CARIBOO CHILCOTIN COAST

Cat Operators

Backcountry Snowcats
Phone: 1-888-246-1111
Web: snowcats.ca
Location: Hurley Pass, Pemberton, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $858 for two days
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 15,000+ acres

Based in the Hurley Pass, north of Pemberton and south of Bralorne, Backcountry Snowcats’ tenure spans over 15,000 acres, with a unique and varied terrain that includes wide alpine bowls, sub-alpine chutes, pillows, and “badlands” burnt-tree lines.  Featuring a comfortable snowmobile-accessed lodge nestled in a remote area at 5,000 feet, and averaging 14,000 feet of vertical a day, shredders are shown the way with one lead and one tail guide to make sure everyone is safe and having a great time. And with only one cat and 12 riders on board, groups can have the place to themselves. What’s more, Vancouver and Seattle are both within easy reach.

Blackcomb Cat Skiing
Phone:  (604) 932-8484
Web: blackcombsnowmobile.com
Location: Whistler, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Full-day charter (10 guests) $3,500
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 4,000 acres

If you’re planning a trip to Whistler this season and looking to jazz up your ski holiday, check out Blackcomb Cat Skiing. With pick-up service from the Fairmont Chateau Whistler you’re taken to Brandywine where you can expect to shred 4,500-6,000 vertical feet and experience skiing great powder amidst open bowls and fun tree runs. It’s great to spend a day at the resort and the next in the backcountry with you and just nine other people—a perfect way to complement any ski trip.

Powder Mountain Catskiing & Catboarding
Phone:  1-877-PWDR-FIX
Web: powdermountaincatskiing.com
Location: Whistler, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: $499 per day
Extra vertical: Extra runs are included in the price; six to 10 runs per day
Tenure size: 4,300 acres

Photos in magazines labeled “Whistler backcountry” almost guarantees it was shot at Powder Mountain Catskiing. Owned by snowboard legends Don Schwartz and Ken Achenbach, they know epic terrain and awesome powder, having traveled the world looking for both. On their doorstep, 20 minutes south of Whistler they found the magic combo. Powder Mountain gets pounded with double the snow Whistler Blackcomb is famous for, while epic trees and wide open bowls fill your six-to-10 run day. The record is 13 runs so if you like to ski or ride hard, or are just learning to ride powder, this is the place.

Heli Operators

Bella Coola Heli Sports
Phone: (604) 932-3000  
Web: bellacoolahelisports.com
Location: Bella Coola, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Packages start at $4,280 for three days
Extra vertical: $42 per 1,000 feet
Tenure size: 1,500,000 acres

If it’s a small group setting you’re after, Bella Coola is one place to check out. Specializing in private and semi-private groups, the operation only uses small, five-passenger Astar helicopters. Located a short distance away from the town of Bella Coola, skiing on both your arrival and departure day is possible. Accommodating you in private chalets, guests can enjoy fine dining, entertainment, and relax tired muscles with a massage at the on-site spa in the historic Tweedsmuir Park Lodge. Offering endless high peaks, open bowls, walls of granite, and alpine tree glades, Bella Coola caters to those with some money to spend and a passion for great skiing.

Coast Range Heliskiing
Phone: 1-800-701-8744
Web: coastrangeheliskiing.com
Location: Pemberton, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Four-run package starts at $880
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 200,000 acres

If you’re going to Whistler for the weekend and want to get in a day of backcountry shredding, bookmark Coast Range Heliskiing. Equipped with an A-Star helicopter and on-site daylodge, Coast Range can offer something a big resort can’t: a small, intimate group setting, perfect for you and your friends to have a great and memorable time. Situated amidst terrain that features high alpine bowls, glaciers, faces, and sub-alpine tree-skiing, and offering day and multi-day trips in affordable packages, Coast Range is a great way to enjoy the exhilaration of heliskiing without the jarring jolt to your wallet.

Dream Catcher Heliskiing
Phone: 1-888-799-5278
Web: dreamcatcherheliskiing.com
Location: Bella Coola, BC
Season: January-April
Price range: Starting at $4,500 for a four day package
Extra vertical: $32.80 per 1,000 feet
Tenure size: 834,000 acres

Offering a choice of boat or hotel-based tours, and even a combination of the two, Dream Catcher caters to those looking to get away in a smaller group setting. The boat tour accommodates eight, includes a private chef, and has the advantage of mobility by moving to several different harbours. The hotel accommodates 15 with private rooms, a lounge, bar, and a menu that features Korean, Japanese and Canadian cuisine. The terrain is over 60 per cent glaciated and open-bowl skiing, and consists of four individual zones, separated by three inlets. Payment in full is required 10 weeks prior to your trip, and it’s recommended that you book three to six months in advance.

Helivision Sport Inc.
Phone: 1-866-HELI-VIS
Web: helivisionsport.com
Location: Squamish, BC
Season: Year-round
Price range: Starting at $745 for four runs
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: North Vancouver to south of Whistler (Jervis Inlet)

Offering pick-up service at Vancouver Harbour Heliport, you can be at the start of your first run within 10 minutes. Specializing in custom packages that appeal exclusively to private and semi-private groups, Helivision is able to cater to very particular needs. With four or five skiers per group and three groups per helicopter, be sure to have your camera handy while taking in the view of the Jervis and Bute Inlets.

Knight Inlet Helisports
Web: knightinletheliskiing.com
Location: Sointula, BC
Season: January-April
Price range: N/A
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: N/A

Located along the Coast Mountains of BC, you can expect to have plenty of fun on this all-inclusive heliski vacation. Knight Inlet gratifies those with varying ski abilities who want to experience a great heliski adventure. You can expect to shred terrain ranging from wide-open glacial bowls to steep couloirs and gladed tree-skiing.

Pantheon Heli Skiing
Phone: (604) 932-3000
Web: pantheonheli.com
Location: Pantheon Range, BC
Season: January-April
Price range: Starting at $11,860 for a one-week stay
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 500,000 acres

Mount up at the White Saddle Ranch, your home for the next week and the hub of Pantheon Heli Skiing. Specializing in private and semi-private groups, Pantheon caters to eight skiers who will have 1,800 km2 of terrain at their fingertips. With a guide allocated per four people and only two groups riding out of each helicopter, there is no need to farm snow. Set amidst a heavily glaciated mountain landscape that provides a reliable and stable snowpack and allows for more varied ski terrain, the area has been used in the past as a backdrop for Hollywood flicks K2 and Seven Years in Tibet—that’s gotta count for something, right?

TLH Heliskiing
Phone: 1-800-667-4854
Web: tlhheli.com
Location: South Chilcotin Mountains, BC
Season: Middle of December-April
Price range: Two-day trip starts at $2,732
Extra vertical: $30 per 1,000 feet
Tenure size: 865,000 acres

Your stay starts at the Tyax Resort, which features a log lodge built on the shores of Tyaughton Lake. With an impressive dining room and lounge as the focal points of the lodge, the former offering a diverse menu, you have no choice but to relax at the end of a great day of riding. With over 300 runs in an area that spans 830,000 acres, and an altitude that reaches between 3,000 and 9,000 feet, it’s roughly 200 times bigger than Vail. Two groups of 11 skiers each ski out of one helicopter, and you can expect runs that start in high-alpine bowls and end through the trees at the valley bottom. Packages range from two to seven days, and also include Whistler combos and Gold/Platinum Private Tours.

Whistler Heli-Skiing
Phone: (604) 932-4105 or 1-888-HELI-SKI
Web: whistlerheliskiing.com
Location: Whistler, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: $750-$1,070 per day
Extra vertical: $85-$95 per run
Tenure size: 988,000 acres

Located in the heart of the Village, Whistler Heli-Skiing caters mostly to resort clientele and offers day, multi-day and private trips for those who would like to plan a last-minute adventure or those who plan a few months in advance. Its demographic ranges from intermediate to advanced, but also provides for the most seasoned heliskier veteran. A quick shuttle out of town takes you to an awaiting 173 glaciers and 475 runs with a potential 30,000 vertical feet of skiing. So if you’ve never gone heliskiing before and all you can afford is one day, this is a great way to start an expensive addiction.

THOMPSON OKANAGAN

Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing
Phone: 1-800-661-9170, (250) 673-8381
Web: wiegele.com
Location: Blue River, BC
Season: Late November-early May
Price range: Three-day package starts at $4,047
Extra vertical: Included—80,000 vertical feet guaranteed with seven-day package
Tenure size: 1,200,000 acres

Known as one of the oldest and most established heli operations in Canada, Mike Wiegele has had the time to build their operation. With 22 individual cabins, a private estate called the Bavarian House accommodating 16 guests, and the recent addition of the Albreda Lodge, they’ve got their bases covered. Encompassing the Monashee and Cariboo Mountain Ranges, Wiegele’s operation provides access to all types of imaginable terrain. If you have a member of your group who is hesitant to get on a heli, snow cats are also available to allow for an easier introduction to powder. With four female guides on staff, women-only groups are also available.

Robson Helimagic
Phone: 1-877-454-4700
Web: robsonhelimagic.com
Location: Valemount, BC
Season: January-March
Price range: Starting at $599 per day
Extra vertical: $85 per 1,000 metres
Tenure size: 370,700 acres

Situated in Valemount, BC, Robson HeliMagic caters to the heliskier looking for a small-group atmosphere at an affordable price. Offering day, multi-day and private group packages, you can expect to rack up as much as 28,000 metres in vert during your trip. With terrain that features open snowfields, glaciers, treed runs, and a variety of snow conditions, you’re sure to have an epic heli adventure. Robson HeliMagic also works with the Best Western Valemount and Caribou Grill, and includes meals and accommodations in their multi-day packages, which is awesome for some après pints in the evening.

NORTHERN BC

Bearpaw Heli-Skiing
Phone: 1-866-550-HELI
Web: bearpawheliskiing.com
Location: Sinclair Mills, BC
Season: January-April
Price range: Starting at $4,785
Extra vertical: $30 per 1,000 feet
Tenure size: 1,235,500 acres

Launching into its first ski season, Bearpaw Heli-Skiing, based one hour from Prince George, is the newest heli operation in BC and boasts tree-skiing as its specialty. One dimension the company attempted to embody while building this operation was to ensure a small footprint on Canada’s untouched backcountry. With an emphasis on sustainability, Bearpaw recovered and restored three hand-hewn log cabins, but merging the old and the new, guests can expect all the modern-day amenities. Since you’re up in Northern BC, you’ll also have plenty of face shots and fun amidst dry powder, open-gladed tree-skiing, high-alpine, and glaciated runs. While still the new kid on the block, Bearpaw nevertheless recommends booking early, as trips are filling up for 2009.

Crescent Spur Heli-Skiing
Phone: 1-800-715-5532
Web: crescentspur.com
Location: Crescent Spur, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Semi-private, five day/six night trip starts at $5,725
Extra vertical: $28 per 1,000 feet
Tenure size: 596,500 acres

Operating amidst the Rocky and Cariboo Mountains, and located two hours from Prince George, Crescent Spur Heli-Skiing specializes in private and semi-private tours. The on-site lodge offers large bedrooms, a game room, sauna, and family-style dining room. With two mountain ranges at your fingertips, you can expect to shred anything from open alpine bowls and glaciers to glade and treed terrain, with each run varying in length from 1,500 to 4,000 vertical feet. If you plan on a five-day trip, note that 100,000 vertical feet is included in the package. And if you’re set on a particular date, Crescent Spur recommends booking at least 16 months in advance for more availability, or check the website frequently for last-minute openings.

Klondike Heliskiing
Phone: (250) 651-2200
Web: atlinheliski.com
Location: Atlin, BC
Season: January-April
Price range: Packages starting at $6,970
Extra vertical: $89 per 1,000 metres
Tenure size: N/A

What was an old gold-mining town, Atlin, BC, is your destination for Klondike Heliskiing. With over 300 runs, Klondike is able to cater to everyone from the first-time heliskier to the seasoned veteran.

Last Frontier Heliskiing @ Bell 2 Lodge
Phone: 1-888-655-5566
Web: lastfrontierheli.com
Location: North coastal mountains and the Skeena Mountains, BC
Season: Middle of December-April
Price range: Three day package starts at $3,470
Extra vertical: $98.55 per 1,000 metres
Tenure size: 2,224,000 acres

The Bell 2 Lodge, once a basic service station for travelers on their way to Alaska and the Yukon, is now a modern-day heliski village. One of two lodges under the Last Frontier Heliskiing name, the Bell 2 accommodates guests in log chalets a mere 100 metres from the main lodge. With access to over 2.2 million acres that span BC’s northern coastal mountains and Skeena Mountains, which are all heavily glaciated, you’re in for a variety of terrain. The Bell 2 crew serves a demographic that embodies a passion for great snow and has the ability to ride a black-diamond run under varied conditions.
 
Last Frontier Heliskiing @ Ripley Creek
Phone: 1-888-655-5566
Web: lastfrontierheli.com
Location: North coastal mountains and the Skeena Mountains, BC
Season: Early January-April
Price range: Three-day package starts at $3,470
Extra vertical: $98.55 per 1,000 metres
Tenure size: 2,224,000 acres

Located in the old mining town of Stewart on the Alaska border, the Ripley Creek Inn is the second operation under the Last Frontier name. The Inn features rooms with en-suite bathrooms, queen size beds, and down duvets, while guests dine at the Bitter Creek Cafe, which has an historic feel and features a bistro-style menu. With access to exciting mountain ranges that offer glaciers, open bowls and tree runs, guests can expect a limitless amount of challenging terrain. A convenient transfer program is available from Vancouver, and with three, four and seven-day packages that have guaranteed vertical, Last Frontier makes it easy to plan your next shred adventure.

Northern Escape Heli-Skiing
Phone: 1-866-619-3184
Web: northernescapeheliskiing.ca
Location: Terrace, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $3,230
Extra vertical: $119 per 1,000 metres
Tenure size: 1,408,500 acres

Operating from three different lodges, and located 30 minutes from the Terrace airport, each lodge offers a unique atmosphere and a variety of package options. With a tenure that is the fourth largest in the world, guests can expect a plethora of terrain options. Besides the semi-private and family packages that are available, there are two packages to take note of: The “Classic,” which is designed for the “classic” heliskier, who enjoys fine dining and lodging; and the “Steeps Camp,” which caters to the younger, more adventurous skiers and riders who seek the lines often seen in shred flicks. With a 70 per cent return rate, Northern Escape suggests booking as early as possible to ensure flexible availability.

Peace Reach Heli-skiing
Phone: 1-866-575-4354
Web: peacereachheliski.com
Location: Hudson’s Hope, BC
Season: January-April
Price range: N/A
Extra vertical: $135 per run
Tenure size: 1,483,000 acres

Situated amidst the Northern Rockies lays Peace Reach Heli-Skiing. With a variety of day and multi-day packages available, they offer something to suit even the most particular needs. Getting here requires shuttles from Fort St. John, BC, via Calgary or Vancouver.

Skeena Heliskiing
Phone: (250) 847-4147
Web: skeenaheliskiing.com
Location: Smithers, BC
Season: Middle of December-April
Price range: Starting at $6,800 for semi-private
Extra vertical: $110 per 1,000 metres
Tenure size: 2,039,000 acres

A drive three hours north will lead you to the four-star Bear Claw Lodge. Catering to a higher-end demographic, Skeena spares no expense. With a vast amount of versatile terrain, featuring glades and wide-open glaciers, and a maximum of five people per group, you’re in for some exciting and challenging runs. To reserve at Skeena you better plan ahead, as it is recommended that you book at least eight months in advance, with payment in full required 90 days before your arrival. And if you book before April 30 for the following year, you’ll receive a five per cent discount.

Tulsequah Heliskiing
Phone: (867) 634-2224
Web: tqhheliskiing.com
Location: Haines Junction, YT
Season: January-April
Price range: Packages starting at $6,780
Extra vertical: $100 per 1,000 metres
Tenure size: N/A

Located 35 miles north of Juneau, Alaska, and close to the BC and Alaska borders, is Tulsequah. What was originally a historic gold mine is now TQH’s main lodge. Serving 10 guests at a time, you can expect a menu featuring daily pastries and gourmet food, perfect for the refined palate. With a variety of packages ranging from private to semi-private, you can expect to rack up 35,000 vertical feet over your trip. And with backcountry pros such as Victoria Jealouse, Jeremy Jones, and Seth Morrison filming at TQH, you know they’ve tapped into something worth experiencing personally.


BC ROCKIES

Cat Operators

Baldface Lodge
Phone: (250) 352-0006
Web: baldface.net
Location: Nelson, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Packages starting at $1298.73
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: N/A

There’s been a lot of hype around Baldface Lodge, with its epic powder and amazing accommodations. And it does indeed take fine dining and lodging to the extreme. Located just north of Nelson, it’s equipped with private chalets and a main lodge, which has double-occupancy rooms, as well as massage and lounge areas—perfect for planning a trip with that special someone. Baldface recommends skiers and boarders be in good physical condition and have advanced to expert riding abilities. With a variety of packages throughout the low and peak seasons, there are a slew of options to meet an assortment of needs.

Big Red Cats
Phone: (250) 362-2271
Web: bigredcatskiing.com
Location: Rossland, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $359 per day
Extra vertical: Price includes unlimited vertical
Tenure size: 18,500 acres

Located at the base of Red Mountain Resort in the Red Shutter lodge, Big Red has four snowcats to meet customer needs. The only operation to have individual cats dedicated to expert, advanced and intermediate riders, it’s a great way to get out to the backcountry for the first time in a non-intimidating fashion. Although the majority of skiers and riders that go to Big Red are men, they encourage women to come out by offering the fairer sex half-price packages during the first two weeks of January. The terrain is set among the Monashee Mountains, which are known for some of the best tree-skiing in the world.

Chatter Creek Mountain Lodges Ltd.
Phone: 1-877-311-7199
Web: chattercreek.ca
Location: Golden, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Packages starting at $1,710
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 58,800 acres

Offering both cat and heliskiing, Chatter Creek serves alike the seasoned heliskier and the first-time catskier, which is great for those planning a group trip. Chatter’s catskiing tenure is an ample 58,000 acres, so expect to shred anything from tree runs and old burns to open alpine bowls and high-altitude glaciers. The operation’s heli tenure stretches to 120,000 acres and offers much of the same, plus extremely high-elevation skiing. Accommodations consist of 20,000 feet of hand-built log lodges that house 36 guests, Rocky Mountain fusion cuisine, a hot tub, and a massage therapist.

Fernie Wilderness Adventures
Phone: 1-877-423-6704
Web: fernieadventures.com
Location: Fernie, BC
Season: December-March
Price range: Starting at $350 per day
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 11,000 acres

If you’re heading to Fernie for a family vacation, bookmark Fernie Wilderness Adventures. Specializing in single and multi-day catskiing packages, spending one day at the resort and the next shredding the backcountry is totally doable. There is a backcountry lodge located 20 minutes from Fernie that can accommodate guests who would like to stay on-site. The terrain is predominantly gladed tree-skiing with occasional tree bands that lead into open chutes, which is suitable for strong intermediate and advanced skiers. Pre-booking is recommended, although calling the day before may also work if space is available.

Great Canadian Heli-Skiing
Phone: 1-866-434-4354
Info: canadianheli-skiing.com
Location: Halfway between Golden and Revelstoke, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Packages starting at $2,786
Extra vertical: Unlimited vertical, no charge
Tenure size: 494,000 acres

If a quick two to four day trip is what you’re looking for, Great Canadian has packages available to meet your needs. Having unlimited vertical included in the package price, and small groups of four shredding at one time, means a perfect backcountry getaway. Easily accessible from the Trans-Canada, Great Canadian indulges the heliskiing fix for many riders from Alberta, BC, and Ontario. With a vast tenure that spans both the Purcell and Selkirk mountain ranges, Great Canadian is smack-dab in the middle of the Interior powder belt. This is sure to please, as plenty of pow and a lodge built with the heliskier in mind provide a perfect setting for your heli adventure.

Great Northern Snowcat
Phone: 1-800-889-0765
Web: greatnorthernsnowcat.com
Location: Trout Lake, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $2,350 for a three-day package
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 13,800 acres

Located 1.5 hours south of Revelstoke, Great Canadian prides itself on providing an intimate setting for your catskiing adventure. The operation has opted for just one cat and only serves a single group of 16 skiers per week. The demographic of skiers varies, but consists mostly of mature, 35-year-old-plus singles, couples and groups. The private lodge on-site consists of single and double-occupancy rooms, a sauna, games room, and a menu offering cuisine that is both eclectic and extraordinary. What’s unique is that the cat picks up guests directly from the same lodge they ski back to at the end of the day.

Highland Powder Skiing
Phone: (250) 366-4260
Web: highlandpowderskiing.com
Location: Meadow Creek, BC
Season: January 1-March 31
Price range: Starting at $650 per day
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 42,000 acres

Nestled in the Selkirk mountain range, Highland Powder Skiing is your host for a shred adventure like few others. Maintaining an intimate atmosphere, Highland accommodates only one group at a time, making it a great place for you and your friends to go and have the entire place to yourselves. Accommodation is on-site, with guests staying in double-occupancy rooms that are connected via a covered walkway with the main lodge, which features a fireside rec room and dining area. With flexible packages ranging from three to five days, guests can look eagerly forward to catskiing 10,000-18,000 of vertical per day.

Island Lake Lodge
Phone: 1-888-422-8754
Web: islandlakeresorts.com
Location: Fernie, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $375-$940 per day
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 7,000 acres

If it’s a luxury ski experience on your mind, Island Lake is one operation worth a very close look. Appealing to skiers aged 40 to 65, Island Lake offers up all imaginable lavishness while taking you on a superior ski adventure. Ladies will appreciate Island Lake’s attention to detail and its women-only ski camps. Featuring a female cat driver and guides, it’s a great place to catski in a supportive environment and perfect for a girls’ getaway weekend. With ski-in ski-out deluxe lodging, a full-service spa, gourmet food, some of the best powder around, and located just 15 minutes west of Fernie, Island Lake is a backcountry experience fit for kings and queens.

Monashee Powder Snowcats
Phone: 1-866-678-7669
Web: monasheepowder.com
Location: West Kootenays, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $450 per day
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 17,000 acres

Your adventure starts at the Tsuius Lodge, conveniently located in the middle of Monashee’s terrain, which makes your first run in the morning super accessible. Featuring 12 guest rooms, a soothing outdoor hot tub, and fine cuisine, it’s the hub of your vacation. Staffed with guides committed to safety, they’ll work with individuals to ensure each guest has a good time. Their visitors range widely, as they have catered to skiers between the ages of 10 to 78 who arrive with all types of equipment. Packages range from two to four days, and include bus and snowcat transport from Cherryville, BC. Contact Monashee directly for you preferred dates.

Mustang Powder Cat Skiing
Phone: 1-888-884-4666
Info: mustangpowder.com
Location: Northwest Revelstoke, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $500 per day
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 30,800 acres

Located on the west side of the Monashee range, Mustang is in a pocket that typically receives an abundance of snow. Because of the massive snowfall, Mustang recommends snowboarders be strong experts, and skiers a minimum of strong intermediates. While there is no charge for extra vertical, guests can expect to rack up between 15,000 and 20,000 vertical feet each ski day. With a 12,000 square-foot timbre-frame lodge on-site, guests stay in either single or double rooms with private washroom facilities. Usually 75 per cent booked for the following season by April, get it together early if Mustang’s your desired destination.

Powder Cowboy Catskiing
Phone: 1-888-422-8754
Web: powdercowboy.com
Location: Fernie, BC
Season: December-March
Price range: Starting at $375-$750 per day
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 6,000 acres

Island Lake Lodge’s sister resort, Powder Cowboy is located 40 minutes northwest of Fernie and offers a luxury ski getaway amidst a rustic ranch setting, which complements the overall shred experience. With friendly staff, gourmet food, and private log cabins within walking distance of the main lodge, you can take a stroll down to the outdoor hot tub or kick it with their on-site masseuse after a great day of shredding. The terrain is primarily tree-skiing with some steep ridgelines, chutes and bowls. Also offering women-only ski camps led by female guides and cat drivers, it’s a great environment to learn how to catski for the first time in a very encouraging setting.

Retallack Lodge
Phone: 1-800-330-1433
Web: retallack.com
Location: New Denver, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $600-$725 per day
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 15,000 acres

If you’re conscious about your carbon footprint, rest assured that the people at Retallack Lodge feel the same. Being environmentally-friendly, Retallack received a four Green Key ECOmmodation rating, the highest environmental rating for remote lodges. An hour from Nelson, BC, and catering to the more advanced rider, their tenure includes steep, deep and challenging fall-line tree-riding. The on-site 11,000 square-foot lodge sleeps 24, and has a fully licensed gourmet restaurant and bar—perfect for some après fun. With pro skiers Tanner Hall and Seth Morrison on the investors list, you know you’re in for a serious shred experience.

Revelstoke Catskiing
Phone: 1-800-663-7080
Web: revelstokemountainresort.com
Location: Revelstoke, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: $400 per day
Extra vertical: Unlimited vertical included in the price
Tenure size: 500,000 acres

If you’re planning on hitting up the Revelstoke Mountain Resort this year and want to try catskiing, Revelstoke Catskiing is the perfect place to do so. Skiing at the resort one day and out of the cat the next makes for a most memorable ski vacation. With a vast tenure that spans the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges, Revelstoke Catskiing offers a spectrum of intermediate to advanced terrain. You can expect to shred high-alpine bowls, glaciers, and sub-alpine gladed trees. The ability of the group will determine the terrain you access, so book early with friends to ensure a spot in the cat beside a similarly skilled bunch of pow fiends.

Selkirk Wilderness Skiing Ltd.
Phone: 1-800-799-3499
Web: selkirkwilderness.com.com
Location: Meadow Creek, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Packages starting at $3,320
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 78 km2

In business since 1975, Selkirk Wilderness has got the catskiing adventure on lock. Offering up a casual and friendly atmosphere in their cat-access-only timber-frame lodge, guests are greeted with home-style cooking and comfortable rooms. With runs reaching up to 4,000 vertical feet, you can expect to shred a total of 12,000-18,000 vertical feet throughout your stay. The location of Selkirk Wilderness allows for some epic snow conditions with terrain ranging from steep, cliff-riddled tree runs to 3,500-foot descents, which ultimately equals an amazing ski vacation. Book early as Selkirk Wilderness has an annual loyal following.

White Grizzly Cat Skiing
Phone: 1-800-843-5557
Web: whitegrizzly.com
Location: Meadow Creek, BC
Season: December-March
Price range: Starting at $425 per day
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 6,100 acres

With backcountry heavy hitters such as Terje Haakonsen and Eric Pehota heading out to White Grizzly, you know you’re in for an epic adventure. Known for steep and treed deep powder, White Grizzly accommodates only one group at a time, and emphasizes that guests be physically fit and able to handle their own in the backcountry in order to enjoy themselves to the fullest. With such vast tenure, the terrain features runs that are 30 to 45 degrees and 3,200 feet in length, and is obviously not for intermediates. This resort is strictly for experienced riders and skiers. With all the gnarly fun to be had, White Grizzly is still within the budget of the ski bum who’s had to succumb to the daily grind of a 9-to-5.

Wildhorse Cat Skiing & Powder Mining Co.
Phone: 1-888-488-4327
Web: skiwildhorse.com
Location: Ymir, BC
Season: December-March
Price range: Starting at $325
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 2,400 acres

With this one-cat operation in the west Kootenays servicing just 12 skiers per day, you’re ensured a close and cutting shred experience. Working with the Ymir Palace Inn and B&B allows guests to get out and enjoy themselves in the evenings. Features include home-cooked-style meals throughout the day, and skiing alpine and sub-alpine terrain for about 1,000 feet, with an additional 1,500 feet of glades and tree-skiing below. If you and your buddies are looking for an affordable catskiing adventure in a low-key setting that features sick terrain and a town pub for some après drinks, Wildhorse is worth checking out.

Valhalla Powdercats
Phone: 1-866-722-7669
Web: valhallapow.com
Location: West Kootenays, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $380
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 25,000 acres

Located between Nelson and Rossland, BC, heading out for a day of catskiing with Valhalla Powdercats is a great way to complement any ski getaway. A day-only operation, there is no accommodation on-site, but if you’re in the area shredding at Red or Whitewater and the crowds are too much, this is a good way to mix things up. With tenure that is deep in the Valhallas, you can expect to shred 3,000 vertical feet per run, and ski anything from big peaks and open alpine bowls to steep tree-skiing.

Heli Operators

Canadian Mountain Holidays
Phone: 1-800-661-0252
Web: canadianmountainholidays.com
Location: Banff, AB/Lodges all over BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $1,179 for three days
Extra vertical: N/A
Tenure size: 3,900,000 acres

One of the oldest heliskiing operations around, CMH is dialed in when it comes to helping you plan your heliskiing adventure, whether it’s your first or 15th outing. If you’re already planning a vacation to Banff this season, and would like to get away from the resort for a few days, CMH is a great place to start. With 12 ski areas and lodges to choose from, you can expect to shred terrain suitable for everyone including and between the first-time heliskier and the veteran backcountry enthusiast. With themed weeks throughout the season, such as “Chicks in the Chopper” and “Gay Heli-Ski Week in the Gothics,” you’re sure to find something fitting your preferences.

Eagle Pass Heliskiing
Phone: 1-877-929-3337
Info: eaglepassheliskiing.com
Location: Revelstoke, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Packages starting at $4,550
Extra vertical: $139 per 3,280 feet
Tenure size: 270,000 acres

If it’s an intimate setting you’re after, Eagle Pass is one place to keep your eye on. Skiing in groups of four, with a maximum of 12 people staying at the lodge at any one time, you and the other 11 guests will have the entire 270,000 acres all to yourself. The lodge is located in the middle of the operation’s tenure, right where the heli picks you up for your first run of the day. You can expect to ride a variety of alpine bowls, glaciers, chutes, and some nicely spaced tree runs. Offering three to seven-day packages, Eagle Pass is confident in their vertical guarantees.

Mica Heli Guides
Phone: 1-877-837-6191
Web: micaheli.com
Location: Revelstoke, BC (office), Mica Creek, BC (lodge)
Season: December-April
Price range: Packages starting at $5,000
Extra vertical: $125 per 3,280 feet
Tenure size: 1,000,000 acres

Mica Heli Guides is a heli operation partnered with Island Lake Lodge and Powder Cowboy Catskiing. With a max of 16 guests staying at their backcountry lodge, which is only accessible by helicopter, Mica is sure to please. Their terrain offers abundant and impressive pillow runs, which receive 20 metres of Rockies’ powder yearly, steep tree-skiing, big alpine peaks, spines and bowls. The lodge itself features double-occupancy rooms, gourmet food, wireless Internet, and satellite TV. Mostly drawing in 30- to 60-year-olds who seek an exclusive heli experience, Mica’s confident they’ll guide you through an amazing trip.

Purcell Helicopter Skiing Ltd.
Phone: 1-877-435-4754
Web: purcellhelicopterskiing.com
Location: Golden, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $689 per day
Extra vertical: $80 per extra run
Tenure size: 494,000 acres

In business for over 35 years, Purcell has got it locked down in the heli department. Offering daily heli packages, you can anticipate shredding a variety of terrain on over 250 runs in their tenure. Set among the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges, the daylodge is located just a few minutes east of Golden, and provides a spot for you to meet your group and enjoy the friendly hospitality. If your planning to go to Golden and do some shredding at Kicking Horse, a day of heliskiing with Purcell offers a perfect opportunity to take your trip’s gear up a notch.

RK Heliski
Phone: 1-800-661-6060
Web: rkheliski.com
Location: Panorama, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $690 per day
Extra vertical: $80 per extra run
Tenure size: 370,000 acres

Established in 1970, RK is 38 years strong and serves a wide range of abilities. Offering daily heli packages, guests can spend a day at the Panorama Resort and kick it the next day in a heli. By grouping guests together based on ability, from intermediate to expert, you’re able to ride in a comfortable atmosphere. The daylodge seats 180 in the family dining room, and features a teepee, gift boutique, and complimentary resort shuttle. The terrain stretches 1,500 km2 and has over 120 landings and 900 runs. RK also has women-specific heliskiing, perfect for a group of backcountry-loving beauties.

Selkirk Tangiers Helicopter Skiing
Phone: 1-800-663-7080
Info: selkirk-tangiers.com
Location: Revelstoke, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $750 per day
Extra vertical: $91.95 per 1000 vertical metres.
Tenure size: 500,000 acres

If you’re planning on hitting up the Revelstoke Mountain Resort this year and want to try heliskiing, Selkirk Tangiers is the perfect place to do so. Now part of RMR, you can ski at the resort one day and be in a heli the next, which is great if not everyone in your group is keen to go. With a vast tenure that spans the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges, Selkirk Tangiers offers a wealth of intermediate to advanced terrain. It’s also where you can expect to shred high-alpine bowls, glaciers, and sub-alpine gladed tree-skiing. With day and multi-day packages available, Selkirk will accept reservations up to one year in advance.

Snowwater Heli Skiing
Phone: 1-866-722-7669
Web: snowwater.com
Location: West Kootenays, BC
Season: December-April
Price range: Starting at $2,550
Extra vertical: $90 per extra run
Tenure size: 150,000 acres

Offering up an intimate setting with some serious shralping, Snowwater is open to only 12 guests at a time—perfect for you and a group of friends. And having a backup snowcat guarantees you ride every day. With a large timbre-frame lodge that features double-occupancy rooms, an outdoor hot tub, and five-star food, you can rest your head very comfortably after a hard day of shredding. Packages vary from two to seven days, and include a great combo package that allows you to heliski, cat ski, and spend a day at the Red Mountain Resort to warm up those legs.

Stellar Heli Skiing
Phone: (250) 366-0067
Web: stellarheliskiing.com
Location: Meadow Creek, BC
Season: December-May
Price range: Starting at $1,290
Extra vertical: $95 per extra run
Tenure size: 79,000 acres

With skiing on two mountain ranges, the Selkirks and the Purcells, Stellar offers packages that can be customized to suit your needs. Everything from a private home with a personal chef to the local Victoria hotel and pub can be part of your individualized package. The tenure encompasses several small glaciers, high-alpine terrain, tree-skiing, and has a large portion that has not yet been explored, resulting in plenty of first descents that are always fun to brag about. It’s recommended that you book before November to ensure a spot.