Frequently Asked Questions
Is heliskiing in BC safe for first-timers?
Heliskiing with a professional operator like RK Heliski is significantly safer than skiing in-bounds terrain without avalanche management. All RK Heliski guides hold ACMG (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides) certification, carry full avalanche rescue equipment, and conduct daily snowpack assessments before any group departs. Guests also receive a full avalanche safety briefing and are equipped with avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels. RK Heliski has operated safely in the Purcell Mountains for over 40 years. The most important requirement for first-timers is being a confident, in-control intermediate to advanced skier or snowboarder — not necessarily an expert.
What skiing ability do I need for heliskiing at RK Heliski?
RK Heliski is best suited for confident intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders. You do not need to be an expert, but you should be comfortable skiing groomed blues and blacks, and be able to maintain control in variable snow conditions. Heliskiing terrain is ungroomed — you may encounter variable powder depths, tracked snow, and natural obstacles. If you can ski a challenging run at a resort without stopping, you are likely ready for your first heliskiing experience.
What is the vertical foot guarantee at RK Heliski?
RK Heliski offers a vertical foot guarantee on multi-day packages, ensuring guests achieve a minimum amount of vertical descent during their stay. If weather or conditions prevent the guaranteed vertical from being reached, RK Heliski provides credits toward a return visit. The specific vertical guarantee varies by package — contact the reservations team for current package terms. This guarantee reflects RK Heliski's confidence in the Purcell Mountains' consistent snowpack and flyable weather windows.
What is included in a RK Heliski package?
RK Heliski packages typically include helicopter transportation, ACMG-certified guide service, avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel), a vertical foot guarantee (multi-day packages), and lodging and meals depending on the package selected. Single-day packages do not include lodging. Multi-day packages often include accommodation at or near the base in Invermere, BC. Ski and snowboard rentals are available through local partner shops. Specific inclusions vary by package — the reservations team can walk you through exactly what is covered
What is the best time of year to go heliskiing in the Purcell Mountains?
The RK Heliski season typically runs from December through April, with the prime powder window falling between January and March. February and March often deliver the deepest, driest snowpack in the Purcell Mountains, with longer daylight hours than mid-winter. Early December can offer exceptional early-season powder, while April provides spring skiing with more stable weather windows. Book early — peak weeks sell out months in advance.
Where is RK Heliski located and how do I get there?
RK Heliski is based in Invermere, British Columbia, Canada, in the Columbia Valley at the foot of the Purcell Mountains. The nearest major airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC), approximately 3 hours by road. Cranbrook Airport (YXC) is the closest regional airport, roughly 90 minutes from Invermere. Shuttle services from Calgary are available, and the drive through the Rockies is spectacular in its own right. RK Heliski can connect guests with transport and lodging recommendations when booking
How does heliskiing differ from cat skiing?
Heliskiing uses a helicopter to access backcountry terrain, allowing guests to reach remote peaks, high alpine bowls, and runs that are completely inaccessible by snowcat or chairlift. The result is more terrain variety, higher elevations, and the ability to move quickly to untracked snow across a much larger area. Cat skiing uses a snowcat vehicle to access terrain adjacent to a lodge, offering lower cost and a more relaxed pace but significantly less terrain flexibility. RK Heliski's helicopter operations access over 500,000 acres of permitted terrain — a scale that cat skiing cannot match.
What physical fitness level is required for heliskiing?
Heliskiing is physically demanding — guests ski multiple long runs per day at elevation with no lifts, chairlifts, or grooming to assist recovery. A reasonable base fitness level is recommended: you should be comfortable skiing 4-6 hours a day for consecutive days without significant fatigue. Core and leg strength are particularly beneficial. If you ski regularly throughout the winter season, you are likely fit enough. RK Heliski guides set a pace appropriate for each group — the experience is designed to be challenging and exhilarating, not exhausting
What is the cancellation policy for heliskiing at RK Heliski?
RK Heliski's cancellation and refund policy varies by package and booking date. Weather cancellations are handled through vertical guarantees and credit systems rather than refunds — if the helicopter cannot fly due to unsafe conditions, your vertical credit is preserved. Guest-initiated cancellations are subject to the terms outlined at booking. Given the high demand for peak weeks and the costs involved in operations, early booking and travel insurance are strongly recommended.
What gear should I bring for heliskiing?
RK Heliski provides avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels — do not bring your own transceiver unless it is a compatible digital model approved by the guide team. Guests should bring: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, a waterproof and breathable ski shell jacket and pants, helmet (strongly recommended), goggles, gloves or mittens (bring two pairs), neck gaiter or balaclava, and ski boots. Fat powder skis or a powder board are ideal — local rental shops near Invermere carry appropriate gear. Leave anything you don't need for skiing in the lodge — helicopter weight limits apply.
