Mike Wiegele – one of the most modern heli-skiing areas in the world. Blue River, a small, dreamy village nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, is just over two hours by car from Kamloops, BC or Jasper, AB. Here, guests can spend an unforgettable holiday in rustic, luxurious, andMike Wiegele – one of the most modern heli-skiing areas in the world. Blue River, a small, dreamy village nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, is just over two hours by car from Kamloops, BC or Jasper, AB. Here, guests can spend an unforgettable holiday in rustic, luxurious, and very comfortably equipped log cabins. Before taking to the air, guests receive a detailed introduction to the procedures and are familiarized with all safety precautions. A film is shown, and the proper use of avalanche transceivers is explained. The helicopters are serviced every morning before departure. The flight and maintenance area is located about 3 km from the lodge. There is also a runway for small aircraft nearby. A-Star helicopters are used for normal groups, accommodating 1 pilot, 1 guide, and 4 passengers; for larger groups, the twin-engine 212 Bell helicopters are used, which can carry 10 passengers, 2 guides, and 1 pilot.
The helicopters take off directly from the log cabins around 8:30 am and, depending on weather and snow conditions, head to the Cariboos and Monashees Mountains. On a typical day, you fly back up the mountain about 10-15 times and always ski down untouched powder slopes. Safety is a top priority at Mike Wiegele, so before the flight, you receive precise instructions, an explanation of the helicopters, and training with the avalanche transceiver. You are also made aware of specific dangers on site, such as tree holes and mushrooms (snow pillows). The heli-ski guide demonstrates how deep the snow is around the fir trees and how far you can sink in. The avalanche situation is monitored closely every day, and only truly safe slopes are chosen. The heli-ski guides keep detailed records of the avalanche situation, as shown on a board in the lodge.
Around 1 pm, a rustic lunch is enjoyed in the stunning mountain scenery. There are sandwiches, soup, tea, and drinks. Refreshed, the helicopter takes you back up the mountain. Around 4:30 pm, the helicopters gradually return to the lodge. Now you have time to prepare for dinner, visit the fitness studio, or relax in the whirlpool. In the evening, a first-class dinner is served, starting with an appetizer buffet, soup, and main course. Afterwards, dessert and a cozy evening at the bar or by the open fireplace in the lodge await.
The next morning, it’s back to the freshly snow-covered mountains—a truly unforgettable experience.