What is Heli-Skiing?
For many people visiting the Alps, there’s no greater thrill than carving through untouched powder on the remote mountain slopes. Away from the hustle and bustle of the resorts and perfect pistes, there is a whole world of towering peaks and unrivalled freedom. Welcome to the exhilarating world of heli-skiing.
Whether you’re an experienced skier looking for a new challenge or an adventurer wanting an unforgettable alpine experience, heli-skiing is an activity that needs to be experienced to be believed.
Here at Alpine Fleet, we help connect people to some of Europe’s most iconic skiing destinations. If you want to experience heli-skiing, we offer private and shared transfers to the Alps’ best destinations, and in this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about heli-skiing.
Read on for more information…
What is heli-skiing?
Heli-skiing is a unique form of off-piste skiing that sees a helicopter transport skiers to remote mountain locations that would not be possible to visit with ski lifts. Outside of a resort’s clearly defined boundaries, this allows people to reach the top of an untouched peak and ski through the deep powder snow, guided by professional instructors.
The origins of the sport stretch back to the late 1950s and early 1960s in Canada, pioneered by the Austrian skier Hans Gmoser. He realised that helicopters can offer exclusive access to some of the most incredible skiing terrain in the world. Since then, it has developed into one of the most exciting skiing activities, bringing the thrill of flight together with the joy of off-piste skiing.
It is now enjoyed all over the world, including in the Alps.
What is heli-boarding?
Heli-boarding is the snowboarding version of heli-skiing. Instead of skis, people are dropped off using snowboards from the helicopter. The activity itself is similar to its skiing counterpart, and sees people descend the slope, enjoying untouched powder and stunning scenery.
The main difference includes the technique, as snowboarders require slightly different conditions and safety equipment. Just like heli-skiing, heli-boarding is always guided by certified professionals who make sure the activity is enjoyed safely.
What are the main differences between resort skiing and heli-skiing?
While skiing in a resort and heli-skiing both involve descending down snowy mountains, there are a range of key differences, including:
Terrain
In a ski resort, you’ll be confined to marked runs and ski areas that are controlled and maintained. Heli-skiing takes you far beyond the resort into untouched wilderness where every ski run is unique.
Snow conditions
Heli-skiers enjoy fresh, deep snow that is rarely found on slopes in a resort. This makes for a completely different skiing experience.
Access
Instead of using ski-lifts or gondolas, you will access the slopes by helicopter. Each flight will deliver you to a new location with breathtaking views.
Skill level
Resort skiing accommodates all levels, but with heli-skiing, you will need some prior experience and confidence on the slopes, as the terrain is much more variable. It’s not something beginners should be trying.
Experience
Skiing in a resort is a great experience, but with heli-skiing, the journey to the slopes itself in the helicopter is just as exciting. This adds to the dramatic descent and the sense of immersion.
Can you do heli-skiing in the Alps?
Yes, heli-skiing regularly takes place in the Alps, but there are local laws and regulations that must be complied with. However, you should be aware that in France, heli-skiing is banned for environmental and safety reasons. Despite this, you can still enjoy the activity just across the border in Switzerland and Italy, where it remains legal and is extremely popular.
If you’re staying in Chamonix, one of the Alps’ and France’s most popular ski resorts, you can cross into Switzerland or Italy to enjoy heli-skiing.
How to dress for heli-skiing?
Having proper gear is essential for a safe and fun heli-skiing experience. Conditions can be extreme, so you’ll need to make sure you’re equipped with the following:
- Helmets: Tumbles are inevitable, so a quality helmet is non-negotiable. Most reputable heli-ski operators will not allow you to ski without one and will provide you with a suitable option.
- Clothing layers: These peaks are often very cold, so make sure you layer up. Three layers are recommended.
- Safety gear: You will be provided with safety gear like an avalanche safety kit, including a beacon, shovel and probe. You should be trained on how to use each item before you get going.
- Boots: Make sure you choose boots that are snug but not too tight. Comfort is important as you’ll be in them all day.
- Gloves: Choose gloves that are waterproof and offer a good grip. Again, consider how comfortable they are as you’ll be relying on them for a long period of time.
How good do you need to be at skiing?
Heli-skiing is not for beginners; it’s designed for those who are experienced and confident on the slopes and who are looking for a new challenge.
To get the most out of your experience, you should:
- Be comfortable on blue runs in resort conditions
- Have experience skiing on powder or at least be confident enough to learn quickly
- Be fit enough to handle long runs in deep snow
- Be confident at speed and can make quick turns
You don’t need to be a professional skier, and many operators offer different routes to suit ability levels. However, some confidence on the slopes is a must.
Private and shared transfers with Alpine Fleet
You can’t enjoy heli-skiing without first getting to the mountains, and this is where Alpine Fleet comes in.
Our private and shared transfers connect travellers from Geneva Airport and others in Europe to some of the most popular destinations and ski resorts in the Alps. Whether you’re planning a trip with friends, family or embarking on a solo trip, we offer:
- Private transfers: Giving you exclusive access to luxury vehicles with flexible schedules to suit your trip.
- Shared transfers: You’ll share the journey with others heading in your direction as we make frequent stops at resorts along the way.
For more information, contact our team today.
