When is the summer season?
We run our summer trips from late June to late August. Specific dates very each summer, so take a look at our Trip Planner to secure your vacation.
What's a typical day like in summer?
Morning: Join the 7:30am warm-up class or sleep a little longer. Breakfast is served at 8:00am and the first helicopter leaves at 9:00am.
Each group, with its own guide, spends the day roaming and hiking in the mountains. Over the course of the day, the helicopter may move each group to three or four different areas giving you a chance to experience a variety of settings. Just as our groups vary, our mileage varies from approximately one kilometre (1/2 mile) to 15 kilometres (9 miles) - guests hike as much or as little as they desire.
Lunch: Enjoyed picnic-style with food that you pack from a great selection set out at the lodge each morning.
Afternoon: Continue to explore, hike, or climb with your guide.
Late Afternoon: Fly back to the lodge for apres-hike snacks and relaxation prior to a spectacular dinner and an evening of story-swapping.
What's included in my trip? What should I pack?
All summer trips include accommodation at one of three spectacular lodges, food and non-premium non-alcoholic beverages, certified guides and helicopter pilots, safety training and the use of hiking equipment (boots, jackets, daypacks, rain pants, walking poles, and water bottles). For further information on what's included, visit the page of the trip.
What is the minumum age for children?
Children must be a minimum of 6 years old to participate in hiking programs. Parents must hike with their children, and the pace set by the slowest member of the group.
There's a lot of people in our family - Can you accommodate all of us?
Absolutely - we can accommodate up to 44 guests on any one trip. Explore group options
What's the weather like?
Due to the high mountain environment, you can expect various conditions. While the weather can be sunny and warm, you should also be prepared for cooler temperatures, rain, wind and possibly snow.
Mountain weather can change with very little warning. Temperatures range from highs of 10 to 35 degrees C (50 - 95F) to lows of -1 to 15 degrees C (30 - 50F).
What is the hiking terrain like? Do I get dropped off at the top of a mountain and then hike down?
There’s a variety of terrain to explore - you might get dropped off:
- In an alpine meadow and hike up to a summit
- On a glacier to explore and hike on and around
- On a mountain ridge and hike down to alpine meadows
Your group will hike based on fitness level and ability preferences, which will determine your hiking options. Compare hiking styles
Learn more about Heli-Hiking by watching our recent live event
The trip I want to book is sold out! What are my options?
You have chosen a popular trip! We recommend looking at availability for our other lodges for the same date, or contact our Sales team at 1-800-661-0252 to look at other options!
I'm not a hiker - will I be able to keep up with the group?
Whether it’s a hike, walk or amble, each heli-hiking day is tailored to all levels of fitness, experience and age. We split the group as necessary so everyone can stay within their comfort level. The only requirement is a thirst for adventure.
I'm an avid hiker - will I be challenged?
Absolutely! Our guides share a passion for exploring all the mountains have to offer. If you’re seeking a challenge, they’ll deliver a great workout.
Will we encounter wildlife?
We strive to avoid any contact with wildlife. However, our guides are trained in safely dealing with wildlife encounters, should one occur.
How many helicopter trips will I get to take?
In addition to your heli flights to and from the lodge, each day offers the chance to heli to new adventures – with unprecedented access. On average, you can expect two or three helicopter lifts per day, depending on your group and weather conditions.
What happens when nature calls and we’re on the trail?
We hike and explore remote areas where there are no conventional washrooms. Mother Nature provides trees and rocks for privacy. We recommend bringing toilet paper and a ziplock bag. Paper used in the field can be carried in your bag and disposed of back at the lodge.
Are gratuities included?
The CMH team is committed to ensuring that you enjoy the trip of a lifetime. While gratuities are not included in your trip fees – nor are they mandatory – they are gratefully accepted on a voluntary basis. Gratuities are divided among all of the lodge staff and your pilot.