New Heliski Operator Interview: Bearpaw Heliskiing Takes Off, or “The McGregors are the new Monashees!”

Bearpaw Heli Skiing Interview – Founded in 2013

 

We recently spoke with Kevin & Amber, owner-operators about their 2013 inaugural heliskiing season at Bearpaw Heliskiing.

 

1.  Bearpaw only offers Private packages with one small group per helicopter.  What lead you to that unique model?

 

It’s a long story…but we want to offer skiing how we like to ski… in a small group, no waiting, no farming snow, lots of turns and fresh tracks all the time. Another factor was that there was no accommodation in Sinclair Mills so we had to start from the ground up. We wanted to create something super unique, something different from the big heli-ski operations.

 

Our lodge facility is being built one small building at a time, all of which are reclaimed old hand-hewn log cabins restored to rustic 5-star accommodation.

 

Currently, we boast having the smallest heli-ski lodge in the world, but it’s pretty cool!!

heliskiing bc canada, bearpaw heli skiing

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2.  Last season was your first season heli skiing at Bearpaw.  How did it go?

 

Awesome!!  It was a great season. We had a big snowpack 450cm+ and the powder was amazing. We had guests from Norway, Germany, Oregon, Washington, and of course some crazy canucks.

 

3.  Do you still have some first descents and runs to name remaining?

 

Oh yeah!!!!!!! plenty!!!!!!

 

4.  You boast “BC’s Premier tree skiing destination”.  Why is your tree skiing best?

 

Our tree skiing is 100% natural here, we don’t need to make tree skiing by glading. We are skiing in decadent old growth spruce forests,
which have large natural openings , perfect for tree skiing.  Check out this video taken last year of a run we call “Presidents Choice”

 

 

 

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5.  Bearpaw Heli Skiing has literally been on my map [of all heliski operations] for a while.   What were the hurdles to opening?

 

Its another long story…but getting a long term tenure was the first big hurdle, we wanted to make sure we had it before building our lodge facility. The next hurdle was acquiring the perfect piece of private property to build on, then building the facilities in our spare time when we are not building log homes for clients (our other passion & business in our life)

 

heliskiing trees .

 

6.  Bearpaw is just North of Crescent Spur Heli-Skiing and CMH McBride.   Good neighborhood, eh?

 

Awesome!! neighborhood. We can’t say enough about & thanks to Mark and Regina Aubrey from Crescent Spur Heli-Skiing. They are amazing people!!  So supportive of us (& Bearpaw), are good friends and they are always there for us!!  We  have learned from the best!!  We also know that CMH are the leaders in the heli-skiing industry with strong stewardship practices and we look up to the great ones.

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7.  Your tenure is massive.  Is Bearpaw Heli Skiing the biggest heliskiing tenure in Eastern BC?

 

Yes we have a big tenure but we don’t think its the biggest. Our tenure size is similar in size to Mike Wiegele’s Helicopter Skiing. 1.2 million acres

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8.  Flying in-out of Prince George is very handy and reliable.  Do they have flights out of Calgary this season?

 

Yes, Central Mountain Air just started to offer direct flights from Calgary to Prince George 4 days a week, only a 1hr 45min flight!  [Great!]

 

heli-skiing map .

 

9.  Tell us about the four mountain ranges you heliski.

 

Who else has 4 mountain ranges in their backyard?? or tenure??  We ski in the McGregor Range which is the closest to the lodge, it offers the best tree skiing, face shots and facilitates our bad weather skiing, with treed runs up to 3800′. The Dezaiko Range offers much bigger alpine bowls but no shortage of great tree skiing. The Missinchinka Range has a little big of everything including the deepest snowpack in the tenure. The Rockies offer our biggest alpine bowls and glaciated terrain with peaks up to 9600′, ski runs up to 5000′ long and spectacular scenery.

heliskiing bc canada

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10.  “The McGregors are the new Monashees!”  Are there some new plate tectonics in BC creating awesome tree skiing?

 

Well actually no… The Monashees are thought to be the best tree skiing in the province but not too many people know about the McGregors, yet!!   So if you think the Monashees are good, you ain’t skied nothing yet!!

heliskiing monashees like

 

11.  New is not a feature promoted by many heliskiing operations….   Tell us about your guides.

 

Bearpaw maybe a new heli-ski operation but we have been backcountry skiing & working in these mountains for over 30 years, its our stompin grounds.  All of our guides are fully certified ACMG Ski Guides with years of experience.  Most of our guides have been guiding our exploratory heli-ski trips for the past 5 years, prior to our opening season last year and have been guiding at nearby heli and cat ski operations.

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12.  Do you see many bears?

 

The only bears you will see here in the winter are Bear Cub Martinis!   But we do see a lot of bears during the rest of the year.

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13.  Now it’s getting interesting……OK, so what’s in a Bear Cub Martini?

 

Bear Cub Martini

2 oz. Schramm Vodka (distilled in Pemberton BC)
0.75 oz. fresh organic lemon juice
0.75 oz. wildflower homey syrup (1 part honey to 1 part warm water)
Small handful of muddled fresh B.C. raspberries

 

heliskiing british columbia cocktails

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14.  What happens if your chopper breaks down?

 

No problem whatsoever in this department, we are using Yellowhead Helicopters which has lots of depth to their fleet, so getting another machine in quickly is not a problem!! The flight from their hangar at the Prince George Airport to our lodge is only 15 minutes.

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15.  How many down days did you experience last season?

 

None!!!  We have really really good bad weather skiing, close to the lodge.

heliskiing bc trees

 

Thanks TJ,
Kevin & Amber

Bearpaw Heli Skiing

 

Thanks to you two, too…

tj

New A-Star Elite Program at Northern Escape heli-skiing Canada in 2 Groups of 4

What’s new in Canada helicopter skiing?

Northern Escape added a new A-Star program to Canada helicopter skiing options.

Guests heliski in two groups of 4 in an A-Star.  Canada helicopter skiing operators ski in three groups per helicopter, for the most part.  The new A-Star Elite program is just two groups Canada helicopter skiing.

heli-skiing Canada, Canada helicopter skiing

A-Star B2 is common in Canada Helicopter Skiing….  But just two groups per helicopter is not!

Lodging for the A-Star Elite guests is in the new Mountain Lodge, accessed by helicopter.

northern escape heliskiing lodge exterior, elite northern escape heliskiing helicopter

 

 

smal group heli-skiing, helicoopter skiing canada

Skiing in two groups of 4 allows your group to really rack up the vertical.    So we highly recommend you add the innovative NEH Unlimited Vertical Option.  In addition to freeing you from worrying about sticker shock on Friday, it includes a higher minimum guarantee for your Canada helicopter skiing.

During prime time, A-Star Elite 7-days is $10,999 Can.   You can add the Unlimited Vertical Option for an additional $2,100.  This compares to the Classic NEH package at $9,999 –  add the Unlimited Vertical Option for an additional $2,100.  18 guests share a Koala, which is very nice, skiing in three groups of six.  (Mention HELISKI.com and get an Early Booking Incentive $400 Off)

So it’s an extra $1,000.  A no-brainer!

Like all Northern Escape Canada Helicopter Skiing packages, the A-Star Elite program includes:

  • Catskiing Backup
  • Tons of Snow
  • Just 20 minutes from the Terrace Airport
  • Great food, drink and camaraderie
  • Great Canada helicopter skiing

We have been there a few times and loved it.  But this new program is even better.  Call NEH at 866-619-3184 or 250-615-6043 or check out Northern Escape Heli-Skiing and be sure to mention HELISKI.com

Thanks,

tj

helicopter skiing alaska, bc heli-skiing

7 Reasons to Try a New Heli-Skiing Location Next Year

helicopter skiing alaska, bc heli-skiing
Why Try a New Heli-Skiing Location Next Year?

In heliskiing, momentum is a good, but inertia is not. Are you going to the same heliskiing operator year after year? Take a look around. It may be time to think about a change for 2014.

You and your buddies owe it to yourselves. Don’t automatically sign up for the same week, at the same place next year when you check out. There will be plenty of dates available, and good prices. Consider your options.
We represent every operator, and our recommendations and service are free. Here are 7 reasons to consider getting out of those tracks!

1. Heli Skiing Variety.

Variety is the spice of life. Mountain ranges, snow, terrain, lodges, travel, group size, pricing, down days, catskiing backup, and more. My mom used to say, “You don’t know what you’re missing.”

heli skiing canada, canadian heli skiing
2. More Helicopter Skiing Choices.

Since we started offering reviews and recommendations 20 years ago, there has been an explosion in the number of heli-skiing options. There are dozens of choices in British Columbia, Canada alone.

 

3. Travel to and from your Heli Skiing Lodge.

If minimizing your travel time is important, there are some great choices. Cost and reliability of flights and roads are also important considerations.

How about reaching the lodge in time for dinner, and skiing the next morning? Or fly to Vancouver, spend the night, fly up in the morning and heliski that afternoon. Another benefit to easy access travel is that it may also increase the skiing time you have available on the last day.

 

4. Heli Skiing Group Size and Heli Skiing Lodge Size.

Have you tried small group heliskiing? It is very different – much faster, more comfortable and less susceptible to weak links. Some drainages cannot handle 12 tracks, let alone 24, 36 or 48.

How about sharing the chopper with one or two groups to eliminate waiting? One operator is offering ONE GROUP per helicopter and unlimited vertical! How about a lodge that holds 12 guests, instead of 40 of your closest friends?

 

5. Helicopter Skiing Pricing.

A week can range from $10-15K US. And you may be writing a big check on checkout for extra vertical. We have many unlimited vertical options as well as hybrid models.

 

6. Alaska Heli Skiing.

If you can hang in BC, you can hang in AK. And to paraphrase Warren Miller, ‘if you don’t go this year, next year you will be a year older!’ You do not want to retire from heliskiing without Alaska on your resume.

Valdez heli skiing Alaska, heli ski Alaska

 

7. Helicopter Skiing Flexibility.

We offer trips of any length and can start and stop on any day you choose. Warm up at a resort like Whistler, Revelstoke or Kicking Horse. Or combine heliskiing with catskiing to save you legs and your wallet.

 

Let me know when your group likes to go, and where. I will give you some options so that you can be the hero. I can hold dates and get you the same re-booking discounts, too.
Email tj@HELISKI.com or call me at 866-HELISKI.

RAMP Skis & Snowboards: 15 Questions with HELISKI.com & HELIBOARD.com

RAMP Skis & Snowboards

Interview with Ramp Snowboards

– We talked with Mike Kilchenstein, founder RAMP Snowboards and Handmade Skis and about their revolutionary ski manufacturing process….and skis!

1.  Mike, how long have you been making skis and RAMP Snowboards?

I started with Rossignol in Vermont right out of school, and made skis with them for 32 years.  I did a lot of jobs for Rossi from Factory Worker to Tech Rep, Sales Rep then Sales Manager then VP Sales and Marketing managing Roxy Skis, I only actuall made skis for 2 years there but was always involved in testing, and part of marketing committee.

Not a slogan, it’s an acronym.   The meaning is explained in Question 11.

2.  What’s different about how RAMP makes skis and RAMP Snowboards?

RAMP uses a vacuum molding process.  For over 40 years, skis have been press molded, at 4 atmospheres of vertical pressure, onto expensive camber plates.

 

Vacuum molding is used for high precision manufacturing, like racecar bodies.   We are pioneering vacuum molding techniques in skis.   The RAMP process uses only 1 atmosphere of unidirectional pressure (equal in all directions and constant), so that the materials set up in their natural state based on the thermal expansion characteristics of the material – making the end result harder, more resilient and with more consistent and predictable performance characteristics.  There is no camber plate, so that camber is the natural shape of the ski.  The shapes can be tweaked using CAD, so R&D is super fast.   We are also able to experiment with any mix of materials. 

3.  Why are you are using a Bamboo core?

Bamboo is extremely hard.  It’s 50% harder than ‘hardwoods’, and 400% harder than poplar, the core of most skis.  The bamboo core rides as smooth as a baby’s bottom.

4.  You just built out a factory in Park City, Utah.   That’s different, eh?

You would be surprised how Made in the USA is making a comeback.  And it offers many advantages for us.  Slope-side manufacturing is a natural fit with our flexible manufacturing process.    We are able to do rapid prototyping, testing variations of materials, designs and shapes.   RAMP does not require expensive presses and molds, so manufacturing is less capital intensive.   We can also change designs fast and cheap.  [Like my old girlfriend!]

5.  You have a complete product line, but heliskiers want to talk powder.

This year we are launching a pure powder ski – Kapow.  It is a powder-specific hybrid of our Peacepipe (Freeskier Editor’s Pick for 2011/12!).  Kapow has a 125mm waist, and more rocker tip and tail, and the contact point moved back.   Powder requires early rise and reverse side-cut in the tip.  And the deeper it gets, the more rocker you want.  This is the ultimate powder ski, but it won’t cost a fortune.  It comes in a 189, 179 and 169mm.  [I’ll take a 189.  Need my address?]

 

                                         

6.  You must have some fun with it.  Your model names are very hilarious:

Groundhog, Beaver (women’s of course), Chickadee, Frenzy, Hysteria, Hula, Cork, Swarm, Honey, and my favorite – Kumoniwannaskiya.

Hey, skiing should be fun.

 

        

 

7.  What’s different about women’s models?

 

Cosmetics.  Really.   Over the years I have discovered that the really good skiers like the same skis, regardless of gender.  Girls like different graphics, so that’s what we offer.  [True, ask any Bad Betty, like the 5-time World Champion and Olympic Gold  medalist Donna Weinbrecht]

8.  Speaking of graphics, yours really pop.

We have developed a new process that allows us to sublimate graphics onto the bamboo veneer.  The first time people see RAMP skis they are amazed. 

 

9.  But you won’t find them in stores, so order by midnight tonight?

Right, we sell direct and through a small number of resort-based ski shops.  For years, I saw the retail ski business change.  There has been a margin squeeze that resulted in consumers getting less attention and less choice.  Going direct allows us to offer great prices and to engage with our customers.

 

10.  And you also have reps.   How does that work?

We found that our customers are our best salespeople, so we offer them a chance to earn something for selling.  [Cool]

11.  What is the philosophy behind RAMP in RAMP Snowboards?

RAMP stands for Riders, Artists, and Musicians Project.  It’s about combining creative energy and being environmentally responsible.  My partner is a marketing guy who works with musicians, music festivals, X-Games and more.  So we do lots of cool co-promotion.  We also have a team of athletes that are RAMP ambassadors. 

12.  Our HELISKI.com readers will want to know about your RAMP snowboards.

Right, we sell about 80% as many snowboards as skis.  The industry average is about one-third of the total volume, so we must be doing something right.  You and I do both.   What’s cool about your boards? 

13.  Again with the funny names.   I guess Lobstah is a nod to your New England roots/accent?

Yeah, and Mussel and Oyster, too.  The Lobstah is great for launching big air in the pipe and ripping stable, carved turns at speed.  Ross Powers got us our first XGames Medal on the Lobstah!  He’s a New England guy, too.

 

14.  What’s best RAMP Snowboards for big mountain and pow?

Tumbleweed.  No speed limit. 

15.   And for the Keiki’s (kids for you Haoles)?

Gotta be the TaterTot!

Hilarious!  Just send a pair of Ka Pows my way before my first heli trip, please!  (WHICH THEY DID!  I SKIED THEM AT EAGLE PASS HELISKI AND HELIBOARD)

And thanks for playing 15 Questions with TJ.

Best Regards,

tj

 

PS Check out my blog post on heli-snowboarding vs heli-skiing

Tom Jackson

CPO (Chief Powder Officer)

HELISKI.com

866-HELISKI

(866-435-4754)

Expert Advice – Knowledge is Powder

HELISKI.com Interviews Points North Heliskiing / Heliboarding Alaska Helicopter Skiing. 15 Questions with HELISKI.com

Points North Heli Skiing Alaska

 

This summer HELISKI.comvisited with Jessica Quinn, who co-owns and operates Points North Heli Adventures with her husband Kevin. As you might guess, she happens to be one bad betty! The conversation follows.

1. How do you contrast Alaska Heliskiing with BC Heliskiing.

Honestly there is no comparison. The terrain and snow pack that Alaska offers is unlike that of anywhere in the world! The warm moist air converges with the cold glaciers creating a maritime snow pack that allows snow to virtually stick to places that make riding some of the steepest terrain in the world accessible. Not to say that we have a wet snow pack, as that is not the case. The snow quality in the Chugach is perfect and can often times feel like Utah powder. Alaska is the super bowl of helicopter skiing. We like to refer to it as Disney Land on steroids!

Alaska heli-skiing, points north cordova heliskiing alaska

Got Steep?

2. Is your terrain all high alpine, or do you have tree skiing, too?

Trees are very limited in all regions of Alaska. We do have trees but remember, tree line is Alaska hovers around 1500’ above sea level. We do have tree skiing early season (Jan / Feb) when temps are cold and we can ski to the valley floors, but honestly the famous terrain of Alaska is in the alpine. Most often we are tree skiing at our local chair lift, Mt Eyak on “activity days”… Others refer to this as a “down day”. [nice euphemism!] At PNH there are no down days, just activity days riding our chair lift. Typical runs in the helicopter terrain in Alaska start at or around 6500’-7000’ descending down to around 2000’ or higher. Average runs are anywhere from 2000’ – 4000’ in vertical.

3. What sets Points North Heliskiing apart from other Alaska Heliskiing?

No matter who you decide to visit in Alaska, if you get good weather, you’re going to have a great trip! Everyone has something to offer and we are all different. What sets PNH apart from the other operators is:

We are truly “all-inclusive with a beautiful lodge located on Prince William Sound with the Chugach in our backyard and the ocean in our front yard. We have 3 beautiful A-star helicopters that are located outside your window and act as an “alarm clock”. We are away from the other 5 operators in Valdez meaning there is no race to access the terrain in the morning. You will never see another aircraft flying in our area. Additionally, Alaska Airlines flies into Cordova 3 times daily, meaning there are no commuter flights to connect to and then long bus rides and car trips to get to our lodge. PNH is the only operator in the area that is a member of the United Stated Heli-Ski Association. There are only 2 operators in Alaska that are part of HSUS.

Cordova has a chair lift, Mt Eyak. The chair came from Sun Valley in the early 70’s. It allows for great skiing on “activity days” when aircraft cannot access the heli-ski terrain. PNH has numerous yurts allowing for non-motorized ski touring access. Yurts are stocked with firewood, food and various amenities for your comfort. The objective at PNH is to keep you skiing everyday. If you choose not to ski, we also have sea-kayaks, a local surf break and boats to take you fishing. Cordova is home to the famous Copper River and a trip to town is unique in itself. No roads connect to Cordova meaning that each and every local that resides here has made an effort to get here. The Cordova chamber of commerce motto is “Alaska’s best kept secret”. We can only encourage you to find out the secret for your self. Our return rate alone speaks for itself. We are averaging just over 80% returns. Our clients come as new guests and return as our long time loyal friends. Last but not least, PNH has been featured in the last 10 Warren Miller films consecutively.

alaska heliskiing heliboarding, point north heli-skiing cordova alaska

Scenery and Steeps, Both EPIC

4. How much vertical do you average in a week and how many days of riding?

An average is anywhere from 60,000’ to well over 100,000’ if the weather is on your side. An average week comes down to the weather, no matter where you go in Alaska. No one has a “blue hole” or force field. All of us get the very same weather coming in from the Gulf of Alaska. We try to be very honest with people and tell them that they are going to experience weather in Alaska. In an average week guests should get 2-3 big days of riding. They can get more if the weather is in their favor. Some operations will keep you at their remote heli base waiting to get 1 run in at 6pm after waiting all day. Our view is simple. Send you to the chair lift, ski all day and in the event the weather cooperates, we will be flying you into the mountains when it does clear.

5. Alaska is known for steep. Do you advise newbie’s to try BC heliskiing before they come to Alaska?

We advise everyone to come to Alaska! What is so unique about Alaska is the amount of terrain it has to offer. At PNH we have over a 1000 square skiable miles of terrain. More terrain than one could access in a lifetime! Movies and magazines have made Alaska this extreme spooky place, however, we can tell you honestly; there is something for everyone. We can only encourage you to choose an operator that is a member of the US Heli Ski Association.

6. How can you tell on the phone if a client is going to be able to hang?

Everyone on the phone has questions. Generally the same questions arise. When is the best time? Will I get stuck with weaker skiers? How many to a group? These are all valid concerns. If we cannot match you with folks of the same desires and ability, we have 27 employees waiting to go ski and ride wherever you so choose. There is no best time. It’s when the weather cooperates. Alaska has something to offer everyone. We say this in confidence.

chugach heliskiing codova alaska, helicopter skiing points north alaska

Unique Spot in Cordova on Prince William Sound

8. Describe your lodging at Points North Heli.

Our lodging at PNH is very unique. We operate out of the Orca Cannery, a 20-acre parcel directly on the waterfront complete with a wood fired sauna. We do not have a 5 Star lodge like that of the CMH’s or many of the Canadian style lodges, but our facility is very clean and comfortable. Our dining hall is filled with a large screen TV, ping pong, foosball video games etc. Our facility feels like going to “camp” as a kid. All of our rooms are clean and spacious with their own restrooms and showers allowing for privacy. We are very proud of our facility and its something that separates us from many of the others in Alaska.

 

9. What helicopters do you use? How many guests per lift? How many lifts per helicopter? Sorry, three questions in one…

We utilize the A-star B2 exclusively. Groups are 4 riders to 1 guide. We are lucky to say that we have had the same helicopters, pilots and mechanics now for 12 of our 14 years. North Star Helicopters out of Juneau, Alaska is one of the top operators in the state. They are Alaskan pilots with thousands of hours flying in Alaska, winter and summer. On and average fly day one can expect to get 8-12 lifts in a day, averaging 25,000 -40,000’ of vertical depending on what it is your riding.

alaska helicopter skiing cordova, heli-skiing heli-boarding points north alaska

Ships, Birds, Choppers….A rose by any other name

12. What packages does Points North offer?

Our package includes ALL of your meals, lodging, transportation in and around Cordova including airport pickup and drop off along with all state of the art safety gear. Additionally, you get 4 helicopter hours of actual fly time. An average day is around 1 hour and 15 minutes of fly time in the early season and 1 hour and 30 minutes in the later part of the season. 4 helicopter hours is generally getting you 3 big days of riding. It is not common for guests to go over their 4 heli hour buy in, given the weather factors in Alaska. If in the event you do get 4 or 5 days of riding you simply pay as you go. Once you go over your 4 helicopter hours you are not expected to ski, however we bet that you will want to. A package for 7 nights lodging (all-inclusive, meals, lodging and transportation) and 4 heli-hours is $4,875.

13. Tell us about traveling to Points North Heliskiing.

Getting to Cordova and our location is very simple. Alaska Airlines flies in and out of Cordova 3 times a day. Access is from either Anchorage or Seattle. Our facility is 15 minutes from the airport. We pick you up and drop you off. It is about the easiest place to access in all of Alaska for heli-skiing.

14. What are the steepest slopes you ski with guests?

This is a question that depends purely on the guest and the conditions at the given time. It’s common for guests to come to Alaska and think they could never ski something like they just did. A common response is “that was the best run of my life” and the guide response is “ I thought the last run was…” Runs can range from 10 degrees down the glacier to 60 plus degrees and more. The snow pack that Alaska offers allows for access to these famous slopes. The skier and his / her ability is what allows them to gain access to the steep slopes if they choose. At PNH the guide will take you to your first few runs and from there you and your group decide where you would like to go next. If conditions allow for the run your choosing, the guide’s job is to make certain you can do it and make it happen safely. We are not selling you vertical. You will get that. We are selling you an experience of a lifetime!

alaska helicopter skiing, points north heliskiing heliboarding alaska

Wild? Ski with your own landing zone flag…

15. Anything else you want to add?

No mater where you choose to go Alaska, each operator has something for you. We can only encourage you to ask the proper questions and do your research prior to your trip. Additionally, when heli skiing in US, make certain the look for the US Heli Skiing Association logo.

Thanks for your time here with us!

 

heli-skiing codova alaska, heliboarding heliskiing points north alaska

No, Jessica, thank YOU for the giving us the full story about Points North Heliskiing out of Codova, Alaska. I have only been to a few places in Valdez, so I hope to get up there soon!
Best,
tj

Tom Jackson
CPO (Chief Powder Officer)
HELISKI.com
866-HELISKI
(866-435-4754)

All Photos: Court Leve

canadian heli-skiing

Exclusive HELISKI.com Deal: Book Northern Escape Heli-Skiing Now and Save 7.5%

Discounted Rates on 2012 if you book by April 30 and mention HELISKI.com!

Northern Escape is a great place, and now offers catskiing backup.

canadian heli-skiing
20 minutes from the airport, too!

Here is a quick summary:

Northern Escape

Northern Escape is in Northern BC, near Terrace. They have great trees and are the best for ease of travel. I have skied there twice and had a blast.

This year they added catskiing backup, so you ski even when it’s dumping.

heli-skiing canada
Because there are sometimes when its snowing too hard to fly!

They are the only operator flying the Koala helicopter which is very fast. It holds 6 guests at a time.

GM/Owner John Forrest has been in the industry for over 20 years, and has incorporated the best of what he has learned. He is also President of the industry association.

NE is VERY easy to get to, just 20 minutes from the Terrace airport. Read our description at HeliskiingReview and visit their site NE

They have not increased their prices for the 3rd year in a row, and are also offering 7.5% off on all packages booked before April 30th, 2011 for the 2012 season!

Make Tracks, Save Cash

It’s Deeper Up Here! Classic Packages:
7-day packages $9,056 or less
5-day packages $6,466 or less
4-day packages $5,263 or less
3-Day packages $4,061 to $3,413

The 7.5% discount also applies to all Yellow Cedar Lodge Private packages and Exclusive Private packages as well.

Call or e-mail me or Northern Escape directly. Let them know we referred you, please.

Toll-Free: 1 866 619-3184 | Phone: 250 615-3184 or john@neheliski.com

Remember, these prices are only good till April 30th, 2011 and based on availability.

heli-skiing canada
This is your stop

Heliskiing Next Week and Early April – Great Choices

We have had lots of requests for next week and the following week. Below are some good options.

Call or email if you would like to learn more or hold a seat. 866-HELISKI (435-4754)

tj@HELISKI.com

TLH

They ski in just one group per helicopter and offer unlimited vertical. Very sweet deal.
Most dates are available, depending on the size of your group.

They will fly you from Whistler.

March 25th – April 8th.

3-days $4,820

4-days $6,430

5-days $8035

7-days $10,575

heliskiing canada
Spring Skiing with TLH

===========================
Last Frontier

– The largest single heliskiing area on the planet – over 9500 square km – 100% small group heliskiing – 3 groups of just 5 guests per helicopter

– Located in northern British Columbia on the border with Alaska – massive snowfalls = epic conditions – unrivalled terrain – that means world class tree skiing and huge alpine terrain – 4, 5 and 7 day tours

– Established in 1996 Bell 2 Lodge has become known as one of, if not THE Mecca for heliskiing. Its northern location, small group sizes and massive ski terrain

– The Skeena and Coast Mountains of northern BC offer up massive tree runs in old growth forest, huge glaciated features in high alpine terrain and everything in between. It’s a nirvana of steep and aggressive lines for the diehard, through to gentler terrain for a mellow experience.

– Bell 2 Lodge – is located 220 miles (360 km) Northwest of Smithers, British Columbia. The small resort of Bell 2, situated along the Stewart – Cassiar Highway, is our home for the winter season.

Last Frontier can do a 5 day next week.

26-Mar or 27-Mar, Fly Vancouver to Smithers
27-Mar ground transfer Smithers – Bell2 Lodge
28-Mar 1st ski day
01-Apr last ski day (no joke) and overnight in Smithers
02-Apr Smithers – Vancouver and onwards

$7785 + HST

+ $635 a single room guarantee

heli-skiing canada
Up near Alaska with Last Frontier

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Bella Coola Heli-Sports has space for a single at their Big Mountain program Mar 26-Apr 2. the cost is C$8,38

Bella Coola Helisports is the original and most experienced operator in Bella Coola offers 1.5 million acres of the most sought after heliskiing and boarding on the planet. This is now one of the largest tenures in the world. They have one of the easiest accesses of any heliskiing destination in BC. Their goal is to have you heliskiing/boarding on the day of your arrival and the day of your departure. So their 3-day package may give you 4 possible days of heliskiing/boarding. That is because you fly up one morning, ski the afternoon; ski three full days; then on the last day you ski the morning and fly out in the afternoon. Read our summary at BCHS.
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Canadian Mountain Holidays

Canadian Mountain Holidays (CMH)

They invented heliskiing! Forty-one years of accumulated experience allow them to claim ‘Our staff and guides, some of them veterans from the very early days, will proudly show you the friendliness, hospitality and great times in the mountains that bring 70% of our guests back every year.’

Each lodge has a flavor of its own. The terrain, clients and travel vary widely. We can help you pick the best lodge for your group.

CMH Revelstoke for 5 days, starting March 28, $4775
CMH Cariboos 7 days, March 26, $7540
CMH Bugaboos, April 2-9, $7320

heli-skiing bugaboos cmh canadian mountain holidays
Bugaboos in April

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Crescent Spur Heli-Skiing has a Private April 2-9 for their regular price (cheap)

 

Last minute Spring Special!! Here are the details:

  • Private Group at a Semi-Private Price – April 2-9, 2011
  • 6 Day/7 Night PRIVATE PACKAGE for $6715 CDN +tax per person
  • Just 10 guests with exclusive use of the lodge, helicopter and over 1,500 square miles of terrain and 300 runs in 2 mountain ranges
  • “Spring skiing” at the Spur means fresh powder, bluebird skies, sunshine, alpine bowls, glacier and après ski margaritas and appies on the deck
  • Only 2 spaces remaining!!
helicopter skiing crescent spur bc canada
Rockies or Cariboos…..Both!
whistler heliskiing, heliskiing whistler side by side

Heliskiing next Year? Book this Spring and Save

Save on 2012 Heliskiing by Booking this Spring

Let the HELISKI.com:

  • Find the Best Trip
  • Get the Best Week
  • Save Money

Most of the 45 locations we represent will allow us to offer 2011 pricing for 2012 trips. Some require only a deposit to lock in the price, otherwise want half or full payment. We can also help you find the best operators and locations for your group.

whistler heliskiing, heliskiing whistler side by side

 

 

  • Terrain
  • Snow
  • Travel
  • Lodge Experience
  • Group Size
  • Groups per Helicopter
  • Weather and Temperatures
  • Food
  • Other activities
  • Resort ‘Warm Up’ Before

Drop us an email or call 866-HELISKI (866-435-4754)
Let us know:

  • How many in your group
  • How many days or dollars you can afford
  • When you would like to go
  • Anything else about the experience you want

We’re happy to help, for free.

whistler heliskiing, heliskiing whistler chopper
first time heli skiing, first time helicopter skiing
Crescent Spur Helicopter Skiing, Cariboo Mountains helicopter skiing

Free Week of Heliskiing Contest about to close!

Cresent Spur Heli-Skiing is offering a Free Ski Week!

There are only a few more days until the drawing on January 31st for a free week with Crescent Spur!

One lucky skier or boarder will win a 6 day/7 night package – all the skiing or boarding you can do, accommodation (based on double occupancy), meals and the use of specialized powder skis and poles.

There is still time to enter the draw! Just visit the Crescent Spur Facebook Page, click the “Like” button at the top of page, and enter to win!

Crescent Spur Helicopter Skiing, Cariboo Mountains helicopter skiing

Fly up AM, Heliski PM. Heliski 3, 4 or 5 Full Days. Last day, Heliski AM, Fly back PM….Sweet set up!

Our friend Beat Steiner, who runs Bella Coola Helisports, has a very cool offer. Heliski a half-day on each end of your trip, so you can get an extra day! This is especially cool for maximizing a short trip. And, not only do you get to heliski/heliboard on both travel days, Beat picks up your airfare from Vancouver and back!

bella coola british columbia heliskiing bc canada heli-skiing
Bella Coola squeezes in as much skiing as they can!

Bella Coola Helisports is the original and most experienced operator in Bella Coola offers 1.5 million acres of the most sought after heliskiing and boarding on the planet. This is now one of the largest tenures in the world.

They have one of the easiest accesses of any heliskiing destination in BC. Their goal is to have you heliskiing/heliboarding on the day of your arrival and the day of your departure.

So their 3-day package gives you 4 possible days of heliskiing/boarding. That is because you fly up one morning, ski the afternoon; ski three full days; then on the last day you ski the morning and fly out in the afternoon. 4-day package gives you 5 possible heli-skiing days, 5-day gives you 6 days…..you get the idea. You can also read our summary at BCHS.

And, Beat will include the airfare from Vancouver to Bella Coola and return!

Bella Coola has two options, (not including their Private Pantheon, a unique setting which is ideal for a group of 8):

Big Mountain program is a no frills, attractively priced choice (Put together a group of 4 and you can save money and rack up the vertical).

Tweedsmuir Lodge is the classic heli experience.

Availability during British Columbia primetime:

The week of Jan 22-29, including shorter trips ( Jan 22-26 or Jan 26-29).

Also during Feb 19-28 which is 9 nights, you can also be split into Feb 19-22 Feb 19-24, Feb 22-28 and Feb 24-28.

Pricing:

7-night/ 8-day $9,980
5-night/ 6 day $8,080
4-night/ 5 day $6,880
3-night/ 4 day $5,480

Email Beat, or call 604.932.3000….Tell him TJ sent you and I’ll throw in a massage.

heli-skiing Canada, helicopter skiing BC Canada
Don’t Waste a Second – Heliski with Bella Coola Heliskiing / Heliboarding