Women’s Valdez Ski Mountaineering Camp  

Thompson Pass & Valdez, AK

All women, trans, and femme identifying individuals are welcome in this space.

Step into the world of big mountain skiing & riding with a supportive cohort for this 6-day lodge-based immersive program in Valdez, AK. Together, we will help you gain the education, experience, and confidence to take on bigger objectives in glaciated terrain & the high-alpine. 

  • Welcome to your new favorite summer camp, but for adults! Except this camp is in the spring, and we subbed the lake for the legendary mountains of Thompson Pass, AK. Join us for a week filled with excitement, world-class skiing, and lasting community & connections. 

    We will be based in town in Valdez, AK, which will allow us to rest up and refuel for big ski days on Thompson Pass. Each day will bring something different, where our ski camp style really shines. Our guides will plan multiple route options and groups for each day - allowing you to pick from a selection of terrain types, ski & riding styles, and objectives based on what you are interested in.  

    Through a combination of supportive learning, guided travel, and real-world decision-making, you'll develop a deeper understanding of mountain travel, route planning, glacier travel, snowpack assessment, and risk management in complex alpine environments. Each day offers opportunities to apply new skills while exploring some of Alaska's most spectacular terrain alongside a supportive group of like-minded women.

    At the heart of this program is our company ethos and a commitment to fostering an inclusive, empowering, and collaborative learning environment. We are maintaining small guided groups so we can prioritize creating a space where all voices are heard, questions are encouraged, and participants are supported in making choices that align with their personal goals and comfort levels. There is never pressure to ski or ride terrain that feels beyond your readiness.

    • Level 1 Recreational Avalanche Course (highly recommended to have taken a Rescue Course and/or Level 2) 

    • Two seasons of backcountry skiing or riding experience

    • Ability to ski or ride off-piste/black diamond terrain inbounds

  • Our Women's Ski Mountaineering Camp is based in the legendary ski town of Valdez, Alaska—home to some of the most iconic ski mountaineering terrain in North America. Throughout the week, we'll stay together in a comfortable shared home in town, creating a welcoming space to relax, learn, and connect after long days in the mountains.

    Each morning, we'll make the scenic drive to Thompson Pass, where towering peaks, expansive glaciers, and endless ski objectives surround us. Known for its deep snowpack and incredible terrain variety, Thompson Pass offers the perfect classroom for developing ski mountaineering skills. From efficient uphill travel and route finding to terrain assessment and backcountry decision-making, participants will have the opportunity to learn and practice in a truly world-class environment.

    Evenings are spent back in Valdez, where we can debrief the day, enjoy each other’s company, and prepare for the next adventure. By combining comfortable accommodations with daily access to Alaska's renowned ski terrain, this camp offers the ideal balance of mountain immersion, skill development, and community.

    Whether you're looking to build confidence in the backcountry, expand your ski mountaineering toolkit, or simply experience Alaska's incredible mountains alongside a group of motivated women, Valdez provides an unforgettable setting for growth and adventure.

  • Day 0 (March 18): 

    • Travel day: Make your way to Valdez, AK. 

    • 7pm: We will gather together, get to know each other, get settled into our home, and brief the week. 

    Provided: Lodging

    Day 1: 

    • Group breakfast 

    • Rescue skills practice 

    • Group backcountry tour to the Worthington Glacier 

    • Group Dinner in Valdez 

    Provided: Breakfast, Lodging, Dinner 

    Day 2: 

    • Group breakfast 

    • Thompson Pass backcountry skiing 

    Provided: Breakfast, Lodging

    Day 3:

    • Group breakfast 

    • Thompson Pass backcountry skiing 

    Provided: Breakfast, Lodging

    Day 4: 

    • Group breakfast 

    • Thompson Pass backcountry skiing 

    Provided: Breakfast, Lodging

    Day 5: 

    • Group breakfast 

    • Thompson Pass backcountry skiing 

    • Group Dinner in Valdez 

    Provided: Breakfast, Lodging, Dinner 

    Day 6: 

    • Group breakfast 

    • Explore the Valdez Glacier or shorter tour

    • Checkout of lodging 

    • Group debrief - concluding around 3pm 

    Provided: Breakfast

  • Included:

    • Wilderness permits 

    • Guides

    • Lodging (Including the night before Day 1)

    • Breakfast Every Day

    • Two Group Dinners

    • Group Glacier Gear

    Not Included:

    • Flights/Transportation to Valdez 

    • Daily Transportation to Thompson Pass 

    • Lunches/snacks

    • Independent Dinners (Lodging has a kitchen. There are also restaurants in walking distance)

    • Personal Ski Gear 

    • Trip Insurance

  • After signing up, you will receive a confirmation email containing an informational packet with a gear list, and more specific information for your trip.

    3 months before the trip, you will receive an email from your guides to connect you with others in the group.

    2 weeks before the trip, we will send you another email with additional details and conditions.

Price: $2800

2027 Dates:

  • March 19 - 24

  • April 1-6

Difficulty: Advanced

Note: If a week is full, please email contact@upwardtransitionsinstitute.com to be added to the waitlist!