Heli-Skiing & Where to SEND IT

HELI-SKIING & WHERE TO SEND IT

Heli-skiing is exhilarating! It’s backcountry skiing or snowboarding that involves accessing remote and untracked mountain terrain via helicopter. Away from crowds and lift lines, heli-skiing gives you the chance to explore untouched powder snow in pristine wilderness areas.

Here's how it works:

• Helicopter Access: Skiers or snowboarders are transported to the top of remote and challenging mountain terrain by a helicopter. The helicopter can access areas that are often difficult or impossible to reach by other means, such as chairlifts or snowcats.

• Untracked Powder Snow: Heli-skiing typically takes place in backcountry areas with deep powder snow, offering a pristine and untouched skiing experience. This attracts experienced skiers and snowboarders seeking fresh tracks and challenging descents.

• Professional Guides: Heli-skiing is guided by experienced and certified mountain guides who are knowledgeable about the terrain, weather conditions, and safety protocols. These guides ensure the safety and well-being of participants during the adventure.

• Safety Precautions: Safety is a top priority in heli-skiing. Participants receive safety briefings, avalanche transceivers, and other necessary equipment. Guides assess snow conditions and potential avalanche risks to make informed decisions about where and when to ski.

• Group Size: Heli-skiing groups are typically small, with a guide-to-client ratio that allows for personalized attention and safety monitoring. Group members should have similar skiing or snowboarding abilities to ensure a cohesive experience.

• Varied Terrain: Heli-skiing terrain can range from open bowls and glades to steep chutes and couloirs. The variety of terrain ensures that participants can find slopes that match their skill level and preferences.

• Fitness Requirements: Heli-skiing demands a good level of physical fitness, as skiing or snowboarding in deep powder snow and challenging terrain can be physically demanding. Participants should be prepared for a full day of skiing or riding.

• Remote Wilderness: Heli-skiing often takes place in remote and pristine wilderness areas, offering a unique connection with nature and breathtaking mountain views.

• Environmental Considerations: Operators of heli-skiing operations are increasingly mindful of environmental impact. They adhere to guidelines to minimize disruption to the ecosystem and wildlife.

Here’s where to go:

Here are some of the best places for heli-skiing around the world:

Alaska, USA:

Renowned for its vast and pristine wilderness, Alaska offers some of the most challenging and rewarding heli-skiing terrain on the planet. Valdez, Haines, and the Chugach Mountains are popular heli-skiing destinations.

British Columbia, Canada:

A mecca for heli-skiing, BC has numerous operators providing access to the deep powder of the Canadian Rockies, Selkirk Mountains, and Coast Mountains. Destinations like Revelstoke, Whistler, and the Purcell Mountains are top picks..

Switzerland:

For breathtaking alpine scenery and exceptional heli-skiing opportunities, try Switzerland. The Swiss Alps provide access to diverse terrain and pristine powder. The Valais and Verbier regions are also popular destinations.

France:

The French Alps offer stunning landscapes and world-class heli-skiing terrain. The Tarentaise Valley, located in the Savoie region, is known for its challenging descents and breathtaking views.

New Zealand:

New Zealand's Southern Alps provide incredible opportunities on the South Island. Operators in the Queenstown and Wanaka areas offer access to remote and untouched terrain.

Canada (Yukon and Northern British Columbia):

The Yukon and northern BC offer remote and less crowded heli-skiing experiences. These regions are known for their deep powder and stunning landscapes.

Iceland:

Iceland's remote fjords and mountains provide a unique heli-skiing experience. Operators offer access to breathtaking terrain and the chance to ski on volcanic slopes.

Chile and Argentina:

The Andes Mountains in South America offer diverse terrain. The Patagonia region, including areas like Bariloche and the Chilean Andes, provides opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in stunning landscapes.

Heli-skiing is an adventure sport for advanced skiers or snowboarders, comfortable skiing in varied snow conditions and challenging terrain. Ftness and experience are required.

It’s essential to choose a reputable heli-skiing operator with experienced guides and a strong safety record. It's also important to be aware of the risks associated with backcountry skiing, including avalanches and changing weather and snow conditions. Careful planning will make for an amazing heli-skiing adventure. Ride on!