Nick, a seasoned heli ski guide, finds joy and fulfillment in the expansive outdoor winterscape of Alaska. Brought up in the peaks of Colorado, he honed his skills navigating through the contrasting terrains of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. His boundless affection for nature resonates in his choice of hobbies, which primarily revolves around the adrenaline-boosting world of speedflying, skiing, and snow machining, supplemented by peaceful pastimes of hunting and fishing.
In 2010, he traded the rugged landscapes of home for Alaska’s icy expanse, intensifying his thirst for adventure and exploration. His courageous exploits, however, do not merely cater to personal thrill but echo a broader mission. As a heli ski guide, he escorts others through alpine landscapes, sharing the exhilarating joy and profound beauty of the wild outdoors. He lights the path for fellow adventurers, infusing enthusiasm and awe, showcasing the sheer magnificence of nature.
Nick’s relationship with the Third Edge family is an integral part of his adventurous journey. His spirit, tenacity and passion for the outdoors align seamlessly with the values that Third Edge upholds. He proudly embodies the Third Edge ethos, dedicating himself to a life of boundary-pushing exploration and encapsulating the spirit of adventure. As a proud member of the Third Edge family, Nick continues to narrate his thrilling story, inspiring others to connect with the beautiful dance between nature and adrenaline-fueled excitement.
Mike Welch started his ski career working as a ski patroller at Hilltop Ski Area in Anchorage, Alaska (294 vertical feet).Working outside and on skis was too much of a draw and Mike took the slippery slide into a lifetime in the ski industry. Mike has patrolled at Arctic Valley Ski Area (1214’) and Alyeska Resort (2500’) in Alaska and Alta Ski Area in Utah (2538’). Bigger mountains called. Mike put in over a decade and a half at Chugach Powder Guides, moving from following guide to lead guide to snow safety director.
Mike now splits time between his own company, Sundog Ski Guides (as many vertical as you can hike) and Third Edge Heli (UNLIMITED vertical feet). Contrary to how it may seem, Mike is not about counting vert, but rather he likes really long runs and big mountains. His ski patrol roots bring a work ethic and grit that shows, Mike is not afraid to get dirty to make sure you have an amazing time out in the mountains.
