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Steep & Deep Ski Safari

North America

Sunset in Alyeska © Alyeska Resort
The Steep & Deep Ski Safari is designed to have thighs throbbing and experienced skiers testing their mettle to the max - take on Mammoth's towering terrain before flying into the last frontier of skiing and snowboarding, otherwise known as Alyeska.
  • Culture
  • Honeymoons
  • Luxury
  • Nightlife
  • Non-Ski Activities
  • Once-in-a-Lifetime
  • Off the Beaten Track
  • Powder
  • Village Charm
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced

Why do we call this ski safari ‘Steep’? Alyeska’s inbound terrain includes North America's longest double black diamond, whilst Mammoth’s Kiwi Flats are renowned for being the most demanding runs on the mountain. Ride the Mothership lift up to 3,000 metres and race down the 51-degree gradient if you dare!

But what about ‘Deep’? Alyeska is one of the world's snowiest destinations, producing over 16 metres of glorious powder each year. Mammoth is not far behind, averaging over 10 metres of snowfall annually. It’s a resort that’s known for its mega snowstorms, creating a deep snowpack that often lasts through to July.

The first destination in California usually produces 300 days of sunshine and plenty of white stuff, so bluebird powder days are practically guaranteed. Whilst the conditions are brilliant, Mammoth’s, well, mammoth terrain has it all and is the perfect place to start. Whether you’re a confident skier looking to find your ski legs amongst the gorgeous tree-lined cruisers or dive straight into the steepest chutes you can find, this legendary resort will cater to your every need.

Direct flights from Los Angeles to Anchorage make the journey between Mammoth and Alyeska more straightforward than you might think. Plus, it’s well worth the journey, for breathtaking sea views, unrivalled side hits and some of the most life-changing powder on the pistes or out in the wilderness. We recommend heli or cat skiing with the Chugach Powder Guides to unlock outstanding terrain and untouched powder.

As previously mentioned, the views here also take Alyeska onto many skiers' bucket lists, especially at night when the Northern Lights frequently make an appearance. Sightings are so regular you can even request a ‘Northern Lights wake-up call’ when staying at the 4* Hotel Alyeska.

They may be more than 2,000 miles apart, but both resorts feature on the Ikon Pass. Seven skiing or snowboarding days included in each is just the right amount for two weeks of steep and deep fun!

"Combine the steepest and most powder-filled resorts in North America, Alyeska in Alaska and Mammoth California, to fulfil your wildest skiing and snowboarding dreams."

Suggested itinerary

Our suggestion for the best way to combine Alyeska with another classic North American resort. All our ski safaris are completely tailor-made and can be adjusted to suit your preferences.

Day 1

Arrive at Los Angeles Airport and collect your car before heading into the heart of the city or away from the hustle and bustle (the choice is yours). Once at your accommodation, we suggest resting up before heading off early the next morning to Mammoth. If you're peckish following an early start in the morning, we recommend stopping for a cookie or cooked breakfast at Alabama Hills Cafe & Bakery along Highway 395.

Days 2 to 8

For the next week, Mammoth and its vast terrain are yours to explore. When you're not having a blast on the slopes, the town of Mammoth Lakes has a fantastic selection of dining options. For couples, our top tip is The Lakefront at Tamarack Lodge where you will find a fine menu of Californian and French cuisine set in very intimate winter surroundings. For drinks, you can't go wrong with sipping a beverage of your choice on The Yodeler's sun deck.

Day 9

Flying to Anchorage to start your Alaskan experience couldn't be easier with direct flights from Los Angeles. We recommend arriving in Anchorage at night. It is a short 60 minute transfer to the resort and if you're lucky you may get to see the Northern Lights along the way!

Days 10 to 13

Although not a giant in size compared to Mammoth, Alyeska Resort has some of the steepest in-bounds terrain in the world. Much of it is "hike to" and well worth the effort, but the resort also boasts North America's longest lift-accessed continuous double black diamond run, in the North Face area of the mountain. It's so much fun for those who are up for a challenge!

Day 14

Once you've familiarised yourself with Alyeska's terrain and enjoyed the spectacular views of Turnagain Arm (made famous by Captain Cook) we recommend experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime day with Alaska's premier heli-ski operator, Chugach Powder Guides, where skiing 20,000 vertical feet is the norm.

Day 15

Take a short 60-minute transfer back to Anchorage, where you'll fly back to the UK.

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Our Prices

Every holiday is tailor-made, just for you.

To give you the most choice and best value, we create every holiday from scratch. This means that the quotation you receive is unique, based on your preferred departure dates, group size and holiday preferences.

We save you time and get the most for your money.

We do all the hard work for you, sifting through the prices and promotions for every airline, hotel and resort, exploring all options. We don’t publish all our prices online, just enough to give you an idea of costs.

Customer Reviews

What our customers say about Steep & Deep Ski Safari.

Very well organised itinerary, hit every connection and flight with time to spare. Excellent price for quality of accommodation and flight packages. Rather poor year for snow in both Whistler and Alyeska, can imagine Alyeska resort would have some excellent steeps in normal snow conditions. North face would provide a real introduction to off piste steeps for a comfortable intermediate. A real pity…
Philip Boulding
17th March 2015
Any customer who books this should be strongly encouraged to book the heli day with CPG - unforgettable, really great company. Why go all that way and not book the heli? Must do. It's not on your itinerary guide on the website but Whistler's back country is amazing and gets away from the crowds.
Rob Williams
16th March 2015
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