Peak Elevation
6,500 ft
1,981 m
Vertical Drop
3,500 ft
1,067 m
Skiable Area
160,000 ac
64,752 ha
Avg Snowfall
552 in
1402 cm
Lifts
N/A
About
Thompson Pass is a legendary backcountry and heli-skiing destination in the Chugach Mountains near Valdez, Alaska, renowned for receiving some of the highest snowfall totals in the world. The area offers over 160,000 acres of glaciated terrain with massive vertical drops of up to 6,200 feet, making it a premier hub for extreme skiing and snowboarding. It serves as the birthplace of big mountain heli-skiing and hosts annual events like Tailgate Alaska for expert riders.
Terrain
Lifts & Conditions
Data validated from official sources but may be incomplete or outdated. Always verify with the resort directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the vertical drop at Thompson Pass?
Thompson Pass has a vertical drop of 3,500 feet (1,067 meters).
What is the peak elevation of Thompson Pass?
The summit of Thompson Pass sits at 6,500 feet (1,981 meters) above sea level.
How big is the skiable terrain at Thompson Pass?
Thompson Pass covers 160,000 acres (64,752 hectares) of skiable terrain.
Does Thompson Pass offer night skiing?
No, Thompson Pass does not offer night skiing.
Does Thompson Pass have snowmaking?
No, Thompson Pass relies on natural snowfall and does not operate snowmaking equipment.
How much snow does Thompson Pass get each year?
Thompson Pass averages around 552 inches (1402 cm) of snowfall per season.
How long is the longest run at Thompson Pass?
The longest run at Thompson Pass is approximately 2.5 miles (4.0 km).