Heli-Skiing and Heli-boarding in France
Heli-skiing was banned on Mont Blanc by the French President Valerie Giscard after he skied it by helicopter. He appreciated the argument that had been put towards him for the ban that Heli-skiing disturbs the environment and causes a great deal of noise in relation to the number of people who can benefit from this activity. For these same reasons the 1st Mitterand government generalised this to the whole of France. Helicopters are now only allowed to be used in France for work, rescue or transport NOT Heli-skiing or boarding.
Skiers and Boarders staying in France wishing to take part in Heli-Skiing have to travel to Switzerland or Italy in order to do so. Whitetracks can organise helicopter transport from most ski resorts, towns and cities in the French Alps. If there is not a heli-pad in your chosen resort we can organise a pick up from the nearest heli-pad.
Heli-Skiing and Heli-Boarding Overview
The UIAGM, also known as the IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations), is the body representing professional mountain guiding associations across the world. With its rigorous training and assessment procedures, the UIAGM is your guarantee of the highest professional standards and safety in the mountains.
Heli Skiing or Heli Boarding is the ultimate experience for every serious skier and snowboarder. Heli Skiing / Boarding does not have to be restricted to just experienced snow users, with the recent introduction of fat skis, improved technology and equipment you don't have to be the hardcore, die-hard dedicated Snow sport enthusiast to enjoy effortless powder turns through untracked fresh snow that can last for miles over thousands of metres of vertical drop.
You do not need to book an entire week with a specialist tour operator not knowing what the weather or snow conditions will be. You can simply make a day trip with a helicopter, Accompanied by an experienced mountain guide, who will lead you through Glaciers and Canyons for an unforgettable experience.
Heli-Skiing operates everyday (weather permitting) from December to May. We can cater for small groups of skiers and Snowboarders. We are dedicated to the highest levels of quality, professionalism and customer care.
Snow conditions will vary, with powder predominant from early December to the end of February and spring snow from mid-March. Helicopter skiing can involve certain hazards including avalanches, crevasses and sudden weather changes. Professional mountain guides manage these hazards very effectively. Whitetracks only use UIAGM certified Mountain Guides – This qualification is the highest internationally recognised qualification for mountain and ski guiding.
The Ultimate Experience for every serious skier and snowboarder. From Italy or Switzerland you and small group of your friends will be flown by helicopter and dropped at the top of a secluded mountain with a guide - just you, your friends and a deserted mountain.
Heli-Skiing Itinerary
Each Heli Skiing trip differs, but as a general guide:
A One-drop option will generally take up a ½ day and could be anything up to a 3500 metre vertical descent. Any one run could last from an hour up to two and a half hours (dependant on ability).
For those whose legs are up to it, multi drop days are also possible.
Skill level required
Heliskiing requires of course a good physical fitness and a reasonable level of skiing to make the most of the day. All trips are made with a fully qualified high mountain guide who will choose the routes adapted to your level with safety being paramount at all times.
In order to participate in a Heli drop you will need to be of a high intermediate level. A good indicator for this level is about 6 weeks on snow with good off piste experience as well.
This above information is given on the understanding that it is used as a guidance note only. Individual skill levels can vary in accordance with time on snow and your 6 weeks experience still may not come up to the base skill level.
Equipment
| Wind & waterproof jacket & trousers | Thick gloves | |
| Warm hat | Sun hat | Fleece layers |
| Thin gloves | Downhill boots & skis | Poles |
| Harness | Sun glasses | Goggles |
| 30L rucksack | Water bottle | Sun block |
| Shovel* | Probe* | Avalanche transceiver* |
* Should be provided by the guide
Best Period
10th January until the 1st of May
