by Zach Tolby
My life was forever changed when when my parents took me to watch Steeper and Deeper in 1992. While watching one of the big mountain powder scenes I remember turning to a friend and saying, “I want to do that”. Ever since then skiing has been a major part of my life. 20 years later I finally got my chance.
In April I got the opportunity to go to Points North Heli in Cordova Alaska. Skiing in the Chugach is an experience of a lifetime. I was very fortunate; the weather cooperated perfectly for my trip during a winter that was less than optimal in Alaska. When I arrived snow was falling in the mountains for the first time in weeks. I ran into an old comrade of mine from Squaw Valley, Paul G. who ending up being my guide. Paul and I had done avalanche control together and having someone I knew and trusted to be my guide was an unexpected bonus.
Not only does the Chugach have amazing terrain, but Points North will take you to the big lines. The first two days were amazing as we tested the snow conditions and Paul tested our skiing ability. The last day our group requested to ski a line called Oz, because it is one of the biggest most picturesque couloirs I have ever seen. Oz is 50 to 55 degrees and over 3000 vertical feet. When our heli turned towards it on the second run of our last day, my heart started pounding. Sitting at the top waiting for Paul to call us down had to have been the longest 10 minutes of my life.
Even after skiing at Squaw for over 10 years, including a couple years patrolling, I can tell you the Chugach is on another level. It is easily worth the cost, if you get good weather, and don’t forget what Warren Miller said, “If you don’t do it this year, you’ll be one year older when you do”.
Dude, you sure didn’t do any of those couloirs justice.. link some turns already.
Another level than Squaw? That’s not saying much.
SELL me on this trip!!