Let’s be honest—it’s Alaska. The weather is bound to throw some challenges our way. If we’re lucky, we get endless turns down epic mountains and across massive glaciers. But if Mother Nature throws us a storm or two? No worries—we’ve got Dome Life!

With the Mountain Hardwear Space Station Dome, our backcountry ski trips never get old. This incredible piece of gear is basically like bringing a living room and kitchen to the mountains. The best part? Snow is modular, so we can design our space however we like.

Flashback to early May 2025. As returning guides for St. Elias Alpine Guides, we were lucky enough to spend nine unforgettable days ski mountaineering in Alaska, exploring glaciers and skiing sweet lines. We skied, climbed, and reveled in the wild beauty of the mountains—although, of course, Mother Nature kept us on our toes with changing avalanche conditions and small systems rolling through. But as clever, brilliant, and charming guides (at least we like to think so), we brought The Dome along!

The Dome isn’t just any piece of equipment—it’s a game-changer. When you’re out skiing in the epic Wrangell Mountains or basecamping under the veil of the St. Elias peaks, you can set up the dome however you like.

One rendition we created on my trip featured a large round table in the center, a walk-around path, and a spacious bench outside the circle. This setup gave our group of nine a dedicated space to cook, relax, store gear, and hang out. We had draped gloves and jackets from the ceiling, created a cozy environment, and even enjoyed a stretch circle led by one of our guides during a stormy down day. This was a great space to practice skills, pour over maps, and game plan for when the weather cleared.

The Dome truly completes the ski basecamp experience. Having skied extensively in Alaska, I can honestly say that skiing never fails to be incredible—it’s Alaska, after all. But add the Dome into the mix, and it elevates the entire vibe! It brings the team together in a comfortable, sheltered space, keeping everyone warmer and more connected. Meal times become more fun—guides cook, guests chat, play cards, or just relax while waiting out a storm. You can even huddle for warmth or toss in a movie if the weather turns especially grim.

We all seek adventure, pushing ourselves into the mountains to witness their spectacular beauty. The Dome doesn’t take away from that raw wilderness experience—in fact, it enhances it. At the end of a hard day, instead of sitting hunched in your tent, you can kick back, recover properly, and prepare for the next day’s adventures. It keeps the spirit alive and the fire burning.

Come on a ski base camp trip with St. Elias Alpine Guides and experience the mountains in style. Dome Life is in. Dome Life is now. #DomeLife