Your Heli Day
This is where it all begins.
The warmth of the lodge’s stone fireplace, the sharp cold of morning air, the low pulse of the helicopter as it comes to life—your first heli day starts with simple, unmistakable signals that you’re stepping into something different. Heli skiing isn’t just another day on snow. It’s an experience defined by scale, adventure, and terrain that feels almost unreal when you first see it.
So what does the day actually look like? And how do you get ready for it? After nearly five decades of guiding guests into these mountains, we’ve refined the process to be smooth, clear, and welcoming. You’ll learn what you need to know, settle into the rhythm quickly, and spend the rest of the day focused on the skiing—not the logistics.
Your Heli Day
Your Heli Day
Arrival + Check-In
Your day starts at the Hillcrest Hotel, home base for Selkirk Tangiers. Check in, meet the team, and get your itinerary for the days ahead. The lodge is warm, comfortable, and built for early mornings and tired legs—timber, stone, and big mountain views set the tone without trying too hard. Rooms are quiet, comfortable, and close to everything you need. After travel or a full day outside, the goal is simple: rest well and be ready for the next morning.
Morning Prep
Time to fuel for the day! Breakfast is a full buffet designed for a long day in the mountains. After breakfast, you’ll meet your guide. They’ll walk you through avalanche transceiver training and the essential safety procedures for the day. Gear pickup is quick and organized so you can focus on the skiing, not the logistics.
The Flight and Terrain
Once you’re loaded and airborne, the scale of the terrain becomes real. Selkirk Tangiers operates in over half a million acres of mountains—alpine bowls, long glades, and deep snow that stacks up 40–60 feet each winter. Your guide chooses terrain based on conditions and stability, aiming for the best skiing available that day.
The Skiing
Now for the main event. Expect a mix of wide‑open alpine and sheltered tree runs, depending on weather. The pace is steady but not rushed. You’ll ski, regroup, refuel, and keep moving through the terrain as the day unfolds.
Back at the Lodge
When the helicopter sets down for the final time, you’ll drop your gear and head to après. It’s relaxed—people sharing stories from the day, warming up, and winding down. Some guests keep it low‑key, others stay and chat. Either way, it’s a lovely way to end the day.
Rest + Repeat
Whether you’re here for a single day or a multi‑day trip, the rhythm stays the same: good food, big terrain, and memorable time in the mountains.
Not sure which package is right for you?
We’ve made it easy to find your best fit. Our quick Ability Checker will help match you with the trip that suits your skills, style, and comfort level.