Why Heli Skiing Is Unlike Any Traditional Ski Experience

Skiing is an exciting winter sport that keeps thousands on the slopes. But, after years of skiing, it can become less interesting as the challenge lessens. Slopes that are accessible by ski-lift no longer offer enough of a challenge for some expert skiers. They are looking for something more. They want the thrill of powder snow spraying behind them, of unusual natural terrains and tree stands, and steep slopes that are not available in any ski resort settings. Only through heli skiing can they find these features and a challenge unlike any other.

These steep, high slopes are reachable only by helicopter. Highly trained guides, top-notch aircraft, and safety precautions make this a most comfortable endeavor. Even those with no mountain experience can enjoy this sport in the natural environment, under the guidance and tutelage of an expert heli ski guide.

This sport began in the 1960s. Canada is the most popular area for this sport, claiming over 90% of the overall market of this sport. Many other countries are involved, including the continental USA, but Canada, with it majestic mountain ranges, is the most popular of all. Average runs measure at around 2,000 feet, but runs are available as steep as 10,000 feet. Terrain includes Alpine glaciers and bowls, chutes, and tree glades. The different terrains vary based on where the operation is located. For example, some places have many old tree growths, so tree skiing is common, whereas in other places, that is not the case due to low lying tree lines. Snow powder quality varies by region as well. This allows a skier to choose the conditions they desire and go to that location.

The high ranges of these ski conditions are not reachable by any ski lift. The only access is through helicopter. The snow conditions and skiing challenges are also not available at any ski resort or ski setting at lower altitudes. The operation is one of two models. In one model, they helicopter acts basically as a ski lift, picking up the skier and delivering them at the top of the run. They ski down, are picked up again, and taken back up the slope to start all over. This can be done anywhere from five to twelve times daily. The other mode of operation is to take the skier near a high mountain peak, where they then work their way to the road, involving some ski mountaineering. They are working their way downward at the same time.

Skiing conditions vary from the ease of snow powder or corn snow, to the most difficult, such as a breakable wind crust. Wind and sun make the difference in the conditions. The guide experience and the ability of the helicopter pilot to maneuver high terrains help the crew to match conditions to the desires of the group. Usually, the powder snow is the most desired. Early winter, with colder temperatures, provides fluffy powder or sugar snow, giving easy, relaxing skiing. Going in spring give longer, warmer days, producing the creamy corn snow and longer ski time. This allows for longer ski verticals. In spring, a weeks worth of skiing can add up to over 150,000 feet accumulated during the week.

About the Author:
Bella Coola Heli Skiing runs skiing and snowboarding excursions to some of the best locations on the planet. Visit us online to see some amazing videos and read all about our boutique heli skiing experiences.

Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Why-Heli-Skiing-Is-Unlike-Any-Traditional-Ski-Experience/4231295

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