Heli Boarding in Canada: What It Is and Why It’s Worth It

Looking to take your snowboarding to the next level? If you’re tired of crowded lift lines and tracked-out runs, heli boarding (also called heli snowboarding or helicopter snowboarding) is the ultimate upgrade. In this guide, we’ll break down what heli boarding is, why Canada is a world-class destination for it, and what to expect on a heli boarding trip to Bella Coola Heli Sports.

What is Heli Boarding?

Heli boarding is off-trail, backcountry snowboarding accessed via a helicopter instead of traditional ski lifts. Riders are flown to remote alpine zones where fresh powder, untouched terrain, and jaw-dropping scenery await. It’s the snowboarder’s answer to heli skiing, an unforgettable ride crafted for those who prefer to slide sideways.

Unlike a resort day, heli boarding is all about freedom. You’ll explore long descents through alpine bowls, steep chutes, and old-growth forests — no chairlifts, no crowds, no compromises. Just you, your board, and the mountain.

Why Go Heli Boarding in Canada?

Canada is a global hub for heli sports, and it’s easy to see why. Vast wilderness, deep snowpacks, and a long winter season combine to create ideal conditions for helicopter-access snowboarding. British Columbia, in particular, offers some of the best heli boarding on the planet — and Bella Coola is one of its crown jewels.

What makes Canada special for heli snowboarding?

• Consistent powder: Dry, light snow that stacks up all season long.
• Diverse terrain: From alpine glaciers to gladed tree runs in coastal rainforest.
• Expert guides: Trained pros who keep you safe while unlocking the best terrain.
• Bucket-list scenery: Canada’s wilderness is vast, rugged, and spectacular.

What to Expect on Your Bella Coola Helicopter Snowboarding Trip

At Bella Coola Heli Sports, heli boarding takes your average day in the mountains and levels it up. Way up. Here’s what makes the experience stand out:

• Small-group exclusivity: We specialize in small-group heli boarding, giving you more freedom and better access to the best terrain.
• Unlimited vertical: At select lodges, you can ride as much as the day allows — no vertical limits.
• World-class terrain: The terrain in Bella Coola is legendary — big alpine bowls, steep lines, playful trees, and deep powder.
• Lodge life: After riding, unwind in luxury lodges nestled deep in the Coast Mountains with gourmet food, spa amenities, and après by the fire.

Where You Can Ride: Our Heli Boarding Destinations

Eagle Lodge

• Ideal for snowboarders looking for fast access to epic terrain and deep snow.
• Located in the Bella Coola Valley with access to steeps, trees, and open alpine runs.

Tweedsmuir Park Lodge

• A relaxed and luxurious setting in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• Home to unlimited vertical programs during select winter periods.

Sand Creek Ranch

• Exclusive private lodge ideal for groups looking to ride together in a secluded backcountry setting.
• Offers a high level of privacy and flexibility with terrain suited to both intermediate and expert riders.

MV Cascadia – Heli-Access Yacht

• The ultimate mobile heli boarding base, offering access to the most remote and pristine terrain in the Coast Range.
• Ride untouched lines by day, then return to a luxury expedition yacht with a private chef, hot tub, and panoramic views of the fjords.
• Ideal for groups looking for a high-end, once-in-a-lifetime experience combining adventure, seclusion, and comfort.

Each destination delivers a unique take on heli boarding, but all promise legendary powder, personalized service, and access to some of the best terrain on Earth.

Tips for Your Heli Boarding Trip

Leave your board at home

We know how attached you are to your setup, but when it comes to heli boarding in Bella Coola, it’s best to travel light. Due to the 23kg (50lb) luggage allowance on the flight from Vancouver to Bella Coola and the risk of damage or delays in transit, we recommend leaving your snowboard at home.

Instead, we provide a curated fleet of industry-leading freeride and powder boards from Jones and Burton, expertly maintained and ready to ride.

What’s provided

We’ve got all the essentials covered, so you can focus on the riding. Your trip includes:

• High-performance powder boards (Jones & Burton)
• Avalanche safety gear: beacon, shovel, probe, radio, and airbag backpack
• Daily board waxing and tuning
• Certified guides and comprehensive safety briefings

What to pack

While we’ve got your gear and safety equipment handled, here’s what you’ll need to bring:

• Snowboard boots (make sure they’re broken in and in good condition)
  Helmet
• Goggles (ideally with interchangeable lenses for changing light conditions)
• Gloves or mitts
• Base layers (synthetic or merino — avoid cotton)
• Mid layers (fleece or lightweight down)
• Outerwear (waterproof and breathable jacket and pants)

For a complete list, check out our Heli Skiing & Boarding Packing List so you’re fully prepared for every condition the Coast Mountains can throw at you.

Skill level

Heli boarding isn’t just for pros, but you should be a strong, confident rider in off-piste terrain. Comfort in powder, variable snow, and tight trees will go a long way in making your experience epic.

Need help assessing your readiness? Check out our Heli Skiing & Boarding Ability Guide to see where you stack up and make sure you’re set up for success.

Ready to Ride?

Heli boarding in Bella Coola is the pinnacle of the snowboarding experience — a perfect mix of thrill, freedom, and luxury. Whether you’re chasing powder, solitude, or the trip of a lifetime, this is where it all comes together.

Book your heli boarding trip now at Bella Coola Heli Sports and ride the lines you’ve always dreamed of.