Helicopter skiing, or ‘heli-skiing’ is an exhilarating winter sport where private helicopters transport skiers to untouched backcountry slopes. This exclusive experience takes you to remote, otherwise inaccessible mountain terrain, offering pristine powder and unrivaled freedom. As one of the most luxurious high-altitude skiing adventures, heli-skiing combines adrenaline, exclusivity and breathtaking landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
If you’re looking to book a luxury heli-skiing trip but don’t know where to start, you’re in luck! In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the essential considerations. From the best heli-skiing destinations to climate considerations and expert packing tips, we cover everything you need to know for the ultimate heli-skiing getaway.
If this is your first heli-skiing trip, you might be wondering what to expect on your journey. Most trips begin with arrival at a high-end ski lodge or resort. Here you can enjoy premium amenities, like gourmet dining, spa facilities and Après-Ski lounges. This is likely where you will be given a safety briefing covering helicopter protocols, avalanche awareness and how to use the safety gear. Search for heli skiing trips with luxury lodges to find a premium accommodation option that suits you.
Once settled and rested, you’ll venture into the mountains on the helicopter, one of the most thrilling aspects of the heli skiing tour. As you ascend over snow-covered peaks, you’ll witness breathtaking panoramic views before being dropped onto remote, untouched slopes for a whole day of alpine adventure.
All heli skiing trips are led by expert guides who have in-depth knowledge of the local terrain and snow conditions, so you’re in safe hands! Groups are typically kept quite small, between 4-6 skiers, to maintain an intimate experience. There are many different heli skiing tours to choose from, for example, there are some great heli-skiing trips for beginners with gentler terrain, or you can opt for advanced, intermediates and above.
The ideal time for a heli skiing trip depends on a variety of factors, including your destination, skill level and weather conditions. Understanding the seasonal variations across different regions will help you maximise your experience.
In Canada and Europe, for example, peak season runs from January to April, with deep powder in winter and more stable conditions in spring. Alaska’s season, however, extends from February through to May, while destinations in the Southern Hemisphere like New Zealand and South America, offer prime off-piste skiing from June to September.
Other factors like snowfall patterns, avalanche risks and weather stability should also influence your decision. Early-season skiing in December to February will bring deep, fresh snow, but a greater risk of avalanches, while late-season skiing in March to April offers sunnier days and firmer snowpacks for a safer experience.
There are many amazing destinations for heli skiing across the globe, spanning from Europe to Asia, USA and The Arctic. If you’re wondering where to go for fantastic heli skiing trips, here’s a breakdown of the top five destinations.
Whistler in Canada’s British Columbia is one of the most famous heli-skiing destinations in the world. Whistler heli skiing provides access to over 400,000 acres of terrain, with everything from open glaciers to steep tree runs. The best time to visit is December to April, with January and February offering the most consistent snowfall. Luxury heli skiing lodges and all-inclusive packages make Whistler a prime choice for those seeking a mix of adventure and high-end comfort.
Argentina is an emerging hotspot for guided heli skiing tours in the Southern Hemisphere, especially in the Patagonia region near Bariloche and Mendoza. Running from August to October, the ski season in Argentina offers breathtaking Andean landscapes, magical untouched snowfields and amazing lodges situated in the Patagonian desert.
Switzerland is synonymous with luxury heli skiing trips, offering some of the most spectacular alpine descents in the world. Iconic destinations like Zermatt and Engelberg provide access to vast off-piste terrain, offering magnificent views of peaks like the Matterhorn. The best time to go is January to April when exclusive ski resorts with heli access provide a luxurious chalet stay, combined with Michelin restaurants and world-class spas.
For remote, high-altitude experiences, the Indian Himalayas offer some of the best heli skiing trips in the world, with descents reaching over 14,750 feet! The Himachal Pradesh region of India is a top heli skiing spot, known for its deep powder and the cultural richness of the Kullu Valley. Visiting from January to March offers skiers the chance to experience massive vertical drops, untouched terrain and fewer crowds compared to traditional heli skiing locations.
Iceland offers a host of unique experiences, where visitors can descend volcanic peaks and experience magnificent natural phenomena like the Northern Lights. All-inclusive heli skiing trips in Iceland run from March to June, making it one of the few late-season options in the Northern hemisphere. Enjoy endless daylight hours, breathtaking fjords and steep couloirs, all while staying in luxury remote lodges for an indulgent experience.
Once you’ve decided where to book a heli skiing trip and your departure day is approaching, you’ll need to pack all your important gear and equipment. Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you’ve got everything you need for your heli skiing holiday.
Pack breathable base layers, an insulated mid-layer and a waterproof outer shell. Don’t forget gloves, a ski hat, and thermal socks. For Après-Skiing, bring comfortable and elegant evening wear.
Avalanche gear is a must, including a helmet, goggles and a small backpack for your gear and snacks.
To capture those exciting moments, remember a GoPro, and stay protected with suncream, SPF lip balm and sunglasses.
Carry your passport travel insurance and heli-skiing confirmation.
Heli-skiing is a fantastic experience for intrepid travelers, offering amazing off-piste skiing opportunities and high-altitude adventures. Whether you venture to the Indian Himalayas, luxury resorts in Switzerland or the vast Andean ranges of Argentina, booking private heli-skiing tours is the ultimate way to explore some of the world's most remote and breathtaking landscapes.
