Like running a marathon or say trekking Nepal, going heli skiing is often on people’s list of things they want to do once their life. What often holds people back is their fear they are not good enough. In response to their most commonly asked question, Seven Descents, Australia’s leading ski adventure travel specialist has provided a checklist and given hope for those wondering whether they are in fact ‘good enough’ to heli ski.
Mark Poole, Founder and Managing Director of Seven Descents says, “If you ‘ve imagined yourself skiing deep powder and you’re looking at this check list, then you almost certainly have enough ability providing you prepare for your trip in terms of fitness and ski warm up. And to dispel one common myth out, you will NEVER find yourself jumping out of the helicopter to start your run. This is only seen in ski films from the 80’s, and so is the near vertical wall of snow with multiple 30 foot drops! But, you will certainly find yourself skiing or boarding miles of untracked powder. “To enjoy heli skiing, one should be a strong intermediate and above skier or snowboarder, and should ask themselves these questions:
1. Have I spent significant time on my skis or snowboard?
2 . Can I ski down a black run at my nearest hill?
3. Do I have experience in deep powder?
If the answer was ‘yes’ to all of the above, then heli skiing is definitely worth trying. If the answer is ‘no’, one should not despair. There are now specific heli ski preparation programs, as well as custom instruction to help prep for a heli ski journey. Greater time at the resorts will be needed to pick up these new skills, and heli ski consultants can prepare itineraries to suit these needs.
Seven Descents offers their tips on picking the right heli ski operation (http://www.sevendescents.com.au/
1. Look for small group heli skiing (6 or fewer clients per group) - Operations that fly in smaller, newer helicopters are better able to match the abilities of the group. This is critical to maximizing the enjoyment of your day, whether you are intermediate or expert.
2. Bring your own group - With 4 to 5 other mates of similar abilities, not only will you be able to retell your stories for years to come, but you will have a guide to yourself and have greater ability to choose the pace and terrain that best suits.
3. [Seek the most reputable operations - Some operate to higher standards than others. In Canada (home to 95% of the world’s heli skiing) it is worthwhile considering whether the operation is a full member of Helicat Canada, an industry body with the world’s highest operational industry standards.
4. Smaller operations for personalized service – Best to use an operation that is of reasonable size that runs multiple groups consistently throughout the season. The largest operations have approximately 50 guests at any one time, while more boutique operations have up to 24 guests. There is often no difference in price, but the smaller size allows a more personalized service.
5. Is the terrain and style right for you - Although almost all heli ski operations have a variety or terrain to suite all ski abilities, some are better suited to experts or intermediates than others. Be honest about your ability and what you are looking for when you’re talking to your agent or prospective heli ski resort.
For those wanting to try Heli Skiing, Seven Descents has custom itineraries to get warmed up at a resort, learn the essential skills and then experience Canada’s best heli skiing. They also have exclusive group booking promotions at Canada’s top heli and cat skiing destinations.
For bookings, or more information about Heli Skiing, visit http://www.sevendescents.com.au or call 1 300 66 76 77.
