Arctic Heli Skiing Iceland was founded by Jökull Bergmann, Iceland's first UIAGM-IFMGA certified mountain guide, after he had guided heliskiing expeditions for years, primarily in Revelstoke B.C.
Bergmann's sheep farm is said to have been in the family for centuries - all the way back to the Viking settlements in 850AD. His website recounts his family history, portraying Jökull Bergmann as the 31st generation, direct descendant of the first Viking settlers.
JB, as he is known, determined that his farm was far more suitable as a helisking operation, so in 2008, he moved the sheep out and the helicopters in! He was intent on showing the world what magic arctic heli skiing in Iceland was all about.
If you’re going to heliski Iceland, “JB's family owned heli-ranch" is prepared to deliver an exceptional Iceland heliskiing experience.
The Klængshóll | Raven Hill Lodge, located in a pristine valley near Dalvik Iceland, is naturally complimented by a large river running down the center Jokull Bergmann’s family farm. It is a remarkable location for those who seek a remote skiing adventure! The residence and surrounding structures have been re-imagined into an ideal mecca for Iceland heliskiing.
I heard about JB’s operation from an accomplished heli-skier at Selkirk Tangiers in BC, who had skied there three times. It sounded fantastic, and it was! Thank you Vince! Arctic Heliskiing’s cover photos speak volumes about the quest for perfect spring skiing, from majestic peaks…all the way down to the beach…the images that skiers dream about when they fantasize about their trip to heliski Iceland or Greenland.
I am well aware of how to define perfect corn snow. I spent my formative years spring skiing The Sun Bowl at Alpine Meadows in North Tahoe. (That mountain is now conjoined with the former Squaw Valley USA and re-named Palisades Tahoe.)
The Pursuit of Perfect Corn Snow
The classic and sometimes epic corn snow decent at Alpine, often referred to as the “High Traverse” (for the effort required to get to the ridge and then drop over the backside, into the Sun Bowl) would properly light up & set up in the spring as mother nature smiled on her, giving the slope just the right warm kiss.
The resulting melt…then, the long evening freeze, followed by the morning thaw...and repeat would invite devotees into some of the finest GS carving lines through flat, steep, buttery snow crystals…ecstasy on the appropriate spring day, at the correct hour.
My brother Dave and I were imagining a repeat of that same Tahoe experience on our effort to heliski Iceland, hopefully, over and over again through our trip.
Our adventure at Arctic Heli Skiing Iceland, was led by our guide Stephane, who also guides at Selkirk Tangiers, as do others. With an assist by mother nature of the North, the four day trip did not disappoint. Our finest skiing in near perfect corn conditions was enjoyed as we attacked multiple creamy descents, laying down long, perfect carves through untouched, gorgeous valleys from 6:00PM to 10:PM on a Friday night. The weather was warm. The lighting was perfect, and so was the vibe! It was EXOTIC.
Afterwards, back “at the farm” in the lounge, I pulled myself the best tasting celebratory cold beer on tap I had ever had! When I asked JB what his favorite thing was about his operation, he was taken back with a long pause. He said, “Well…I love creating this atmosphere for the people to enjoy.”
He has done a fine job. His staff is playful and professional, and his chefs are impeccable at their craft. GO! Go heliski Iceland. You won’t regret it. And bring your swimsuit…Iceland has some terrific local pools and thermal spas you’re likely to visit!
