Heli-skiing is no longer just for the experts
No longer is helicopter-skiing reserved for experts. Here are some tips to make it attainable
It’s akin to a surfer hitting that once-in-a-lifetime wave, or a hockey buff skating next to their childhood NHL hero. For many skiers and snowboarders, heli-skiing looms large as the ultimate alpine experience.
Why? The feelings can’t be beat. The powder, the swirl of white crystals, the waves of snow that hit you like soft explosions across your face. It’s like floating through white gold.
Don’t fear if you are an intermediate skier or snowboarder. The heli-grail of skiing and snowboarding can be within reach.
Here are 10 tips to becoming a powder pig.
1. School is not just for kids: Before you get started, it’s a good idea to continue to take ski lessons at your local ski area. Get yourself to an intermediate level of ability or better before you go, so you can make the most of the powder experience.
2. Fear of flying? Don’t fret. Only the best pilots work this industry, and all have a huge number of hours of flying time under their belts. Most critically, much of that flying time has taken place in the mountains in adverse weather conditions, including hairy landings in remote and rugged terrain.
3. Wallet not ready? There are more affordable heliskiing options. In fact Purcell Heli-Skiing offers a package for $770 a day, which is less expensive than some cat skiing operations.
4. Don’t have the time? Don’t fret. You can take a daylong heli-ski trip. Day trips like those offered at Purcell Heli-Skiing are a great way to get a taste of heli-skiing. The key is to watch the weather and snow forecasts and pick a day right after the storm has moved through. Contact the heli-ski operator and ask for first-hand weather data to pinpoint your perfect powder day.
5. Health and safety is paramount: Today’s heli-ski operators go to great lengths to make sure your experience is not only fun but also safe. Mike Wiegele Heli-Skiing even goes as far as to have a doctor and medical care facility on site.
6. Did you know there is a scientist of snow watching out for you? Reputable heli-ski operators take snow science seriously. These snow experts are like scientists in a lab, studying snow for safety and the best conditions. Mike Wiegele Heli-Skiing has a fully equipped snow science study area headquartered in the guide hats, in addition to remote data stations and regular snow analysis in the field. All of that enables the com- pany to assess the conditions in the mountains and foresee developing conditions. Keeping guests out of harm and away from any potential avalanche or snow instability is not only the right thing to do, it just makes good business sense for most operators.
7. The gear matters: Major changes in ski technology in the last five years have made heli-skiing more attainable to a larger segment of the market. In the past, you needed to be an expert skier or rider, but now those with an intermediate level of skill can enjoy powder paradise. Don’t bring your own skis and snowboard because you should always use the top-ofthe-line gear provided by the operator. Ask in advance what gear is provided. And if you’re a snowboarder, it’s even more important to leave your board at home. In these situations, long powder boards rule 8. Will I get any ski tips? Today’s top ski guides are not only expert skiers but also great teachers. So, yes, you will get some great pointers to enhance your skiing and riding experience
9. Bring a friend: This experience fosters camaraderie like no other, so get your group together. This is a bucket-list item that bonds people together for years.
10. Looking for a real escape? This is it. No other alpine experience is the same as heli-skiing. You can stand tall on a remote mountain top and feel like the king of the kingdom, and imagine the mighty sense of accomplishment you feel as you ski to the valley bottom below!