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Top 5 Places to Go Heli-Skiing in British Columbia

Are you planning a heli-skiing family vacation this year? If so, you may want to select a place in British Columbia, Canada. In my opinion, it features some of the best heli-skiing in the world.

Helicopter.
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Here are my picks for the best five places to go:

1. Mike Wiegele's Heli Village Resort

Mike Wiegele's Heli Village Resort, located in Blue River, is well worth your consideration. It features hand-hewn, log chalets with private helicopter pads, trained guides and all-inclusive, unlimited vertical packages. Other on-site amenities include gourmet dining, a fitness center, saunas, whirlpools and massage services. Package rates vary, but typically start at $4,000 per person for a three-day trip.

2. Snowwater Heli-Skiing Lodge

The Snowwater Heli-Sking Lodge in South Slocan is another spot I'd recommend. It provides an intimate setting high in the Bonnington Mountains with sweeping vistas and all-inclusive, unlimited vertical packages. What sets Snowater apart from the rest are snowcat backups, organic dining and a fireworks show. Other on-site amenities include hot tubs and massage services. Package rates tend to start at $3,000 per person.

3. Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

The Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is located in Golden and works with both Purcell Helicopter Skiing and Great Canadian Heli-Skiing to offer their guests packages that range in duration and price. What I like about the resort is that it is located near the Rockies and six National Parks. It also boasts the second highest vertical drop in the country and is home to the Eagle's Eye Suites. The Eagle's Eye Suites sits at 7,700 feet above sea level and affords visitors breath-taking views of multiple mountain ranges.

4. Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Blackcomb in Whistler offers heli-skiing packages that do not include lodging. There are a variety of nearby lodging options to choose from. I'd suggest that you consider either the Glacier Lodge located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, or the Cascade Lodge located 10 minutes away from the ski lifts. You will have the option of selecting from both glacier and powder runs. Heli-ski packages tend to start at $815 and include a certified guide, lunch and ground transportation.

5. Powder Mountain

Powder Mountain in Whistler is the last place to make my list. It features both glacier and powder runs, as well as snowcat backups. The group sizes are small and prices don't include lodging, but if you choose an area hotel that has a helicopter pad, the staff will fly in and pick you up. Rates tend to start at $600 per person.

My family enjoys winter sports and has been to Canada many times.

More from this contributor:

Top 5 Men's Snowboarding Goggles

Top 5 Snowboarding Pants for Men

Top 5 Places to Go Cat-Skiing in Canada

Top 5 Ski Resorts in British Columbia for Vertical Drops

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Updated Monday, Dec 5, 2011