For those of you looking to experience heights that a ski lift can never get to, choose Canadian heli skiing and you will be skiing amidst the clouds.
The concept behind the sport is simple. A helicopter takes you to the top of the slopes, drops you off, and you ski down to the pick-up point farther downhill assisted by experienced mountain guides. This allows you to reach the highest runs possible and try out multiple different terrains. Besides a chance to experience dreamlike views from these heights, you will get access to pure, untouched snow, not to mention that crowding will never be a problem. Canada heli skiing is a select sport by nature, and most operations cater to small, homogenous groups.
With numerous locations offering heli skiing throughout British Columbia, finding the right spot shouldn't be a problem. There is a reason why heliskiing BC Canada has become so popular all over the world. The district offers hundreds of runs that will take you over a variety of terrain features, including glaciers, steep drops, chutes and tree glades. Since none of these rides is groomed, skiing down the mountainside is a genuine wilderness experience every single time.
One of the best places to go heli skiing in BC, Canada, is Revelstoke. You can also find superior heliskiing BC opportunities in the Cariboo, Monashee, Selkirk and Purcell Mountain regions. Canada heliskiing may seem extreme, but despite the high altitudes and the adrenaline-filled helicopter rides, most runs aren't much more difficult than on traditional ski hills. This renders the heli skiing experience suitable even for moderate level skiers.
All accredited heli skiing operators send at least one professional guide to join each group of skiers heading up the mountain, to lead the guests and to ensure that everyone stays safe during trips. Avalanches are generally uncommon in BC, although they could occur under some conditions, one of them being high altitude powder snow. Because of that, your tour operator will do everything it takes to mitigate this risk, which could even mean postponing or canceling out ski trips in unstable snow. Still, irrespective of what weather and snow forecasts may indicate, you will always carry around transceivers and other avalanche safety equipment.
As far as skiing equipment is concerned, all you really need is the right pair of skis. If you already own skis for powder snow, or "all-mountain" skis, you should be just fine with that. However, most Canada heli skiing operators also give you the chance to rent skis on location, so you don't have to carry your own. To ensure the best conditions, both for skiing and safe helicopter flights, book your trips from December through April.
On an ending note, take into account that the magic of Canada heli skiing doesn't come cheap. This isn't a sport for the budget conscious, so expect to pay a few thousand or more for a 2-day package. Longer packages and more vertical feet will further add to the costs of practicing this sport.