Adventure Seekers Must Try This Extreme Form of Skiing in Colorado

Colorado residents are no strangers to skiing and snowboarding down the slopes of the Rocky Mountains. However, there's another way to experience the thrills of the High Country: heli-skiing.

Powderbird defines heli-skiing (or heliboarding for snowboarders) as the practice of using a helicopter to access "untouched" backcountry terrain.

Get our free mobile app

While heli-skiing is an extreme sport, it isn't as harrowing as it may seem. According to Ski.com, "strong intermediate skiers" are usually capable enough for the experience.

Heli-skiing isn't cheap, but it sure is exhilarating. Here's where you can try it in Colorado:

Silverton Mountain Ski Area | San Juan Mountains

According to Silverton Mountain, their heli-skiing trips offer "the best experience on snow anywhere." In total, the company's routes reach more than 29,000 acres of mountain terrain.

Unreal, unforgettable skiing. I will remember this place for the rest of my life. Not for the faint of heart. Respect the mountain, respect your own skills, and only do what you are comfortable with.

— Brian W., Google Review

Trips to Book:

• Single Heli Run Trip — $184
• Six-Heli Run Trip — $1,190
• Private Heli Trip — $11,990+

Telluride Helitrax | San Juan Mountains

Telluride Helitrax is proud to be the "only full-service helicopter skiing operating" in Colorado. Each six-run trip comes with equipment — including powders skis, poles, powder snowboards, and transceivers — and expert training, along with lunch and snacks.

Super professional crew, and one of the absolute best ski days of our lives. It was our first time doing heli-skiing, and we felt safe and pepared with Helitrax.

— Seth W., Google Review

Trips to Book: 

• Daily Heli-Skiing — $1,650
• Custom Heli-Ski Tours — $10,500 an hour

If you'd rather stick with regular skiing, then make sure to check out Colorado's top 10 ski resorts in the gallery below.