Many of our guests and new heli-skiers have questions about MWHS heli-skiing, snowboarding and snowcat adventures. Please Contact Us if you have a question that has not been answered here.
In order to safely enjoy your vacation you should be at least an intermediate level skier/boarder. You should be capable of dealing with the challenges presented by deep snow, helicopter transportation and back country descents. First-timers and less advanced skiers /boarders are encouraged to develop their powder and back country skills with a snowcat or snowcat & heli package. Should guests be unable to satisfy these criteria, we reserve the right to restrict them from skiing - no refunds will be given.
Typically we ski/board 8-10 runs (approximately 17,000 vertical feet) each day. The type and number of runs as well as the length of the skiing day are determined by snow conditions, weather, time of year, and the group's abilities. On days with excellent weather, we ski more to maximize your enjoyment and skiing time.
No. The helicopter refuels two to three times per day. Your guide will gladly take you back to the lodge if the pilot can coordinate your flight out with the fuel run. Please advise your guide in advance if you know you will want to ski a partial day.
You should dress as you would for a sub-zero day at a ski resort. Waterproof technical outerwear with room for several layers underneath is best for powder skiing and variable weather. Some guests wear helmets, and we encourage you to do so but they are not mandatory. Helmets and ski wear are available in the ski shop. We supply shovel packs, but you may use your own small backpack to hold personal items but please note that personal items cannot be left in the helicopter while skiing.
In order to fully enjoy your heli ski/board vacation you should attempt to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle year-round. Appropriate off-season training includes cardiovascular exercise, stretching, and strength training to increase endurance. You may also wish to ski some full days and take a lesson to tune up your technique before your trip to Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing. Developing strength and balance through yoga, Pilates or the TBow may help to improve your skiing ability.
Our knowledgable and experienced Sports Shop staff will provide the equipment you need to enjoy your MWHS experience. At no extra charge, you can choose from a wide selection of Atomic Skis and Snowboards that are perfectly suited to our powder terrain. Your equipment will be adjusted to accommodate your ability and body size, tuned, then waxed each day for maximum performance. We also offer a selection of ski boots and snowboard boots, however most guests prefer to bring their own. If so, we highly recommend that you carry them as hand luggage during your travels to Blue River.
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