Backcountry
Brains
Heli-skiing is considered the ultimate ski experience and is on many die-hard skiers and snowboarders’ bucket lists. As adventure seekers of this exhilarating sport search for the ultimate snow-laden escapades, the world’s best heli-ski operators rise as the gatekeepers to this unparalleled alpine experience.
Each individual will have different factors that are important in the decision-making process regarding the best heli-skiing operation. Below we uncover the best operators in Canada, the United States, Japan, New Zealand, and India based on public reviews on Powderhounds.com. The results are the best overall scores based on snow quality, terrain, helicopters, safety, guides, value, and fun factor. The majority fall in the province of British Columbia, Canada, which shouldn’t be too much of a surprise as it is a mecca for heli-skiing and its birthplace.
#5 Silvertip Heli-Skiing, BC
Silvertip Heli-Skiing, located in the majestic Cariboo Mountains in British Columbia, offers the ideal formula for heli-skiing bliss, with high-quality powder, a large tenure, and a remote rustic lodge. It offers unlimited vertical with a focus on quality skiing as the guides will go where the best conditions are located. The lodge is isolated but still easy to access from Vancouver International Airport and accommodates up to 16 guests who ski in groups of eight for private heli-skiing.
#4 Tyax Heliskiing, BC
Located in the heart of the Southern Chilcotin Range near Gold Bridge, BC, Tyax Heliskiing offers deep, fluffy powder and white carpet treatment. What makes Tyax stand out is its single-group heli-skiing with unlimited vertical. Being the only group allows the ultimate flexibility and freedom. No waiting for the helicopter or slower groups means you take advantage of unlimited vertical to the fullest.
#3 Points North Heli Skiing, AK
If you value fresh powder above all else, then Points North Heli Skiing is for you. With a unique location in Cordova, Alaska, where the storms from the Pacific Ocean meet the Chugach Mountains, Points North gets over 65 feet of snowfall annually. Some people think this makes this area the premier destination in the world for heli-skiing and boarding. With over a million acres of skiable terrain where you could bag a first descent, it is sure to please the rider who relentlessly pursues fresh powder above all else.
#2 Last Frontier Heliskiing, BC
Given the name, you might think that this heli-ski outfit is in Alaska, however, Last Frontier Heliskiing is located in British Columbia. It is far enough north that it’s adjacent to Alaska, and it’s just as remote. Its terrain tenure is 2.3 million acres. For reference, that is 280 times the size of Whistler Blackcomb, the largest ski resort in North America. And it’s not just the massive terrain, it gets over 80 feet of snowfall every year, which is the most of any North American heli-operator. Combine that with small groups of four guests and you can see why Last Frontier is dedicated to producing one-of-a-kind heli-skiing experiences for its guests.
#1 Skeena Heliskiing, BC
With over 2.35 million acres of terrain, Skeena Heliskiing is about a quarter the size of the entire country of Switzerland. With that much terrain, you know there is something for everyone and the cozy, wilderness luxury lodge brings the entire experience together. It only employs certified and highly experienced guides to ensure the safety of its guests. Only helicopter pilots with long-time heli-skiing and mountain flying experience are allowed to fly for the operation to keep guests safe while flying from run to run. Skeena prides itself on achieving everything at its true pinnacle, and I’m sure you would agree.
In the realm of heli-skiing, where the pursuit of powder and the quest for unparalleled adventure collide, these top operators stand out as the best for delivering unforgettable experiences. Not only for the skiing, but for their unwavering commitment to safety, service, and the sheer joy of the sport. Embrace the call of the mountains and let these heli-ski operators be your guides, elevating your next adventure to amazing heights among the world’s most awe-inspiring snowy landscapes.
