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Heli Skiing Washington

Heli Skiing WashingtonAs skiing’s popularity has exploded in recent decades, many of the premier North American destinations have become overrun. With droves of people flocking to places like British Columbia, Tahoe, and Colorado, where can an adventure skier find some backcountry solitude? The answer is: Heli skiing Washington State.

Washington is in an interesting geological location. Towards the Western shore, one finds the Pacific Ocean, but only a couple hundred miles inland the Cascade Range begins. And on the east side, a somewhat dryer climate prevails, which helps for lighter snow. This range is home to some fantastic resorts and backcountry skiing, much of it undiscovered by the larger skiing community.

This provides the perfect off-the-radar location to get your feet wet in the world of heliskiing. Here’s everything you need to know about heli skiing Washington.

Heli Skiing Operators in Washington

 

Similar to other lesser-known regions, Washington only has one current heliskiing operator. North Cascade Heli is a company that’s based out of Mazama, WA which focusses on small-group heli skiing. They’re a bit out there - pretty remote...and are only accessible from the eastern side of Washington during the winter. And that's kinda the point, right?

North Cascade offers a variety of single-day, two-day, and three-day trips. They guarantee up to 7 runs per day, and you’ll never share the helicopter with more than 3 other skiers, making it the perfect semi-private experience. Their guides know the North Cascade Mountains, and call them the "The American Alps." With an intimate knowledge of this special range, they are guaranteed to get you to “the goods.”

World-Class Travel Ideas!

If you're headed to the Cascade range from the east side, in the winter, you can explore portions of the "Cascade Loop" and find some great snow shoeing or ski touring. Be a winter recreation fanatic!

Facts & FAQ

Weather, Snowfall, and Terrain in Washington

Washington State has consistently been a treasure trove for deep powder. Mt. Baker Ski Area typically receives the most annual snowfall out of any other resort in the lower 48 states. The unique coastal storm patterns get trapped in the Cascade Range and unleash a snowy fury. Because of this, you can expect an exceptional snowpack at all times of the season when heliskiing Washington. However, it’s worth noting that lower elevations generally receive quite a bit of rain.

Washington is dotted by a healthy mixture of terrain features including:

  • High Peaks Perfect for Steep Descents
  • Glaciers That Harbor Intricate Chutes, Spines, and Couloirs 
  • Volcanoes That Feature Wide Open Bowls and Gentle Cruisers
  • Glades for Lengthy, Densely Packed Tree Runs

All of this combines to create a comprehensive skiing experience that’s as challenging as it is beautiful. While there is certainly gentle terrain available in open bowls, much of the landscape will consist of technical, complicated routes. With Washington’s only operator, you’ll have access to six different regions spanning 300,000+ acres in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Book a Heli Skiing to Washington Today!

 

Even though Washington State may not be the first thought when it comes to extreme heliskiing, the Cascade Mountains can provide some of the highest quality experiences around. 

In very few locations will you find terrain that’s more barren of other skiers, providing a trip that’s equally as rejuvenating as it is adrenalizing. The ridiculous snowfall and complex terrain features create a heli skiing paradise inside the states that has yet to be discovered by most of the population, making this region the premier spot for those seeking a truly wild time.

 

Peter Brady

BRADY

5/9/23
Brady is an avid skiing & backcountry enthusiast, aging "big wave" surfer and is totally addicted to heliskiing!
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