Greenland Heliskiing

The first runs we did the day we arrived were already so impressive. It is quite impossible to describe. Even though I have been skiing all winter in Verbier, I was completely euphoric with my first run with these clients. How could that be after a full winter’s season under my belt? Certainly the views of the Fjords, the powder snow quality, the terrain and the feeling of the boundless area before us was part of the reason. I don’t know. But what I see and feel is the most amazing awareness with all of us here together. I was into summer/rock climbing mode back in Verbier, but look out my window from Kangaamiut to the mountains and sea and am so happy to be back again.

And that was just the first day! Yesterday, we skied the Kangaamiut Couloir for the second time in the 10 years I have been coming here. Landing at 2000 meters in a tiny slot on the edge of a cliff, we skied fine powder down to corn snow, an enchanting line, squeezed between an icy, glacial, bulge and a granite cliff, 2000 meters long!

Every area we visit seems to have its own special character. Every day is so different than the previous. Conditions are again fantastic, yet completely different than I have ever experienced. It is -10 at 2000 meters, but it is hot on the sunny slopes. This is leaving powder perfect on the north slopes.

And I have not yet described the tiny island we live on, nor the food we are eating at Regina’s house. The Muskox is delicious, the fresh Halibut in a breaded curry sauce was mouth watering and the Reindeer for tonight will certainly be scrumptious. We are getting to know all the locals, walking about town in the evening.

It’s great to be back. I can’t wait to get out for another run!

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About Hans Solmssen

I am a professional mountain guide living in Verbier, Switzerland. I grew up on the Big Island of Hawaii after my father moved to Hawaii to teach at Hawaii Preparatory Academy. He created a horse program at this high school, located in the middle of the largest, privately owned cattle ranch in the US. Horses were a major part of my life, even playing polo for a few years. I moved to northern Vermont to go to school, and discovered skiing. Little did I know, this would become my life's passion: guiding friends and clients over the mountains around the world on skis and foot. I moved to Verbier, Switzerland in 1982, and entered the Swiss guide's program in '88. I received my UIAGM "pin" 3 years later in 1991. I have two kids, Anya and Kevin.

2 thoughts on “Greenland Heliskiing

  1. hans Post author

    Wish you were here Dude. Last week was monumental! I thought about my week with you guys and Doug in 2004. Conditions are so darned good right now that I almost forget how I couldn’t wait to get my butt in the water and my kite over my head last week.

    Aloha, Hans

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