When a heli op bills itself as one of Canada’s most accessible, it’s a detail that should not be overlooked. Just a short drive from Kelowna International Airport, Kingfisher Heliskiing operates out of two separate lodges as well as the Silver Star Resort. The operation prides itself on getting people set up and riding faster than most, rather than stuck on the wrong side of a mountain pass or unable to reach the lodge due to grounded helicopters. A newcomer to the BC heli scene, Kingfisher flies in a largely untapped tract of the central Monashee Range, which means first descents are still plentiful. That’s right, you can show up, bag a line, then name it for all pow-loving posterity. And because of its easy access, Kingfisher can offer everything from a single day in the bird to a week-long luxury experience that doesn’t require specific arrival and departure times.

The bulk of the operation runs out of the rustic but comfortable Gold Panner Resort near Vernon, BC. Here, heli-skiing and a fully catered stay don’t require a trust fund. Kingfisher is one of the more affordable options in the province, and its unlimited vertical policy means you’ll ski as much powder as your legs can handle in terrain that ranges from high alpine to perfectly spaced trees, especially if you bring a crew of rippers big enough to fill an entire helicopter—the golden rule of heli skiing.

Looking for a swankier experience? Kingfisher has that too. Based out of the Swarovski-family-owned Sparkling Hill Resort on the shores of Lake Okanagan in Vernon, these higher-end packages deliver face shots by day and spa treatments with European-inspired comfort by night. There’s even an option to bring a non-skiing significant other on this luxury trip so your heli vacation can be cleverly disguised as a couples retreat.

This season Kingfisher adds heli-assisted ski touring to its repertoire. Hitch a lift to the top of your first line in a Bell 407 helicopter and then enjoy up to 4,000 vertical feet of guided, human-powered powder skiing amongst the Monashees before another ride in the bird back to cold beer. Priced only a fraction more than a full day at Vail (if you include a day ticket, parking, lunch and après), it’s the perfect option for the budget- conscious ski bum. And for those looking to up their backcountry game, check out one of Kingfisher’s new heli-assisted freeride camps to unleash your inner meat hucker. Based on price, accessibility and powder potential, Kingfisher Heliskiing should be on just about everyone’s short list if they’re heading north this season.

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