Operated byAmerican Alpine InstituteGuide Service

Checked by Powderscape · 2026-09-24

DestinationPika Glacier (Little Switzerland), Alaska Range, Alaska, United StatesAlaska
DatesMay 1 – May 11, 20272026/27
Duration11 days
Trip typeBackcountry Touring / Splitboard TripSki + Snowboard

Step into one of the wildest mountain environments on Earth on this 11-day ski mountaineering and splitboard expedition in the Alaska Range.

Designed for experienced backcountry skiers and riders, this program combines glacier travel, expedition camping, technical alpine climbing, and classic ski descents deep in remote terrain accessible only by ski plane.

From the trip description by American Alpine Institute

  1. Independent: Below this trip's level of support

    Ski or ride independently, without trip staff accompanying you on the mountain.

  2. Hosted: With your guide

    Trip hosts ski or ride with the group, help everyone get oriented, and share local knowledge.

  3. Guided: Included

    Professional guides lead the group and select suitable terrain and routes based on conditions and ability.

  4. Coached: Included

    Professional coaches lead the group, select suitable terrain, and provide instruction and personalized feedback to help you improve.

  • CourseUnder the guidance of professional ski mountaineering guides, students will develop expedition systems, glacier travel techniques, crevasse rescue skills, and efficient movement on snow, ice, and steep terrain.
  • Backcountry guidingProfessional AAI Mountain Guides’ leadership, services, and instruction; $6,995 at a 3:1 climber to guide ratio.
  • 1 guide : 3 guests
BeginnerIntermediateAdvancedExpert
Suits Advanced to Expert riders
Prerequisites
  • Backpacking experience
  • Excellent physical condition
  • Backcountry skiing or splitboarding experience
  • Ability to confidently ride on variable terrain up to 40-degrees.
Highlights
  • Build a strong foundation in glaciated ski mountaineering, including rope travel, crevasse rescue, camp systems, and efficient movement in complex alpine terrain.
  • Climb and ski multiple peaks in the Alaska Range under the mentorship of experienced professional ski mountaineering guides.
  • Gain experience navigating real Alaskan conditions, from storm management and whiteout travel to steep descents on big mountain terrain where adaptability matters as much as technical skill.
Who you ride with
Sport
Ski + Snowboard

From the trip description by American Alpine Institute

Included

  • Lodging · partly
  • Meals · partly
  • Lesson
  • Transfers · partly
  • Tents, group cooking and climbing equipment, custom expedition sleds
  • Ski plane flights to and from the glacierPrinted as "Ski plane flights to and from the Kahiltna glacier".
  • Professional AAI Mountain Guides’ leadership, services, and instruction
  • Ski plane flights to and from the Kahiltna glacier
  • Meals while in the mountains
  • Tents and group cooking equipment
  • Breakfast and dinner on the mountain
  • Group climbing equipment (ropes, snow/ice protection, wands, etc.)
  • Custom expedition sleds

Not included

  • Food and lodging in town
  • Personal equipment
  • Lunch and snacks
  • Rescue and evacuation expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Guide gratuities

Not confirmed by the operator: Lift pass.

United States · Pika Glacier (Little Switzerland)

Pins show the approximate main trip area—not a route, meeting point, or full itinerary. Confirm exact locations in the company's trip details.

See it on the trip map
  • May 1 – May 11, 20272026/27 · 11 days
    6,995 USD$6,995 (3:1 Climber to Guide Ratio) per person; the page shows "$" without naming a currency; USD read from the US-based operator
    Limited
    Choose these datesBook on company website

    Published in the Available Dates table as "May 1, 2027 – May 11, 2027, $6995, 5 Spots Available".

Prices, taxes and fees, required extras, inclusions, availability, and booking terms can change. Confirm the current price and trip details on the company website; source last reviewed September 24, 2026.

This program can be booked as a private trip with custom start and end dates. Pricing depends on number of participants and number of days.

From the trip description by American Alpine Institute

Reviews reflect the named reviewer's experience and link to their original source. Powderscape does not verify individual claims.