Extreme Sports: World’s 10 Best Spots For Heli-Skiing

Few sports are as exhilarating and adrenaline-inducing as heli-skiing. It’s a snow sport that involves skiing from the top of a mountain or ridge to its base, often in remote locations far from civilization. Heli-skiing is an increasingly popular activity among thrill-seekers who want to experience something different than what they’re used to on the slopes at their local ski resort. 

Here are the world’s ten best spots for heli-skiing!

Who is heli-skiing for?

Heli-skiing is not just for experts. Many resorts offer introductory lessons to get you started. It’s an excellent way for beginners to get a taste of the thrill and excitement that comes with heli-skiing without having to worry about braving more challenging terrain.

What are the best months?

Heli-skiing is an outdoor activity, so it’s essential to make sure you plan your trip when there will be snow. The optimal window for heli-skiing is between December and March; however, if you can’t wait that long, October through early November also tends to have good conditions.

What will you need?

Heli-skiing is a sport that takes some specialized equipment and gear, so make sure to pack accordingly. For instance, the best way to get around when heli-skiing is on skis or snowboard; therefore, it’s crucial to have your own kit for this activity. Helmets and ski boots are also necessary apparel. Furthermore, you’ll need an avalanche beacon as well to stay safe while hiking through dangerous terrain. In addition, getting familiarized with the day’s forecast is a must. It may sound like common sense, but it can’t hurt to be prepared for any weather conditions that could influence your heli-skiing experience.

What else should you know?

Heli-skiing occurs in high altitudes, so make sure you’re aware of what this will mean for how your body performs during the activity—especially if you spend longer periods of time at these heights. For instance, consider taking some preventative measures before embarking on an extended tour with lots of ascents and descents, such as drinking plenty of fluids beforehand, eating well throughout the day, and staying warmly dressed while moving from one spot to another. In addition, certain medications might not react well when operating at such heights, so it’s a good idea to speak with your health care provider about any concerns you might have.

10 Best Spots for Heli-Skiing: 

Bella Coola, British Columbia

If you’ve never visited BC, now is the time to come. The snow is not only fantastic, but it’s also 90 times the size of France’s Vallees and Switzerland’s Alps combined. In addition, there are 2.64 million acres of snowy slopes located near the Pacific coast, making it one of the world’s most incredible skiing destinations.

Chugach Range, Alaska

The magnificent mountain range around Valdez has hosted several skiing videos. And there’s a reason why the Chugach Mountains get over 700 inches of fresh snow every year.

Himachal Pradesh, India

With a beautiful valley for relaxation and adventure, it’s like heli-skiing on a Himalayan scale. The beautiful hill station of Manali, also known as the Valley of the Gods, is located an hour north of Delhi. After that, there are lung-bursting descents among Himalayan giants at 16,400 feet.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is a ski paradise situated in the center of high mountains, with Breithorn and Lyskamm towering at 13,000 feet. Here, you’ll discover some of the world’s largest descents, including Europe’s second-tallest mountain – Monte Rosa’s western peak, which measures 15,203 feet. Truly incredible. 

Mica, British Columbia

Mica is a good choice for those looking to get away from it all. At the base of the Selkirk Mountains in northern British Columbia, Calgary is just two hours north. And the Mica Heli Sports region includes a 500-square-mile area at the bottom of the mountains. 

Kaçkar, Turkey

Consider Turkey in winter, and skiing isn’t the first sport to spring to mind. This s why it makes the Kaçkar mountain range something to consider.  The mountains are buffeted by frequent storms blowing off the Black Sea, which results in wonderfully fresh, deep snow. The highest point is 3,937 meters, which is a long way down.

Hokkaido, Japan

Hokkaido offers stunning views, fresh powder, and nail-biting slopes that easily compete with Europe’s best. The northern island of Hokkaido receives up to 60 feet of snow each year.

Kamchatka, Russia

Here’s your quick crash course on the Kamchatka Peninsula if you’ve never heard of it before. It’s located in the extreme east of Russia, between the Sea of Okhotsk and the Bering Sea, and is home to more than 200 volcanoes. As a result, it’s an excellent choice for skiing.

Southern Alps, New Zealand

The Southern Alps’ eleven mountain ranges promise 3,200 square kilometers of land with typical descents ranging from 2000 to 3,280 feet. The highest point is 8,480 feet above sea level, but even a helicopter won’t take you any higher.

Bell 2 Lodge, British Columbia

A remote heli-ski lodge in remote northern British Columbia has access to the most enormous heli-ski terrain on the planet. Last Frontier Heliskiing, founded in 1996, has its headquarters at Bell 2 Lodge, located 220 miles northwest of Smithers in the Skeena Mountains.

Final thoughts

If you’re thinking about booking a heli-skiing trip, we hope this list of the world’s ten best spots for heli-skiing will help you narrow your search and find something that suits your needs. So what is on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below. Have fun in powder!