North American Guests
Northern Escape is known for hosting guests from all corners of the world. About half of our guests every year are from North America, and half from other countries, so you'll enjoy an international flair when you stay with us. Hospitality is as epic as the skiing. In fact, in 2022 and 2023, we were awarded ‘World’s Best Heli-Ski Operation.’ by the World Ski Awards.
Northern Escape has one of the world's largest heli-skiing tenures with breathtaking alpine terrain and amazing tree skiing. Our ski runs cover countless mountains and numerous mountain ranges.
Just how big?
- Over 30x larger than the world's largest ski resort area, Les 3 Vallées, in the French Alps
- Over 100x larger than Whistler/Blackcomb
Plus, many of our runs offer 2000 meters of vertical (6000 vertical feet). Imagine 3 of your typical ski resort mountains stacked! Wow!
Northern Escape vs. Ski Resorts
There are so many great resorts in the USA and Canada, but the experience is so different it's hard to know where to start. The typical resort in North America includes family-friendly hotels, pools, nightlife and dining options. Lift-accessed runs and parks designed for tricks, including ski schools definitely have their place in the ski world.
But deeeeeeeeep powder? No.
The feeling that it's just you and the mountain. No.
How about remote & luxurious lodges? Helicopters? Hmmm....
Resorts are really not even comparable. But to give you an idea...
More Vertical!
Let's take the most lift-served vertical feet of terrain in the U.S - Snowmass, Colorado. With a 4,406-foot elevation drop, it's pretty high! But that still pales in comparison to our 6000 vertical foot lines. And we're talking about many peak-to-bottom runs across our huge area.
More Powder!
World-famous resorts like Whistler/Blackcomb (British Columbia), Mt. Baker (Washington), Alta and Snowbird (Utah), or Mammoth Mountain (California) get their fair share of snowflakes. Annual snowfall of 300-400 inches is common at these resorts. Some years see epic dumps of 600-800 inches. West is best. Eastern Canadian and American resorts average 200-300 inches of snow per year and rely more on snow-making machines.
Northern Escape's location in the Northwest region of BC, near the Alaskan panhandle is ideally located for vast quantities of white stuff. Pacific storms bring plenty of powder to the Skeena and Kitimat Mountain ranges, mountains more than just about anywhere else on the planet. Our snowpack in December is more than most resorts get all winter. Boots deep? Waist deep? Neck deep? How deep do you like your snow?! Hint: the time of year has a big impact on powder depth.
Northern Escape vs. Other Canadian Heli-Ski Tour Operators
Many heli-ski companies claim to be the "world's best". It's almost cliché. Let's separate some facts from fiction...
Northern Escape Heli-Skiing |
Other Heli-Skiing Companies |
---|---|
Small ski groups of 4-5 people | Larger ski groups of up to 10 or even 11 people |
2 groups per helicopter | Usually 3-4 groups per helicopter (more standing & waiting for a ride) |
Deep, dry powder | Deep, dry powder |
Catskiing Backup on storm days when the helicopters can't fly | Unavailable |
Unlimited Vertical included | Optional $$$ to ski more |
Boutique and exclusive lodges | Variety of lodging from basic to luxury |
Gourmet all-inclusive meals | Varies, but often gourmet as well |
Private Lodge with dedicated staff (up to 5 guests) | Only available at a few specific operations |
Lodge Buyout (options for up to 10, or up to 16 guests) | Usually available depending on group size |
Easy Access. (90min flight Vancouver to Terrace. 15-20 shuttle to lodge via helicopter or bus) | Often more Difficult Access. Most heli-ski destinations involve long 4-8hr bus rides after you've flown to the closest airport. |
Actual Winner of World's Best Heli-Ski Operator (2022 & 2023), the industry's highest recognition. | Who knows? Maybe their mother thinks they're great? ;-) |
If heli-skiing is on your bucket list or you're looking for a step up from cat ski trips or other heli-skiing tour companies, Northern Escape is a fabulous choice. Read our reviews and see for yourself!
Medical and Travel Insurance
We recommend that all of our heli-skiing guests also purchase Medical, Trip Interruption, and Trip Cancellation Insurance. These options are provided to you at the time of booking. For more information about insurance, please see the Booking Policy and Conditions page. Also, each guest must read and sign the Release of Liability.
For more information or help with planning, please contact Northern Escape Heli-Skiing online or call us Toll-Free at 1-866-619-3184 to ask about any of our ski packages.