Small Group XL
For Experts Looking For a Fast Pace
YOUR CHOICE OF
4 Nights | 5 Nights | 7 Nights
- Ability Level Experts Only
- Group Size 4 (Tweedsmuir)
- Groups Per Heli 2
- Season Late
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Small Group XL heli skiing package is an experts-only program available exclusively with Bella Coola Heli Sports. The ski program includes 20% more vertical than the equivalent length Small Group Vertical program and is designed to take advantage of the unique character of the local mountains, which are big, bold, and beautiful.
This program is ideal for skiers and snowboarders wanting a faster pace and more aggressive heli-skiing experience alongside other like-minded individuals.
The primary objective of this program is to ski/ride hard and have as much fun as possible. With just 2 groups of 4 guests + 1 guide per group sharing an A-Star helicopter, there is little to no waiting between runs. The pace of the day will be fast, and when stability allows, we will endeavour to ski steep and technically challenging terrain.
Our guides will share expert knowledge on how to make smart decisions in complex terrain. They will also explain how to approach and ski challenging lines with safety at the forefront of all decision-making.
April consistently ranks at the top of the list when we survey our guides and past guests about the best time to ski in Bella Coola. With considerably longer daylight hours and a generally more predictable snowpack, guests ski longer days and have a higher probability of riding aggressive lines.
Given the vast quantity of annual snowfall received in Bella Coola, down days happen and you should be prepared for the possibility that you may not be able to ski every day. Our historical average over the season is 5.5 to 6 days of skiing for each 7-day week.
It is important to note that down days provide an opportunity for the snowpack to reset, for you to diversify your travel experience through a unique selection of lodge-specific activities, and for you to rest your legs so that you can ski all day in ideal conditions following the storm cycle.
IS THIS PROGRAM RIGHT FOR ME?
This program is appropriate for skiers and snowboarders who have substantial heli-skiing and/or backcountry experience and who can confidently navigate double black diamond terrain in all types of snow conditions - including anything from open alpine, to crud, to trees, through deep powder and mixed snow conditions. Note that our guides work best with groups that demonstrate a willingness to follow instructions closely. This gives them the confidence required to ski and ride the most aggressive terrain possible within the acceptable safety margins for the day's snow conditions.
WARNING: Do not overestimate your ability! On a program like this, our guides will quickly identify if you have accurately rated your ability level. If your ability is less than what you stated during the booking process, and it will impact the enjoyment of others in the group, we will either have you sit out of the more challenging runs or, if there is room in another program, we will move you to that program.
No refunds will be given if you are forced to sit out due to overestimating your ability as determined by your guide.
If you are considering the Small Group XL program, please call or email us so that one of our heli-ski advisors can determine whether this is the ideal program for you.
