Heliskiing facts for kids

Heli-skiing is an exciting way to go downhill skiing or snowboarding far away from regular ski resorts. Instead of using a ski lift to go up the mountain, you get to ride in a helicopter! This means you can reach amazing, untouched areas with fresh, deep snow that most people never get to see.

What is Heli-Skiing?

Heli-skiing is a type of off-trail skiing. This means you ski outside of marked ski slopes. It's all about exploring wild mountains. A helicopter takes skiers and snowboarders high up to a special landing zone on a mountain. From there, they ski down through fresh, powdery snow. It's a thrilling adventure for experienced skiers and snowboarders.

A Quick History of Heli-Skiing

People started using helicopters to reach remote mountain areas for skiing a long time ago. As early as the late 1950s, helicopters were used in places like Alaska and Europe to get to hard-to-reach terrain.

The idea of heli-skiing as a sport that anyone could try began in 1965. A man named Hans Gmoser is known for starting the first commercial heli-skiing trips. He made it possible for more people to experience this unique way of skiing.

How Does Heli-Skiing Work?

When you go heli-skiing, you first meet your guides and get ready. Then, you and a small group get into a helicopter. Your skis, snowboards, and ski poles are usually carried in a special basket on the outside of the helicopter.

The helicopter then flies you high up into the mountains. It lands carefully on a flat spot, which is called a landing zone. Once you are safely off the helicopter, it flies away. Then, you get to ski down the mountain, often through deep, untouched snow. Your guides lead the way, making sure everyone stays safe and has a great time.

Is Heli-Skiing Safe?

Heli-skiing takes place in the backcountry, which means it's outside of controlled ski areas. Because of this, there are some risks, just like with any adventure sport in the wilderness.

Understanding Snow Conditions

The snow on mountains changes a lot. It's affected by the sun, wind, and how warm or cold it is. New snowfalls also change the conditions. This means the snow can be different almost every day. Sometimes, the snow can be unstable, which can lead to dangers like avalanches. An avalanche is when a large amount of snow slides down a mountain. Another risk is falling into a tree well, which is a hidden hole around the base of a tree, especially after heavy snowfall.

Safety Gear and Guides

To make heli-skiing as safe as possible, experienced pilots fly the helicopters. Also, certified guides lead the groups. These guides are experts in mountain safety and know how to find the safest routes.

Skiers and snowboarders also use special safety gear. This includes:

• An avalanche transceiver: A small device that helps rescuers find someone buried in an avalanche.
• Avalanche air-bags: Backpacks that inflate to help a person stay on top of the snow during an avalanche.
• Radios: For communicating with the guides and other group members.

By using experienced professionals and the right safety equipment, the risks of heli-skiing are greatly reduced, making it a safer and more enjoyable adventure.

See also

In Spanish: Heliesquí para niños