Coast Range Heliskiing FAQ
Do guests have to be an expert skier ?
No - this is a heli-ski myth that you must be an expert, if you are a confident intermediate skier in good shape you can heli-ski or heli-board.
Why fly only A-Star and Bell 407 helicopters ?
The A-Star and Bell 407 helicopters are fast dynamic machines that are quiet and nimble in the mountains and it provide a luxury experience for the smaller groups that we specialise in.
Is it extreme terrain ?
Again no, this is another myth. We cater to expert, advanced and intermediate skiers and riders, so we set the pace of the day and terrain to the group's ability. When conditions allow we can ski more aggressively.
What happens if we are mixed abilities ?
Each day we break into groups based on ability so that the faster skiers and riders can move at a pace that suits them and the slower groups move at a pace comfortable to them. This is one of the key benefits of skiing/riding in small groups.
How much does it cost ?
Our 4 Run "Discovery" Package is $960 CND plus HST. Guests can sign up for this package, then take the extra runs at $95 per person (based on a group of four), this option is available in the backcountry and many guests decide in the field as after their 4 runs they do not want to go home yet. We also offer a 6 Run "Powder Hound" Package at $1150 CND plus HST, with extra runs available at the same rate.
What is the benefit of Heli-skiing in small groups ?
Some heli-ski companies ski in large groups of 10 or more. We like to offer a more personal service where you get to know your guide, so we limit the group size to just four or five guests. Skiing in small groups makes it easier to match ability levels, reducing wait times and maximizing vertical so you'll do more skiing/riding.
Why Heliski with CRH ?
Guests prefer our friendly, personal service and small groups. Our prices are competitive and we promise the best powder, the best service, the best guides and the "Ultimate Backcountry Powder Experience". Just ask one of our delighted customers why they keep coming back.
What is your vertical guarantee ?
We do not specifically guarantee vertical feet skied in a day. Our packages are for the number of runs skied each day. However we do give a range, the 4 run package between 6,000 and 12,000 vertical feet and the 6 run package 9,000 to 18,000 of vertical. The weather and terrain together with the speed and ability of guests are the main factors in determining the vertical we cover. It's not unusual to get as much as 4,000 vertical per run on days with favourable weather, snow and avalanche conditions.
What is the Private "Powder Elite" Package ?
This is our ultimate package. Guests can hire the helicopter for a day for their own exclusive use. With up to four or five guests and their own guide we can fly deeper into the backcountry. This preferred service ensures the helicopter is always waiting for guests, allowing them to ski at their own pace and often skiing more runs and vertical than otherwise possible. Please see our brochure, flat sheets or call our office for more details. The
Private Package is ideal for groups looking to maximize their skiing or for friends and family groups looking for ideal quality together
What about avalanche risk ?
Avalanche is a real and serious risk when in the backcountry. All our guides are experienced professionals and are highly trained in avalanche safety. All guides are ACMG Certified (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides). It is important that guests listen to their guides and follow instructions fully. The guides are there to ensure all guests have a great and safe time in the backcountry. We do provide a full safety briefing and transceiver training for all guests every day before departure.
What happens in bad weather ?
On good days we fly in the high alpine on glaciers and alpine bowls. When the cloud level is lower we ski on lower slopes and in the trees. Our terrain is so varied and expansive that we can find great skiing and good
times every day. On those few days when we cannot fly we provide a full refund or reschedule clients if possible.
What is your deposit and cancellation policy ?
A deposit is required at the time of booking to reserve seats. We return deposits if people cancel with more than 24 hours notice, otherwise the deposit is non-refundable. A deposit of $200 per person per day is required at the time of booking to reserve seats. We return deposits if people cancel with more than 24 hours' notice, otherwise you will be charged the full package price.If we do not fly, due to weather you will receive a full refund. If we have to return early during the day due to bad weather the refunds will be as follows.. link to refund policy.
Why not wait to book at the last minute when we know the weather is perfect ?
If you do this, you run the risk that we are fully booked. We are a small operator with limited space so it is best to book in advance, especially in the busy season.
Do you provide photo or video service?
All of our guides carry digital cameras and take photos and video throughout the day. At the end of the day we have an après and slide show of the days excitement. We do sell the photo/video from the day with a pre-packaged promo CRH video for $35.00 plus gst tax.
What do I wear?
We recommend that guests wear what they would normally ski with at a ski hill. Goggles and a warm hat are mandatory.
If you have other questions, please call our office 1.800.701.8744 Our staff will be happy to assist you and provide answers.