Banff & Jasper Helicopter Flight + Snowshoe Experience

Banff & Jasper Helicopter Flight + Snowshoe Experience

Heli Snowshoeing Adventure in the Canadian Rockies offers stunning birds-eye views of snowy mountains, frozen lakes, and glaciers from a helicopter ride (20 or 30 minutes). Land at a high alpine meadow with 2+ meters of snow or at the Cline River/Waterfalls Creek confluence. Snowshoe 1 hour to a frozen waterfall, warm up with hot chocolate and Irish cream halfway.

5
$ 276
2 hours
358 + bookings
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Overview

The untouched vertical peaks of the Cline Pass and the deep, powdery basins of the high alpine serve as the stage for this 80-minute to 2-hour helicopter and snowshoe expedition.

Operated by Rockies Heli Canada, this "Top Rated" journey transitions from a remote mountain base to a landing zone covered in over two meters of pristine snow.

You move from a bird's-eye perspective of ancient glaciers to a silent, 1-hour guided trek through the wilderness, experiencing an environment where the only sound is the crunch of snowshoes.

Because this tour features a strict small-group limit of 6 participants and depends on precise weather windows, you should book your Rockies heli-snowshoe tour early to secure your 2026 winter departure.

What's Included

  • 20-, 30-, or 55-minute Helicopter Flight
  • 1-Hour Guided Snowshoe Adventure
  • Hot Chocolate with Irish Cream
  • Professional Snowshoes & Hiking Poles
  • Winter Clothes & Boots (if required)
  • Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
  • Gratuities (Tips)
  • Personal Snacks
  • Professional Photography Gear
  • International Travel Insurance

Itinerary

  1. The journey begins at the Rockies Heli base (located 2.5 hours from Banff). After a safety briefing and gear check, you’ll board the helicopter for a vertical climb over the Cline River and Waterfalls Creek. Depending on your selected duration, you’ll soar over massive icefields and frozen lakes before your pilot performs a precision landing in a remote, high-alpine meadow.
  2. Step out of the aircraft into a landscape buried under meters of fresh powder. You’ll set off on a 1-hour guided snowshoe hike toward a frozen waterfall or a scenic mountain confluence. The terrain is largely untouched, offering a rare opportunity to explore the vertical scale of the Rockies from a point that is inaccessible by any other means.
  3. Midway through your trek, you’ll pause in the wilderness for a signature treat: hot chocolate spiked with Irish cream. After warming up and capturing photos of the surrounding ridges, you’ll snowshoe back to the helicopter for a final scenic flight back to the base terminal.

Expect a high-adventure, exclusive, and physically exhilarating immersion into the high country. The transition from the cabin of the helicopter to the deep snow involves a significant drop in temperature, though the activity of snowshoeing quickly warms the body. The environment is one of "total isolation," providing a vertical connection to nature that few travelers ever experience. Note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those weighing over 250 lbs (113 kg). You must confirm your booking and check the weather conditions one day prior to travel.

Heli-Snowshoe Insider Secrets

  • Wear polarized sunglasses or ski goggles; the vertical glare from the sun reflecting off two meters of white snow can be incredibly intense at high altitudes.

  • Always confirm your flight time with the local partner 24 hours in advance, as winter weather can cause vertical shifts in the daily schedule.

  • Our agency recommends booking the 30-minute flight option to ensure you see the most impressive glaciers before landing for your trek.

  • If you don't have professional-grade snow pants or waterproof boots, utilize the complimentary gear provided at the base to ensure you stay dry during the 1-hour walk.

Best Time to Visit

The snow depth and flight visibility change vertically with the mountain weather.

Season Months The Experience The Trade-off
Deep Winter Jan – Feb Maximum snow depth (2m+) and the most impressive frozen waterfalls. Coldest temperatures; dressing in high-quality thermal layers is essential.
Clear Skies March Longer daylight hours and a higher probability of blue-sky vertical views. The snow can become heavier; the guide will choose the best trail for the conditions.
Early Ice Dec Witnessing the first deep accumulations of the season and fresh ice formations. Daylight is limited; our agency suggests booking the midday slots for the best photography.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it hard to snowshoe?

No, the guide provides an introduction and the pace is kept comfortable for all participants.

How far is the base?

It is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Banff and 1.5 hours from Lake Louise.

What should I wear?

Very warm winter clothing is a must, though jackets and boots can be provided on-site.

What if it's too windy?

Flights are weather-dependent; the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled for safety if conditions are not ideal.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes, there is a maximum weight limit of 250 lbs (113 kg) per passenger.

Book it today with Banff National Park Tours or simply following this link.

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