safety

Rigorous Standards

our approach

Minimizing Risk & Professional Standards

Helicopter skiing takes place in a dynamic mountain environment. While risk can never be eliminated, it can be thoughtfully managed through experience, preparation, and sound decision-making.

Crescent Spur is a proud member of HeliCat Canada, the industry association that sets professional operating standards for helicopter and snowcat skiing in British Columbia, Alberta, and the Yukon. We operate in accordance with these established guidelines and best practices.

Our approach is grounded in:

  • Working with highly experienced guides and pilots

  • Ongoing training and professional development

  • Careful terrain and weather assessment

  • Clear communication with guests

  • Providing appropriate equipment and instruction

A well-run heli-ski week is built on preparation, professionalism, and respect for the mountain environment.

GUEST ORIENTATION & TRAINING

SAFETY & RISK AWARENESS

Each week begins with a comprehensive orientation. Guests receive instruction in:

  • Avalanche transceiver use

  • Avalanche airbag pack operation

  • Hand-held radio communication

  • Helicopter approach and departure procedures

All required safety equipment is provided by Crescent Spur. The orientation ensures guests understand how equipment functions and what to expect while traveling and skiing and snowboarding in the mountains.

Helicopter skiing and snowboarding involve inherent risks, including the possibility of injury. Mountain weather, snow conditions, terrain, and other natural hazards are variable and can change quickly.

We encourage all guests to click the button below for more information on Safety & Risk Awareness information prior to arrival. This material outlines the risks, dangers, and hazards associated with helicopter skiing and snowboarding so you can make informed decisions about participation.

View our Release of Liability Waiver

Our Helicopter

A State-of-the-Art Bell 205

A Bell 205

Crescent Spur operates a Bell 205 helicopter, configured to carry up to 10 guests and two guides. The aircraft is equipped with modern avionics and precision instrumentation designed to support mountain operations in a range of winter conditions.

Our pilots bring extensive experience in mountain flying, including winter and alpine environments. They are supported by licensed aircraft maintenance engineers who follow Transport Canada regulations and structured maintenance programs to ensure the aircraft is maintained to industry standards.

The Bell 205’s lifting capacity and performance characteristics make it well suited to heli-ski operations in the terrain we ski.

our guides

mountain experts

All of our guides are certified and meet, or exceed, industry qualification requirements and belong to the Canadian Avalanche Association, the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides or the Canadian Ski Guide Association. They have decades of direct expertise in the mountains and in backcountry skiing, avalanche forecasting, and safety—as well as first aid knowledge, mountain rescue skills, and group management capabilities.

 “CS is the perfect blend of adrenaline, excitement, tranquility and bonding with the mountains, with a safety focus driven by guides and pilots that are much more experienced than most. Then, back to a 5 star lodging and food experience, with a group size that allows for wonderful friendships among skiers and staff alike!”
Scott H., AZ
 “This was the best ski experience I’ve ever had in my life. The guides made every run safe, gave clear directions and maximized our time on the hill. This experience has raised the quality of my life and will again when I return next year!”
Douglas H., BC
“This was my first heli skiing experience and it just blew my expectations out of the water. I felt incredibly safe the entire time, both in the helicopter and on the mountain, and the terrain was fast and fun and beautiful beyond words. I have nothing but great things to say about my time at CS and I’m looking forward to my next trip.”
Josh D., CO
 “Crescent Spur sets the standard for a heli skiing operation. The place runs like a Swiss watch. No detail is overlooked. I have never felt safer in a mechanized skiing operation.”
Rich R., CA
“Crescent Spur is more guest oriented than any other heli operator. Families, spouses, and mixed ability groups can experience heliskiing, while the expert skier gets a full share of challenging terrain, providing a quality heli experience for all ability levels of skiers; from first timers to multi trip guests.”
Jake K., IL