Great Things Come In Small, Private Heliskiing Packages

May 01, 2015 Katie Marti

Going big is usually where it’s at. Whether we’re talking about bigger lines, bigger air, or a bigger plate of nachos, size matters. In terms of heli skiing, however, bigger isn’t always better. Compared to a standard package at many other heli ski operations in which multiple groups of up to 10 skiers and 2 guides share a helicopter, our small groups of no more than 5 guests and 1 guide per machine allow for more flexibility, more skiing/riding and more control over how, when and where your day takes you. Upgrade to one of our private heliskiing packages and you’ve got yourself a customized adventure tailored specifically to your group’s wildest dreams.

Friends Who Ski Together, Stay Together | Photo: Dave Silver
Friends who ski together, stay together | Photo: Dave Silver

First off, let me recognize that most people choose standard packages because they tend to be less expensive and more accessible for those looking to experience heli skiing in an introductory or bucket list kind of way, which is fantastic. Sure, it’s not the ultimate heli ski adventure that private packages tend to be, but it’s still heli skiing and that’s still extraordinary. No lift lines, no groomers, no moguls – just you and a few other shredders teaching the mountains (and your quads) a lesson they won’t soon forget. As a general rule, it doesn’t really matter how you add heli skiing to the list of awesome things you’ve done in your life, so long as you make it happen.

A Pretty Good Day By Anyone'S Standards | Photo: Dave Silver
A pretty good day by anyone’s standards | Photo: Dave Silver

For some dedicated skiers and snowboarders, however, private packages are most certainly the way to go. For one thing, the risk of feeling like you need to keep up with a group of fit, young rippers is all but eliminated; or, if you happen to be a group of fit, young rippers, you’re assured the freedom to move at your own scorching hot pace. Do you want to ride as much and as hard as your guide can reasonably facilitate? Done. Are you into making the most of your breakfast buffet and doing a bit of yoga before first lift? No problem. This is your trip, your helicopter and your agenda.

Sometimes Going Big Is Encouraged | Photo: Lorenz Masser
Sometimes going big is encouraged | Photo: Lorenz Masser

While there’s certainly a time and a place for making new friends, sometimes heli skiing isn’t the ideal scenario. Granted, we often bear witness to the beginning of some beautiful friendships over the course of five or seven days, group dynamics certainly add an element of unpredictability to an otherwise knock-out vacation. Wouldn’t it be amazing to share the experience with people you are guaranteed to want to hang out with on and off the slopes?

Picture Perfect Private Picnic | Photo: Dave Silver
Picture perfect private picnic | Photo: Dave Silver

Finally, the simple truth is that our private packages go above and beyond in terms of perks and added bonus. Most notable on the highlight reel is unlimited skiing and snowboarding, giving guests the freedom to explore the largest single heli ski area in the world as much or as little as they please. We roll out the red carpet with a personal greeting and limousine transfer in Vancouver and deliver guests to one of our remote lodges at Bell 2 or Ripley Creek for a week of delicious meals, cozy après ski and all the open-air hot tub appreciation one can physically handle.

At Your Service! | Photo: Caton Garvie
At your service! | Photo: Caton Garvie

Like I said, any day spent heli skiing or snowboarding is a really good day: private tours are the gold standard because they serve to maximize your ability to control the level of awesome you and your group experience by minimizing the variables and putting you in the driver’s seat. Not literally, of course – that’s what private helicopter pilots are for.