In true Urban Dictionary fashion, the definition for the slang term "gnar pow" -- short for "gnarly powder" is a classy example of modern eloquence:
"Gnar Pow: When the lord above rains down with the white fluffy stuff till it's creepin' on your nether regions."
In recent years, gnar pow has inexplicably become a popular term amongst those in pursuit of fresh snowfall for their skiing or snowboarding pleasure. Alyeska, Alaska's largest ski resort, doesn't open until Nov. 23. But for anyone jonesing for some early-season downhill action, where better than Thompson Pass, north of Valdez?
In 1953, Thompson Pass set the record for snowfall over the course of seven days, a total of 186.9 inches. The total snowfall for that year came to a whopping 974 inches.
It's no wonder then that Thompson Pass is a popular destination for heli-boarding or heli-skiing. YouTube user givemeabreak008 and a group of friends took advantage of that fact in this video -- spending the day getting dropped at the top of pristine peaks and taking advantage of some of the freshest snowfall in the world.
But if the GoPro isn't cutting it for you, and you're still trying to get jazzed about the upcoming downhill skiing and snowboarding season, you could always check out the trailer for "The Art of Flight" if you want a more extreme example of some intense heli-boarding -- coupled with equally extreme production values.
And if that doesn't get you pumped up for the season, well, then, we can't help you.
Our Alaska takes a look at the people, places, activities and wildlife that make Alaska great. There's the Alaska that many people know from reality television, and then there's Our Alaska. If you have a video that puts the spotlight on the positive, educational or unique aspects of Alaska and its people, send links or submissions to ben(at)alaskadispatch.com.