Alpine Heliski

As a day operator, Alpine does not provide accommodations. However, they do have a variety of recommendations within Queenstown. Queenstown has an extensive list of options for all types of travelers. From hostel-style lodging to hotels and full-on retreats, there’s something for everybody. Some of the most popular choices include:

• LQ Queenstown Hotel
• Nugget Point Resort and Spa
• Nomads Queenstown

A main draw of this operator is that they have heliskiing options available to intermediate skiers. As long as you can comfortably ski a blue run at a ski resort, you’ll do just fine in their backcountry. Alpine Heliski Queenstown offers over 400 defined ski runs across 8 different mountain ranges, with thousands of hectares of terrain.

While small compared to other international operations, Alpine does have the largest ski area in the Queenstown alpine region. Most runs are between 600-700 vertical meters (around 2,000 feet) and consist of open powdery bowls and challenging chutes.

Alpine is hands down the most affordable operator in the game. They offer 100% refunds on any trip canceled within 24 hours, which is incredibly unique. Most operators require a large upfront, non-refundable deposit, and many times life simply gets in the way. In addition to this refund policy, Alpine provides numerous specials throughout the early season. A slow-paced full day of heliskiing can be achieved for less than $1,000. 

This operator keeps it small and never flies more than four A-Star B3 helicopters at a time. Additionally, they don’t offer backup activities like cat-skiing, but full refunds and rescheduling are in place for down days. 

Your package options include 4, 6, or 7 runs and can be broken down into the following categories, based on skillset:

• Heli 1: Designed for the intermediate skier, this is best for people that ski less than 10 days per season and most often enjoy blue runs.
• Heli 2: A slight step up, heli 2 is designed for those that ski up to 20 days a year and have small amounts of powder experience.
• Heli 3: Ideal for the skier that enjoys black diamonds and often skis off-piste.
• Heli 4: For the experts. This group mainly skis off-piste, double black diamonds, and has 40+ days on snow each year.

Overall, Alpine Heli Skiing is the perfect operator for those valuing affordability, easy arrival, and an above-average skiing experience. While they may not offer all the glitz and glam of an all-inclusive, multi-day retreat, they’re sure to give you one of the most memorable skiing moments of your life.