Canadian Mountain Holidays

Our program accommodates all levels of fitness, so we leave this completely up to your discretion. Whether you’re up for hiking, walking, ambling, or (conditions permitting) mountaineering, we tailor each Heli-Hiking day for all levels of fitness, experience, and all ages. We split our groups as necessary so everyone can stay within their comfort level. All you really need is a thirst for adventure.

The mountains where we hike are abundant with glaciers and other features characteristic of high altitude terrain, but at a lower, more comfortable altitude: we generally hike at 1,800 – 2,700 m (6,000 – 9,000 feet). That said, if you are traveling here directly from sea level, you may experience minor effects of the altitude change, particularly some shortness of breath during physical exertion. Keeping well-hydrated and well-rested is one of the best ways to counter these.

You are welcome to bring your own hiking gear – boots, pack and rain wear. Also note that laundry facilities and soap are available at the lodges (no charge).

We provide some of the specialized gear you will need for backcountry heli-hiking:

•  Technical, waterproof, leather hiking boots (Salomon, Tecnica, Garmont) ranging from children's size 13 – men's size 13, medium width

•  Lightweight sweater/ fleece and/or vest

•  Two long and short sleeved shirts or technical shirts

•  Comfortable pants for hiking (jeans are not recommended)

•  Ear protectors for use in the helicopter

•  Rain pants

•  Canvas Lunch Bag

What you should bring for yourself (or pick up at our well-stocked on-site shop):

•  Light weight jacket ( wind and rain resistant)

•  Light weight sweater/ fleece and/or vest

•  Two long and short sleeved shirts or technical shirts

•  Comfortable pants for hiking (jeans are not recommended)

•  Two or three pairs of socks (wool or synthetic, thick and thin pairs)

•  Shorts (zip-off long pant/shorts combination)

•  Good quality sunglasses

•  Hat or ball cap, warm gloves (be prepared for all types of weather)

•  Camera

•  Swim suit

•  Insect repellent and sunscreen

•  Indoor shoes/sandals

•  OPTIONAL ITEMS: alarm clock, flashlight, trekking poles, binoculars

Passports: A valid passport is required for entry into Canada. To avoid delays at Canadian Customs, please be sure your passport and supporting information is up-to-date.

Plan to arrive in the Banff/Lake Louise area at least one day prior to the start of your Heli-Hiking adventure. Our Vacation Planners can assist with booking all your land arrangements before and after Heli-Hiking, including transfer from the Calgary Airport to Banff (or Lake Louise) and accommodation before and after your trip, if necessary.

Trips include ground transportation from Banff to the Bugaboo and Bobbie Burns helipads. Ground transportation is also included from the helipads to the Calgary Airport.

You can also drive directly to all CMH helipads. If driving, plan to arrive at the helipad at least 15 minutes prior to the first flight (see itinerary for details). The helicopter schedule is fixed. Maps to the helipad are available.

Trip Cancellation: An application form for trip cancellation insurance will be sent to you with the request for final payment. We strongly recommend that you purchase this insurance for your own protection. The trip cancellation insurance premium is due with the final payment eight weeks before the trip. We regret that it cannot be purchased after final payment is made.
Trip Cancellation Insurance Form (93 KB PDF)

Medical Insurance: An application form for medical insurance will be enclosed with the request for final payment. Please review your present medical insurance to verify that it covers helicopter evacuation. If it doesn't, or if you don't have coverage for Canada, we strongly suggest that you purchase this insurance.