ELEVATED MAGAZINES
SUN VALLEY HELI SKI - ACCESS TO 750,000 ACRES
In the rugged mountains surrounding Sun Valley, Idaho, Sun Valley Heli Ski has
carved out its place as a leader in high-alpine adventure. As the oldest heli-ski
operator in the United States, the company has spent decades refining the craft
of guiding skiers and snowboarders into some of the most remote and breathtaking
terrain in the country.
The operation boasts the largest heli-ski permit area in the lower 48 states, with access
to over 750,000 acres of pristine backcountry. Its terrain includes rolling ridgelines,
steep alpine bowls, and untracked powder fields, ensuring each day offers a fresh
perspective and new challenges. Skiers are treated to the dual thrill of navigating
untouched snow and taking in the dramatic vistas of the Idaho Rockies from above.
For those seeking a deeper connection to the experience, Sun Valley Heli Ski also
offers access to the Smoky Mountain Lodge, the only remote heli-ski fly-in lodge in
the contiguous United States. Nestled deep in the mountains, the lodge serves as a
basecamp for multi-day excursions. Guests step straight from the lodge to the awaiting
helicopter each morning, maximizing their time in the backcountry. Evenings at the
Smoky Mountain Lodge offer a chance to recharge with gourmet meals, a crackling
fire, and the camaraderie of others sharing the same pursuit.
The operation runs a single A-Star helicopter, known for its precision and agility in
mountainous environments. The pilot, with 15 years at Sun Valley Heli Ski and over
12,000 flight hours, brings an unmatched knowledge of the terrain. His expertise
allows for careful route planning and precise drop-offs, adding another layer of trust
and professionalism.
A typical day with Sun Valley Heli Ski includes six runs, often totaling between 10,000 and 15,000 feet
of vertical descent. Lunch is a hearty packed meal enjoyed at a scenic spot amid the mountains. These
moments of pause offer a chance to take in the landscape, rest your legs, and prepare for the next set of
runs.
Guides tailor the day to the group’s abilities and the conditions, creating an experience that balances
safety with adventure. Guests are equipped with a beacon and a Mammut avalanche airbag pack as
part of their preparation. Small group sizes foster a personalized feel and a comfortable pace. From the
morning safety briefing to the final run of the day, the team focuses on delivering a rewarding outing
for all.
Sun Valley itself has a rich history of adventure and sophistication, drawing outdoor enthusiasts and
visionaries since the 1930s. Today, the area continues to solidify its place as a cornerstone of the skiing
world, hosting events like the upcoming 2025 Ski World Cup Finals. At Sun Valley Heli Ski, they carry on
this legacy by combining the spirit of exploration with a deep respect for the natural beauty of the region.
The mountains are calling. Join Sun Valley Heli Ski this winter for an experience you’ll never forget.
SunValleyHeliSki.com
