What is it?
Heliskiing consists of ascending to high peaks with a Helicopter (otherwise it would not be possible to access these peaks), where it will leave you so that you can begin the descent by a shovel of virgin snow at full speed. Awesome! In other words, it consists of a "freeride" off-piste.
Its history dates back more than 40 years in Canada, a reference country for this sport, and has spread throughout the world in countries such as Switzerland, Iceland, Chile and New Zealand. Like any high mountain sport, this modality naturally entails some risk (risk of avalanches, impassable shovels) but the guides who will accompany you will ensure your safety and that of the group at all times. It can be considered a "safe" sport.
Not all descents are considered high level, you can also descend if you have a medium-high level through more "simpler" areas
Where can it be practiced in Spain?
Those who know this sport think that only great fortunes can practice it. ERROR! Of course, we warn that it is not a cheap activity but it is really worth it so if you have a good level of skiing, take a look at where you can practice it in our country.
In the Pyrenees, in the heart of the Aran Valley, one of the companies is Pyrinees Heliskiwhich offers different packages in Baqueira to be able to make the descents in a group of friends, having a helicopter to make the descents you want. or in a group made up of different fans who do not know each other to do two descents. Depending on the package selected, the price will vary of course.
Another area is Panticosa and Formigal or also the area of Mesella in Gerona where you can also practice heliskiing .
It is important to know that you will always be accompanied by a guide experienced who will ensure the safety of the skiers and indicate the area or areas to make the descent.
Things to keep in mind
- There is irrigation. We have already discussed it previously. The risk exists as long as the safety rules established by the instructor are not respected. HE will ensure the safety of all members to avoid the risk of avalanches or accidents.
- You don't have to jump from the helicopter. Many think that once at the summit the skier jumps with his skis from the helicopter. That is totally false since the helicopter lands on the summit so that its passengers can get off on solid ground
- If you try it, you will repeat. The sensation of skiing off-piste in a virgin white blanket is an experience that you have to try at least once in your life. But we repeat loud and clear IF YOU TRY IT, YOU WILL REPEAT!
