Helicopter skiing in Thompson Pass, a past site of the World Extreme Skiing Championships, has boomed as word of the area’s favourable skiing conditions has spread. The location of the pass – one of the highest points on the Richardson Highway, where it crosses the Chugach mountain range – has proved ideal.

Helicopter guiding services such as Alaska Backcountry Adventures set skiers atop mountains for a day of schussing down breathtakingly precipitous slopes. Although local guides are knowledgeable about avalanche risks, you, too, should be trained to assess dangers, know precautions, and bring appropriate gear.

If you prefer summer activities, you will find the meadows and mountains here great for summer walks. The pass, which lies above tree line, is covered with lovely alpine wildflowers such as fireweed, lupine, and mountain harebell.