RK Heliski

As a single day heliskiing operator, RK Heliskiing does not have its own lodge with accommodations. You’ll have to take on this responsibility when planning your trip. Luckily, Lake Louise, Banff, and Panorama Resort are all popular tourist attractions, so finding a place to stay will not be difficult whatsoever. Some of the most popular places that people stay include:

• Panorama: 1000 Peaks Lodge, Aurora Townhomes, and the Panorama Springs Lodge
• Banff: Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa, Banff Park Lodge, and Banff Springs Hotel
• Lake Louise: Chateau Lake House and the Post Hotel and Spa

On the mountain, RK Heliskiing provides a few amenities you can take advantage of. A hot breakfast is provided every morning before you board the helicopter, as well as a packed lunch in the field. This lunch consists of sandwiches, chocolates, fruit, and cookies, and you’ll be able to enjoy a scenic overlook at the base of the runs.

Most RK Heliski reviews indicate that the operator is incredibly ability-level dependent. All visiting skiers are required to honestly assess their ability levels so that they can be grouped accordingly. In addition, the terrain you experience will vary based on your group’s overall ability level. More intermediate skiers will be brought to lower-angle open bowls, whereas expert skiers will be brought to the more challenging descents. 

RK Heliskiing rates ability levels into three main categories: intermediate, advanced, and expert. Intermediate skiers need to have good physical fitness, and the ability to ski a black diamond run at a major North American resort. This doesn’t mean they need to be able to do it perfectly, but the ability to stop at a moment’s notice and avoid all obstacles is a requirement. Advanced-level skiers are capable of taking on steeper runs, shorter turning radiuses, and fewer rest breaks. Their form may not be flawless, but they’re still able to conquer most terrain. Expert-level skiers can handle any type of terrain, at any speed, and in any type of snow. 

No matter your ability level, RK Heliski always searches for the best snow on any given day. Their first priority is avalanche avoidance, complemented by the avalanche gear and transceivers they equip every guest with.

As mentioned, RK Heliskiing prioritizes single-day excursions. However, this doesn’t mean that they’re lacking in their package options. Whether you just want a taste of heliskiing, or you’re looking to maximize daylight hours, they have something catered towards your requests. 

As a single-day operator, RK does not offer down-day activities like cat skiing. Refunds are applicable in case your trip gets canceled due to weather, but backup activities are the skier’s responsibility. In addition, RK Heliskiing goes by the run, not vertical. Additional runs are always available for purchase.

The packages offered by RK Heliskiing include:

• 3 Run and 5 Run Powder Adventure: Best geared towards intermediate skiers and first-time heliskiers, the 3-run package is for those that just want to dip their toes into the backcountry. The 5-run package can be enjoyed by any ability level, but a longer day should be expected. This package is serviced by a Bell 212 with up to 10 skiers per chopper.
• Bell 212 Semi-Private: Includes 5 runs per day, with a Bell 212 helicopter reserved just for the group – no sharing. This means that you and up to nine other skiers can enjoy heliskiing without being interrupted or slowed down by other groups.
• A-Star Semi-Private: Like the Bell 212 private at 5 runs per day, this package includes exclusive group use of the helicopter, but on a smaller scale. The A-Star can accommodate up to 4 skiers.
• A-Star and Bell 212 Private Platinum: Pure exclusivity. You and your self-appointed group of friends will enjoy either helicopter completely to yourself. 1.5 hours of flight time is included, allowing you to maximize the day. The A-Star can fly with 4 skiers, and the Bell 212 can fly with as many as 10.