additional heli ski info

getting ready for your heli ski adventure

We are offering some fantastic heli ski specials for groups and individuals. Read More »

"Rod and Sandra, I just wanted to let you both know how much I appreciated your good humour in keeping my spirits up on my very first attempt at powder skiing with you March 18, 2008. I have to admit, falling so many times on my first few attemps was getting discouraging. I was exhausted just trying to pull myself out of the powder sooooo many times! Your humour kept me going and I felt by the 3rd run, I was kinda 'getting' it or at least I was on top of the snow more times than in it. I'm sure you've been told many times before that your operation is a class act, very professional, lives up to the hype of heliskiing and the staff and guides are extremely reassuring, patient and knowledgeable imparting a solid sense of safety to their guests I had so much fun and anyone I've spoken to about my experience gets to share my enthusiasm. I look forward to showing the pics and video to my firends back here in Ontario. I will definitely plan on doing this again at least in 3 years...I figure it'll take that long for me to get enough powder experince before I tackle the real stuff in BC.

Rod, I only stopped so many times to breathe! Thanks for the GREAT memories!!!."

Sandi Reid, ONTARIO CANADA 2008

Do whatever you can to increase your level of fitness before arriving for your day of heliskiing. Skiing is always good training for skiing! Keep in mind that heliskiing can sometimes involve landing at 10,000 feet, or 3,000 meters above sea level. The reduced amount of oxygen can affect those who are not in reasonable shape. If you live near sea level, it is best to spend a few days acclimatizing at a mountain resort before going higher. A time tested rule of thumb is that a generally fit person capable of consistently skiing, or boarding down the fall line on intermediate (blue) runs at a mountain ski resort will have a great heliski or heliboarding experience.

what to bring

Clothing should be layered for sub-zero temperatures. At altitudes exceeding 3000 meters (10,000 ft), and with annual snowfalls of 1100 centimeters (36 ft), goggles, hat and ski gloves are necessary. Neck warmers are a favourable addition. It is best to dress warm and in layers. Backpacks are not allowed, however, a small fanny pack is acceptable. Bring your ski boots and poles, or snowboard boots and board. For sunny days, make sure to bring sunglasses and skin protection.

a typical day with rk

Guests are greeted at rk's Heliplex base lodge at 8:30am and are directed to the front desk for check-in procedures. An avalanche transceiver will be issued at this time and staff will confirm that your waiver and rental forms have been completed. If you are a skier, we will require one of your ski boots to set up your powder fat skis. We will also ask you to step on a scale to ensure an accurate body weight for helicopter considerations.

Now you can relax in 'choppers restaurant' and enjoy a hearty breakfast. After fueling up on bacon and eggs, you will be asked by a guide to meet outside for the Companion Rescue Training with rk's transceiver and a helicopter safety orientation. At about 10:30am, one group of heli-skiers will fly directly from the Heliplex out to the beautiful Purcell Mountains, while other groups are shuttled to the nearby Coppercrown staging site where they will be picked up by helicopter; also bound for the Purcells.

Guests will then indulge themselves in two or three runs before a picnic lunch is served in the field – sandwiches, chocolate bars, cookies, fruit, juice and hot tea. Then it's time to rip it up some more!

Upon return to the plex, any extra runs are paid for. And now it’s time for Aprés-Ski!