How to Go Heli Skiing

Heli skiing can be extremely dangerous and is banned in France and very strictly monitored in the rest of Europe. Heli skiing began in 1965 in Radium, British Columbia. With the emergence of jet helicopter technology, people were able to leave all the noises and comforts of modern society behind them and go into areas in the mountains where man is a true guest of nature.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Determine what kind of skier you are, beginner, intermediate or advanced. Heli skiing is not for people just getting off the bunny slope. Everybody in your party should be close to the same skill level.

2. Plan your heli ski trip like you would any other vacation. Decide how many days away you want to have, how much skiing you really want to do and how difficult you want your slopes to be.
   
   

3. Estimate the budget you will need for your heli ski vacation. This type of vacation can be quiet costly.

4. Decide where you want to go heli skiing. France is not an option and Europe is strictly monitored.

5. Calculate the risks of a heli ski trip in the heart of the backcountry. Some of the risks may include avalanches, cornices and crevices and don't forget you will be in unfamiliar terrain.

6. Research is always the key to a successful vacation and in heli skiing research is even more important. Find out what you can about the heli skiing company you are thinking of selecting and their guides. If you don't feel safe you will not have a good experience.

7. Go heli skiing with your boots and nothing else if you choose--trips include everything else.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not over-estimate your skiing ability—it is better that you under-estimate your ability.

Resources

• Provides information on great places to go heli skiing and courses to take.
• Online resource for skiers.

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