SMG helicopter flying through the Chugach MountainsHeli ski group on a Seward summitSMG guides with guests in the Northern ChugachSnowboarder on a Seward ridgelineAlpenglow on a Seward peakFresh tracks above the clouds in the Northern ChugachSMG helicopter at sunrise above a sea of cloudsSunset view from the helicopter cockpitSkier overlooking the fjords at sunset

Modified H125 — exclusively outfitted for SMG

Guest experiences · Alaska heli skiing

What guests say about SMG Alaska Heli Ski

SMG Alaska Heli Ski · Girdwood, Alaska · Since 2008

Google rating
5.0Google rating
Seasons in Alaska
19+Seasons in Alaska
Guide-to-guest ratio
2:4Guide-to-guest ratio
5-star reviews
100%5-star reviews

Featured Google review

It's hard to put into words what the past 10 years of heli-skiing with this crew have meant to us. What began as an incredible adventure has become one of our favorite traditions and has given us some of our most unforgettable memories in the mountains. People often describe heli-skiing as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For us, it has become so much more than that. And while the skiing itself is absolutely incredible, it's the people who keep bringing us back.

SHSandra HyraGoogle review · 10 seasons with SMG
JOJan OtavskyGoogle review · Returning guest

26 runs in one day

This is an amazing operation. The owner's knowledge of snow conditions along with access to multiple zones means you're guaranteed great conditions. I've been multiple times and have never been let down. The guides and safety protocols are top-notch. The wizard will guarantee your powder fix is fulfilled. We literally did 26 runs in one day, as long as you can still walk the heli will keep flying… guaranteed the best runs of your life.

DBDarrick BroerGoogle review · 4 seasons with SMG

Above and beyond

I have been skiing with SMG Alaska Heli Ski for the last 4 seasons. Aaron and his team go above and beyond to find clients the best snow and terrain, while maintaining a focus on safety.

JMJosh MuzzyGoogle review · Nearly three decades

The kings & queens of stoke

I've been skiing / boarding with SMG, Aaron, Jenny, Skyler, Chris & Josh for nearly three decades now and each adventure is a memory for a lifetime! Safety is number one with SMG with top notch world class guides — they will always get you to the goods! I'm proud to call them family and wouldn't fly with anyone else! They are truly the kings & queens of STOKE!

GGregGoogle review · Over a decade of seasons

Coming back each season feels like a reunion

I've been skiing with these guys for over a decade. I have as much respect for them as the terrain they take me to. The professionalism they exhibit is unmatched, even though I consider them all friends at this point. Coming back each season feels like a reunion. Doing what I love, and connecting with others that are just as passionate about it, is pretty special.

TPTadd PerkinsGoogle review · Local Guide · 33 reviews

10+ seasons of mid-winter powder

I've been going skiing with SMG Alaska for over 10 seasons so I'm a little biased. But skiing during the cold mid-winter months with small groups on incredible terrain really suits me. They structure the trip to the group, going as far as the group's abilities can safely go. Compared to other operations, this small group model allows us to fly to other mountain ranges when the Northern Chugach gets socked in. Based at Girdwood during the Alyeska ski season has never left me wanting for other activities, whether that was skiing the resort, ice climbing or rock climbing at the Anchorage Climbing Gym. The guides are professional, exceptional and friendly. I'll keep coming back as long as they let me!

MHM HyraGoogle review · 15 years of trips

First-class operation, safety first

I've been lucky enough to meet Aaron and the crew about 15 years ago, and I've booked at least one trip with them every year since. They fly some of the best equipment in Alaska, and the guides (Josh, Coulter and Skylar) are incredibly knowledgeable — they really go out of their way to make every trip the best it can be. Fun per run is the plan. Safety is clearly a top priority. The operation places a strong emphasis on well-maintained aircraft and experienced pilots. The booking process (with Blair) has always been smooth and straightforward, with clear communication making planning easy from the first inquiry through to the final details. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a first-class heli-ski experience in Alaska.

SHSandra HyraGoogle review · A decade with the crew

Not once-in-a-lifetime — a tradition

Over the years, we have come to trust this crew completely. The guides are exceptionally knowledgeable and professional, and we have always felt safe in their hands. They know the mountains, understand the conditions, and have an incredible ability to find the best snow and terrain for everyone in the group. Whether we're looking for something challenging, playful, or simply a spectacular day in the mountains, they consistently deliver. The huge permitted area means there is always something new to explore, and after 10 years, we still leave every trip already thinking about the next one.

As seen in

Forbes Magazine

"The most unique heli operation on the planet."

The Wall Street Journal

Recognized for excellence in heli skiing by one of the world's most trusted business publications.

SnowBrains

With small group sizes and two attentive guides per group, SMG provides the best guide-to-client ratios anywhere in Alaska.