A day in the life…
A Day in the Life of a Heliskier at Great Bear Heliskiing
Imagine waking up in a secluded lodge set deep within the pristine wilderness of British Columbia, the snow-blanketed peaks of the Coast Mountains surrounding you like a dreamscape. The air is crisp, the sky hints at adventure, and the thrill of untouched powder beckons. This is heli-skiing with Great Bear Heliskiing, where every day unfolds as an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, adrenaline, and world-class hospitality.
At Great Bear Heliskiing, the mountains are your playground, and every detail is designed to deliver a ski vacation like no other. This family-run business has a legacy of hosting guests for over 60 years, and while skiing is a newer chapter in their story, the warmth and care they bring to each visitor's experience have been perfected over generations. Guests don’t just feel welcome—they feel like family.
But what sets Great Bear apart isn’t just the personal touch; it’s the sheer grandeur of the experience. Their tenure spans an awe-inspiring 6,225 square kilometers—nearly 190 times the size of Whistler Blackcomb. The terrain is as varied as it is vast, offering everything from steep, technical descents to serene, rolling powder fields and perfectly spaced tree runs. Located on the climatic divide between the coastal and inland mountain ranges, this unique positioning ensures not just ample snowfall but also the dry, light powder skiers dream of.
This blog will take you through a typical day at Great Bear Heliskiing, from the quiet moments of the morning to the thrill of untouched slopes, culminating in the cozy luxury of their lodge. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to experience the pinnacle of heli-skiing, this is your chance to find out.
Morning Routine
The day at Great Bear Heliskiing begins not with the blaring sound of an alarm but with the gentle knock of opportunity. At 7:30 AM, guests are awakened with a freshly brewed cup of coffee delivered right to their room—a thoughtful start to an unforgettable day. Breakfast, served at 8:00 AM, is a feast for both the palate and the senses. Freshly baked goods, seasonal fruits, and hearty dishes like eggs benedict or steak and eggs fuel skiers for the adventures ahead, complemented by tea, juice, or a second cup of rich coffee.
By 9:00 AM, the buzz of excitement becomes tangible as the first helicopters lift off. But before skis hit the snow, safety takes center stage. Each morning, guests gather for a briefing led by expert guides. Topics range from weather and snow conditions to avalanche awareness and the day’s skiing plan. Safety is a cornerstone of Great Bear’s operations, ensuring that everyone, from first-timers to seasoned powder hounds, feels confident and prepared.
Then comes the moment many guests have been anticipating: their first helicopter ride. The thrill of takeoff, the breathtaking views of endless peaks, and the growing anticipation of untouched powder combine to create an experience like no other. Even guests who are nervous flyers find themselves captivated by the professionalism and skill of the pilots, who ensure that every ride is as smooth as it is exhilarating.
As the helicopter sets down on a remote mountaintop, the adventure truly begins. Guests step out into a world of pure white wilderness, ready to carve their way through some of the best snow on the planet. And this is only the start of the day.
The Skiing Experience
At Great Bear Heliskiing, the terrain is a skier’s paradise—diverse, expansive, and untouched. A typical day offers 8 to 14 thrilling runs, with vertical drops ranging from 500 to 1,800 meters. On an average day, guests conquer between 6,000 and 8,000 vertical meters, experiencing a variety of landscapes that keep every run fresh and exciting.
The first landing is an exhilarating introduction to the day’s adventure. After the helicopter touches down, guides carefully orchestrate every step, from unloading skis to ensuring guests are properly equipped with avalanche packs and safety gear. Before the group heads down, the guide assesses the snow and terrain, often performing a “ski cut” to ensure conditions are optimal. Guests are briefed on their descent, and then it’s time to ski.
Great Bear’s tenure is remarkable not just for its size but for its variety. Picture yourself gliding down open bowls, carving through perfectly spaced tree runs, or navigating glacial descents that feel like they belong in a dream. The guides tailor each experience to the group’s skill level, ensuring everyone—from beginners to seasoned skiers—has the time of their lives.
And then there’s the snow: light, dry powder that clings to the mountain, offering that perfect floaty sensation with every turn. The location of Great Bear’s terrain, perched between the coastal and inland ranges, is key. Here, the abundant snowfall of the coast meets the cooler temperatures of the interior, creating some of the most sought-after skiing conditions in the world.
It’s not just the skiing that captivates; the scenery is unforgettable. Towering peaks, sprawling valleys, and pristine forests stretch as far as the eye can see. Wildlife sightings add a touch of magic, from the occasional ermine darting across the snow to Whiskey Jacks playfully circling overhead. Every run feels like an escape into a serene and untouched world.
Breaks and Meals on the Mountain
While the focus is on the skiing, Great Bear Heliskiing ensures guests are well-fed and recharged throughout the day. Lunch breaks are an opportunity to refuel, share stories, and take in the awe-inspiring surroundings. Guides carefully select scenic and sheltered spots for the midday pause, where guests can relax and enjoy a gourmet mountain meal.
Lunch is no ordinary affair. Each skier receives a hot entrée, such as hearty soup or curry, alongside an assortment of charcuterie, cheese, and crackers. Sweet treats, dried fruit, and candy bars add a boost of energy, while warm beverages like tea and coffee provide comfort on the mountain. The food is designed not only to satisfy but also to enhance the overall experience—luxurious yet practical, much like the skiing itself.
Breaks between runs are flexible, tailored to each group’s preferences. Some guests are eager to keep pushing, chasing fresh tracks until their legs are burning. Others may opt to pause, soaking in the silence and grandeur of their surroundings. For those who need it, there’s always the option to finish the day early and catch a ride back to the lodge on a refueling helicopter.
Even these moments of rest offer something special. The chance to chat with fellow skiers, marvel at the beauty of the mountains, or simply take a breath in the crisp alpine air adds to the magic of the day. It’s these little details that make every moment at Great Bear Heliskiing extraordinary, whether you’re carving a perfect line or sharing a laugh over lunch.
The Helicopter Experience
For many guests, the helicopter experience at Great Bear Heliskiing is just as thrilling as the skiing itself. From the moment the rotor blades spin into action, anticipation fills the air. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, there’s an undeniable sense of exhilaration as the helicopter lifts off, carrying you to a remote mountain peak few others have ever reached.
The flights are relatively short—often just a minute or two between runs—but they provide just enough time to catch your breath, warm up, and marvel at the breathtaking views below. Snow-capped peaks, endless forests, and glistening glaciers stretch out in all directions. Every ride is a reminder of the vastness of Great Bear’s 6,225-square-kilometer tenure.
Sharing the helicopter with a small group of like-minded adventurers adds to the camaraderie. The pilots, among the best in the business, are not only skilled but also personable. They might share stories of their flying adventures around the globe or point out unique landmarks along the way. Their calm demeanor ensures everyone feels safe, even those who are a bit nervous about flying.
Safety is paramount, and each flight is meticulously choreographed to ensure a smooth experience. Guests are briefed on helicopter safety and taught how to enter, exit, and handle equipment. By the time you take your first flight, you’ll feel like a pro. Whether soaring over untouched wilderness or landing on a pristine ridge, the helicopter rides at Great Bear Heliskiing are unforgettable highlights of the adventure.
Après-Ski and Evening Activities
After an adrenaline-filled day carving through powder, the return to the lodge is a welcome retreat. As the helicopter touches down, a sense of satisfaction and tired exhilaration fills the air. Guests are greeted with a daily signature cocktail and warm après-ski snacks—a delightful transition from the slopes to relaxation.
The lodge itself is a haven of comfort and luxury. Guests can soak tired muscles in the cedar hot tub, unwind in the wood-fired sauna, or indulge in a 60-minute massage from one of the registered massage therapists. For those looking to recharge with a bit more energy, there are plenty of activities to enjoy: a game of laser tag, a hike along nearby trails, or even karaoke for a fun evening with newfound friends.
Dinner at the lodge is another highlight. Guests gather to share stories from the day, forging connections over gourmet cuisine. The meals, prepared with care and creativity, often feature local ingredients and are paired with an excellent selection of wines and cocktails.
The evening atmosphere is as flexible as the skiing itself. Whether you prefer a quiet night under the stars, chatting by the fire, or diving into lodge activities, there’s something for everyone. Some guests choose to relive the day’s best moments with their guides, planning for tomorrow’s adventures, while others simply savor the peaceful ambiance of the remote mountain retreat.
Every aspect of après-ski at Great Bear Heliskiing is designed to complement the day’s adventures. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation, indulgence, and community that ensures guests end their day feeling fulfilled and ready for whatever comes next.
Unforgettable Heli-Skiing
The Robb Report has recognized Great Bear Heli-Skiing as the ultimate luxury adventure. Set in British Columbia’s Central Coast Mountains, our exclusive lodge welcomes just 12 guests at a time, ensuring personalized service and unparalleled experiences. A week with us promises an unforgettable heli-skiing journey. With two A-Star B3 helicopters, gourmet dining, and access to 2,400 square miles of pristine terrain, you’ll carve fresh tracks through endless powder.
