First-Time Guide to Heli-Skiing

As a first-time heli-skier, safety is likely at the forefront of your mind—and rightfully so. At Bella Coola Heli Sports, we’ve been prioritizing safety since we first started guiding adventurers into BC’s breathtaking backcountry in 2003.

Your preparation for the backcountry begins long before you set foot on snow. Guest safety training begins with a 35-minute online safety briefing during booking. Think of it like the midterm before the final exam. Once you arrive at your lodge, our team will guide you through comprehensive and hands-on training, covering essential skills for your backcountry adventure.

We understand that stepping into a helicopter for your first run might feel daunting. That’s why our guides are not just experienced adventurers, but patient teachers and partners in your journey. They’re there to answer your questions and ensure you feel 100% confident before taking that exhilarating first step into the helicopter or out onto the mountaintop.

Your heli-ski adventure begins right at your lodge. A helicopter from our versatile fleet will pick you up, along with your guide(s) and fellow skiers. You won’t need to worry about loading your gear—your guide(s) will take care of everything.

As you lift off from the lodge, you’ll be treated to a brief yet breathtaking flight into the heart of the Coast Range. In just minutes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering peaks before gently descending to your first summit. And no, there’s no action-movie jump—our expert pilots ensure a smooth, safe landing, while your guide(s) help gather your gear and assist you in exiting the helicopter.

If you’re used to resort skiing, heli-skiing will be a whole new world. Forget about trail maps and groomed runs. Out here, there are no boundaries. But don’t let that intimidate you—our guides are pros at helping resort skiers make the transition.

Wondering about our world-class terrain?

Imagine a mountainscape of endless ski terrain with no one in sight except those in your group. Our terrain spans a whopping 14,000 square km or 3.55 million acres—choose your metric. Either way, it’s a lot. And it has it all, from open alpine bowls, steep faces, and couloirs; to natural half pipes, aesthetic spines, and dreamy glades of giant old-growth trees.

We’re incredibly fortunate to have an extraordinary and reliable bounty of snow in Bella Coola. Without getting too scientific, our vast terrain gets fresh powder snow with a consistency that helps it bond to the existing snowpack. The result? A stable snowpack with some of the most varied and compelling terrain for you to ski and ride on.

Long runs? You bet. At more than 2100 vertical meters, our longest will leave your legs begging for mercy. Quantity? With more than 1100 named runs and counting, our experienced guides are still pioneering first descents with guests.

At Bella Coola Heli Sports, we understand that heli-skiing can feel like a big step—but for those ready to take it, we offer a range of programs tailored to different abilities and preferences. Whether you’re relatively new to deep powder or a seasoned skier looking to push your limits, we have options that cater to your skill level and help you find your comfort zone.

Public Small Group Vertical Programs

Our public small group programs consist of either two or three groups, each led by its own guide, sharing one helicopter. For those new to heli-skiing, the three-group program is an excellent choice. It moves at a slightly slower pace than two-group programs, offering a more balanced experience. With smaller group sizes and a supportive atmosphere, Eagle Lodge provides a great environment for first-timers to ease into the adventure.

Private Helicopter & Lodge Program

Ideal for groups of skiers with similar ability levels, our program enhances the heli-skiing experience by fostering a fun, social atmosphere.

Available at Sand Creek Ranch (for up to 5 guests) and Pantheon Heli Ranch (for up to 9 guests), each of these locations features two guides for personalized support—one head guide to navigate the terrain and one tail guide to assist with falls and offer coaching as needed.

Additionally, the program is offered onboard the MV Cascadia in a 2 or 3-group format, with one guide per group.

Private Helicopter Shared Lodge Program

This option is perfect for those looking for personalized guidance and flexibility. You’ll have the freedom to move at your own pace, choose runs that match your skill level, and focus on personal growth—without feeling rushed or waiting for other groups.

Heli-skiing is just half the story—your perfect basecamp awaits among British Columbia’s most breathtaking backdrops in the Bella Coola Valley and on the Chilcotin Coast. Seek solitude in an exclusive hideaway, join kindred spirits in a vibrant social setting, or claim an entire lodge for your group’s exclusive use. It’s a choose-your-own adventure experience.

Whether you’re nestled in a luxury chalet, embracing ranch life, or floating on our one-of-a-kind catamaran, each destination promises West Coast cuisine, warm hospitality (we are Canadian, after all), and the perfect après atmosphere to relive the day’s mountain adventures.

When the sun sets, tour downtime will be anything but dull. Each destination offers an elevated array of unique amenities. Soothe tired muscles in outdoor hot tubs with panoramic mountain views. Sweat it out in cedar saunas or maintain your routine in our fully-equipped fitness studio. For those who can’t sit still, we offer outdoor pursuits ranging from axe throwing to archery and Via Ferrata to aerial tree canopy climbing. Later, unwind with a drink from our vibrant bar or relax by the warmth of a crackling fire.