Heli-hiking in Canada isn’t just for fitness fanatics and expert hikers. This incredible adventure allows anyone to explore Canada’s most beautiful mountains from a unique perspective. All you need is a decent pair of boots, a sense of adventure, and a helicopter ride to the stunning peaks.
My Heli-Hiking Experience:
I hadn’t hiked since my kids were young when we explored the trails of Algonquin Park together. That was a long time ago, and I wore sneakers, not hardcore hiking boots. So, I felt apprehensive when I received an invitation to experience heli-hiking with Canadian Mountain Holidays (CMH). Would I have the stamina to keep up? Would I suffer from altitude sickness? The allure of helicoptering high above the mountains and exploring Canada’s rich and varied wilderness trumped my concerns.
Arrival and Welcome Dinner:
I flew into Calgary with Air Canada and took a bus to Banff, where they welcomed us with a dinner at the Maple Leaf Restaurant on the main street. We all stayed at the Moose Lodge overnight and transferred the following morning to the CMH helicopter pick-up point, about an hour from Banff.
Helicopter Ride to Bugaboos Lodge:
The helicopter then flew us in groups of about ten to the Bugaboos Lodge, one of several lodges owned by CMH. The views from the helicopter were majestic. I was still nervous, but in awe—this was the true essence of heli-hiking in Canada.
Lodgings:
This fly-in, log-hewn backcountry lodge with just 32 rooms is at the base of Bugaboo Glacier. My room was cozy with a spectacular view of the Bugaboo Spires. Once we settled in, we were taken to the well-stocked equipment room downstairs to get fitted with hiking boots, jackets, rain pants, and packs. Walking poles were also provided. You could arrive at the Lodge with nothing but a t-shirt and a fleece and borrow everything you need for your stay—making heli-hiking in Canada accessible for everyone.
Lodge Life:
Après hiking in the lodge reminded me of my stays at African safari lodges. Everyone gathered around the bar or on the deck to exchange stories of their adventures in the helicopters and on various hikes. All meals were served family-style at long tables. The lodge staff and guides sat among us, chatting and assisting with the food service. The food was healthy, light, and varied.
In addition to the upper dining and lounge areas, there was a library rich in the history of CMH heli-hiking and skiing, as well as an exercise room, spa facilities, a rooftop hot tub, and a large presentation space. Outside, there was a magical little pond with canoes and an inviting fire pit. This lodge experience added to the unforgettable adventure of heli-hiking in Canada.
The Hike:
Following a breakfast of eggs and all the trimmings (with plenty of light and healthy options, too), we loaded our backpacks with food, snacks, and water, received a safety briefing, and prepared to set off on our first heli-adventure!
Starting the Hike
After a 15-minute ride into the mountains, the helicopter dropped us off, and we began a slow, steady hike uphill. Most of the guests were young and fit, but the guides assessed our fitness levels and formed hiking groups accordingly. They challenged the daredevils and seasoned hikers while ensuring novices like me felt comfortable and safe.
Our guide talked about the history, geology, plant life, and animals of the region while offering valuable hiking tips. Never walk a straight line up; always traverse from side to side; rest on your forefoot and lock your back leg every time; breathe out more than you breathe in; drink lots of water to avoid dehydration at the various elevations! The weather shifts dramatically from one hour to the next. Layer up. After four hours of hiking, our helicopter couldn’t land due to poor visibility, so we were forced to hike an additional hour to the next pick-up point. Such unpredictability is part of the thrill of heli-hiking in Canada!
Reflections:
I am not an avid hiker, and I likely never will be. But the most amazing thing about this trip was that I got to experience heights and sights I would never otherwise have seen.
Heli-hiking in Canada took me out of my comfort zone and challenged me in new ways. The thrill I felt as the helicopter landed just feet away from our group at the top of mountains and glaciers is beyond words. Words cannot do justice to the natural beauty and wonder around us. There was nothing manicured about our trek; in most cases, there was no path. But the guides prepared us and coached us through. Yes, a sense of adventure is a must when you embark on heli-hiking in Canada.