Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is sled-skiing?Also known as snowmobile-assisted backcountry skiing, sled skiing is the most efficient way to access the terrain we want to ride. Think of it as your own private, high-speed chairlift. We use high-performance snowmachines (sleds) to access the same technical faces and "honey holes" as the helicopters. You get the same Andes vertical, more laps, and a much more "core" Chilean experience.
Why choosing sled-skiing?
It is very effective. It eliminates the hours of uphill hiking (skinning) required in traditional ski touring, allowing for many more "laps" in a single day. Also, it opens up massive amounts of terrain that are unreachable by foot or chairlift. Moreover, it is cost efficient. it is usually more affordable than heli-skiing or cat-skiing trips. Furthermore, it is not as intensive as heliskiing. you get to have breaks as you please, and ride at your own pace. It really fills the gap between both activities.
what is the basic equipment required?A backpack with a transceiver, prove, shovel. We also recommend you carry a face mask, extra water and gloves, snacks, clothing, and sunscreen, besides the usual ski atuendo. And finally, a Ski/Board. AVI gear rentals are available upon request.
What happens if the road to Cajon Del Maipo closes during weather days?We wait patiently until the road crews clear the road. Then we assess the snow and go out accordantly. We have 3 different ski zones to choose depending on conditions. We are flexible and we make our best to accommodate everyone.
Do I need to know how to ride a snowmobile?You’re riding with a Chilean-American pro who’s been riding Chile since the 90s. Snowboard Champion With a podium history in the FWTQ, our Lead Guide knows these mountains better than the corporate ops—because he helped build the culture here. AAA Pro 1 & WFR Certified. Guides in Chile and AK
Where do we meet?We meet at Lo Valdes at the end of the Highway where the road ends and the snow begin. In any case we will in touch to agree in an exact meeting point in town. We are the "Mobile Basecamp" at the heart of the action
Why ski/ride with us?OG EXCELLENCE: Guided by a Chilean Snowboard Veteran & Tailgate Alaska Original. Up to date AAA Pro1 and WFR Certifications
CHILEAN POWDER, ALASKAN WINTERS: International pro-guiding with local Chilean and Alaskan roots.
MAX VERTICAL: High-speed sled laps on the same technical faces the heli-ops claim as theirs.
Full Chilean Government Compliance
Alaskan Connection: Come ride with us during March & April www.sledskiingalaska.com
Who is the lead guide?Not at all. For our sledskiing sessions, you are the passenger. Our pro guides handle the driving while you sit on front “ Alaskan Style” a proven and trusted way to safely carry customers. We drop you at the summit, you rip the line, and we meet you at the bottom to do it again.
Is this legal? Are you permitted?Yes. Sled Skiing Chile is a licensed Chilean business. We operate under private owner land use agreements and are fully compliant with all City of San Jose de Maipo adventure tourism and land-use regulations. We pay our visitor fees and support the local Lo Valdes economy.