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Heli Skiing Myths Debunked and What to Expect on Your Northern Escape Trip

Waiting for the ride out, but already dreaming of the next run—another epic day of deep powder skiing with Northern Escape Heli-Skiing!

Waiting for the ride out, but already dreaming of the next run—another epic day of deep powder skiing with Northern Escape Heli-Skiing!

Heli-skiing is an exhilarating adventure that’s often misunderstood, with many myths making it seem out of reach for all but the most experienced skiers. At Northern Escape Heli-Skiing (NEH), we’re here to clear up these misconceptions and show our guests that heliskiing is an accessible and safe experience for adventurers of all levels. From the terrain to the equipment, and even the safety measures, there’s much more to this thrilling activity than meets the eye.

High above the peaks, adventure awaits—deep powder skiing starts where the helicopter lands.

High above the peaks, adventure awaits—deep powder skiing starts where the helicopter lands.

Let’s break down some of the most common myths and reveal what you can truly expect on your Canadian mountain holiday

Myth 1: Heli-Skiing is Only for Experts

While heliskiing does require advanced skiing or snowboarding skills, it’s not just for seasoned professionals. At Northern Escape, we offer various terrain options suited to different skill levels, including intermediate and advanced choices. It’s essential to be a confident skier in ungroomed conditions, but there are opportunities for less experienced adventurers to participate with proper guidance and support. Whether you're after wide-open alpine bowls or legendary deep powder skiing, there's something for everyone.

Myth 2: You Need Special Equipment

While this may be true, we happily supply all the essentials for your trip. This includes powder ski (or snowboard) rentals, poles, and all your backcountry avalanche safety equipment. So the only special gear you need to bring is your favourite pair of ski boots. With top-tier gear provided, your luxury ski holiday just got even easier.

Myth 3: Heli-Skiing is Dangerous

Safety is our top priority at Northern Escape Heli-Skiing. We adhere to strict safety protocols, including avalanche safety training, hiring expert guides, and conducting comprehensive equipment checks. Our helicopters are piloted by experienced professionals, and the terrain is carefully assessed every day to minimize risks. When you choose Northern Escape, you're in the safest hands in the industry.

Myth 4: You Must Jump Out of a Helicopter


False! Albeit a fun daydream for some, we always land our helicopters in designated areas and focus on a safe, world-class heli-skiing experience. There’s no skydiving required—just smooth landings and untouched powder waiting for you.

Myth 5: Heli-Skiing is Inaccessible

With the Terrace airport being a short distance away from all three of our lodges, a luxury ski holiday has never been more accessible. Whether you’re based in North America, Europe, or beyond, our airport offers services through Air Canada Jazz and WestJet, making it easier to reach Northern Escape with minimal hassle—so you can spend more time in the backcountry and less time in transit.

Flying above as the adventure unfolds—Northern Escape delivers untouched powder and the ultimate heli-skiing experience

Flying above as the adventure unfolds—Northern Escape delivers untouched powder and the ultimate heli-skiing experience

So, there you have it! By busting these myths, it’s clear that heli-skiing at Northern Escape is an amazing and accessible adventure for thrill-seekers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to experience the rush of deep powder skiing in breathtaking landscapes, heliskiing is an unforgettable experience waiting for you. With top-notch safety, easy access, and all the gear you need, your next adventure is closer than you think.

Ready to take the leap on your next Canadian mountain holiday? Contact us now, we can’t wait to share some turns with you!