A skiers journey to the end of the world for one of lifes best adventures.
Even among seasoned skiers, few realize you’re able to do it in Antarctica.
Its the coldest, windiest, and driest place on Earth.
Credit:Nicola McPherson
Skiing in Antarctica can be difficult and expensive, but with the right preparation, you might do it.
There are no ski resorts, chairlifts, or even primitive potties.
Its fraught with danger, including avalanches, crevasses, and unpredictable extreme weather.
Nicola McPherson
If things go awry, theres no access to emergency services.
Ski touring, also known as backcountry skiing, is the only way to accomplish this.
After booking the voyage, Aurora Expeditions ski guide prepared us for what to expect.
Melissa McGibbon
By early October, I had logged more than 80 ski days and 35 high-altitude hikes.
I was nervous, but ready.
By the time we reached the South Shetland Islands, we were more than 9,000 miles away from home.
Nicola McPherson
On the first possible ski day, we got lucky and landed at Deception Island.
As the penguin rejoined its friends farther down the shore, we readied our gear.
The ascent was an easy 1,157 feet, granting us sweeping views of the island and Whalers Bay.
Melissa McGibbon
Still, it counted.
We tried a second tour in Selvik Cove, but that, too, was a no-go.
Our third day of skiing brought us to the most beautiful place Ive ever been.
Flanked by the Penola Strait and the Southern Ocean, the island presents resplendent views from its snowy slopes.
Skiing down brought me pure joy.
I reflected on how rare this perspective was.
The only way to see this particular panorama is by hiking or ski touring.
In all of human existence, how many people could have possibly seen this view?
How many have skied its lines?
The day we had was a rare privilege, and we knew it.
We decided to do a second lap to get as many turns as possible.
My photos and videos don’t do it justice, but at least reminded me it was real.
Even though our last ski day was thwarted due to wind and an incoming storm, I felt fortunate.
Out of six potential days to ski in Antarctica, our plans were disrupted only twice.
When you consider how much has to go right to make each day happen, we were downright lucky.
