For the last two years I’ve been able to come to Haines to helicopter ski with Southeast Alaska Backcountry Adventures. I’m 49 years old and have skied with the best heli-ski operations in Canada and Valdez. The SEABA operation is the equal of any in the world in terms of professionalism and safety, and when combined with Haines and the beautiful region they get to ski in, they offer simply the best alpine skiing experience in the world. A big part of the attraction of skiing with SEABA is Haines itself – for a small town you kind of have it all. When I’m in Haines, I know I’ll have access to a safe airport, a great local clinic, some really good restaurants, a good museum, and retail shopping I would expect in a much larger town.
Because I enjoy coming to Haines so much, it concerns me that heli-skiing and SEABA don’t seem to have the best press or the smoothest relations with the local powers that be. Some of the runs I skied the first year near the airport were not available this past season. I found this a bit surprising since airports by definition imply that there will be aircraft operating in their vicinity. Ski-touring and heli-skiing can be a significant part of the tourism pie, and a positive thing for Haines businesses. The word on Haines as the ultimate ski destination for expert skiers is getting out. I hope the community continues to welcome us.
Jason Gregg
Aspen, Colo.