Alaska’s mountains. We continuously evaluate weather, snowpack, and terrain to manage risk responsibly.
That said, backcountry skiing and snowboarding inherently involve risk. By joining Girdwood Backcountry Guides, you accept a level of that risk. We’ll clearly discuss hazards, help you understand what you’re getting into, and tailor terrain to your comfort level.
Our goal is transparency, communication, and safety throughout your adventure—please ask questions anytime.
Q6: How do I book a tour, and what is the cost?
To book, use the “Book Now” link on our website or contact us directly via phone or email.
We’ll confirm availability, tour type, group size, and send booking details and payment instructions.
- Rates vary depending on tour type, duration, and group size.
Q7: What is your cancellation and refund policy?
- 30+ days notice: Full refund, minus a 5% transaction fee.
- 10–30 days notice: 50% refund.
- Less than 10 days: Non-refundable.
We recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected cancellations or weather delays.
Q8: What size are your guide/guest groups?
We maintain a 1 guide: 5 guest ratio or better to ensure personalized attention, safety, and high-quality terrain management.
- All tours are PRIVATE per booking party—your group will not be combined with others.
Q9: What’s the best time of year for a tour?
The prime backcountry season in Southcentral Alaska runs February – April. Snow conditions and daylight hours are typically best during this window, though Alaska weather can always bring surprises!
Q10: How do I get to Girdwood, and where do I stay?
Girdwood is about 1 hour south of Anchorage International Airport via the scenic Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm.
Lodging options include:
- Alyeska Resort (ski-in/ski-out)
- The Carriage House, Alyeska Hideaway Cabins, and The Ski Inn
We’re happy to provide personalized lodging recommendations when you book.
Q11: What if I’m injured, or snow/weather conditions change?
Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and rescue. Due to the remote nature of Alaska’s mountains, evacuation can take time, and conditions can change rapidly. If weather or avalanche risk increases, we may modify terrain, shorten the day, or reschedule to keep everyone safe.
Q12: Can I bring my own group or private tour?
Yes — all of our tours are private. We also offer group discounts for 6 or more guests. Contact us to customize your outing’s route, logistics, and guide staffing to fit your group’s goals.
Q13: Do you offer instruction or training days (e.g., avalanche safety or ski technique)?
Yes. While our main focus is guided touring, our guides can incorporate skills coaching, avalanche awareness, and terrain management instruction into any tour.
Let us know if you’d like a more educational focus when booking.
Q14: What are the weather and snow conditions like?
Conditions in Alaska’s backcountry vary daily—from deep powder to wind-buffed snow to spring corn. Early winter can have limited coverage, while spring brings longer days and variable snow. We monitor conditions closely and choose terrain that best fits the weather and your ability level.
- We’ll update you before your trip with the latest snow and weather info.
Q15: What if I don’t have all the gear—can you help?
Yes. If you need to rent skis, splitboards, or avalanche gear, we can connect you with reputable local shops:
These shops provide high-quality backcountry rental gear for touring in Alaska.
© 2026 Girdwood Backcountry Guides. All Rights Reserved. GBG is an equal opportunity guide service provider operating under special user permits with the Chugach National Forest, Alaska State Parks, and Heritage Land Bank MOA.