FAQs

Why Mica?

With spectacular Rocky Mountain vistas, sixty feet of annual snowfall, a 100% small group format, luxury lakeside lodge and a super fun and experienced team, you'll see why Mica is a heliskier's paradise.
We absolutely love to share our knowledge and passion for mountain adventures. From deciding what to pack to guiding you down the slopes we will do all we can to ensure the journey and intimate experience is as smooth, safe, and memorable, as possible.

 

Where is the lodge located and how do we get there?

We are located 150 kms north of Revelstoke, BC, Canada. In other words, "the middle of nowhere."

  • Classic Program Guests: Getting here requires flying to Kelowna, BC and taking our custom shuttle to our staging along Kinbasket Lake where we then heli across to our lakeside lodge. We can also coordinate a private heli transfer from Kelowna or Revelstoke directly to the lodge. 
  • Private Program Guests: Getting here requires flying to Kelowna, BC and jumping on a private heli that transfers you and your guests directly to and from our lodge.
 

What is 'small group heliskiing' at Mica?

Small group can mean different things at different operations. At Mica, this means there will be 4 guests + 1 lead guide for each ski group; you fly together, you ride together. If you join us with three friends you will be partnered up. Otherwise, our guides will discuss your experience and skills and will group you will similarly skilled riders. In our opinion, small groups are the best way to heliski. Guides can cater the program and terrain selection to better suit the snow conditions and abilities of your small group. No pressure, all the fun.

 

How many guests do you accommodate?

We welcome up to 21 riders on each trip. Our classic program caters to 16 guests (4 groups of 4) and our private program hosts up to 5 guests in their own group.

 

How many helicopters do you use?

  • Classic program shares two A-Star helicopters between 4 groups of 4 guests (16 guests maximum).
  • Private guests have their own Koala helicopter at their group's disposal.
 

How strong of a rider do I need to be?

We recommend skiers and boarders be an intermediate to advanced ski resort rider. If you feel relatively comfortable on varied terrain and snow conditions, you should be fine. As you progress through the trip your confidence will grow and you will be exposed to more challenging terrain. The best way to learn to ski deep powder is to join us and ski deep powder!

The real key is FITNESS. You will be riding consecutive days and the fitter you are, the better your ski holiday will be and the more fun you will have. Fitness is just as important as your ability, if not more so. View the training program our team of guides and adventurers follow and get started with this home workout.

 

When is the best time of the year to come?

It depends, largely, on what kind of skiing you like to do (and when we have availability). December typically has the floaty, bottomless blower pow with shorter days and cozy lodge nights. January and February are tree-skiing heaven. March gets us into longer days with more frequent bluebird skies letting us explore more of our glaciated and wide open terrain. April is consistently a mixed bag of bluebird and storm powder. But then again, we are dealing with Mother Nature, so you need to be prepared for just about any kind of conditions at any time.

 

What gear do I need to bring to ride?

Bring your boots, helmet, goggles and water/wind proof outer winter wear. We provide all backcountry equipment – powder boards or skis/poles and snow safety gear.

Prior to your first day of skiing, our guiding team and pilots will provide a comprehensive safety training session covering the use of radios, avalanche transceivers, rescue techniques and a helicopter safety briefing. Our team will spend as much time with you as you need to feel comfortable using this equipment.

View our state-of-the-art snow safety equipment and ski/snowboard fleet here. All equipment is maintained daily on-site by our ski-tech.

Travel tip: We recommend you always fly with your boots as your carry-on luggage. For international guests, if your luggage does not make it, we can still you get you out riding with borrowed gear.

 

What should I wear for riding?

Proper layering is essential. We recommend bringing a wool baselayer, midlayer jacket (thickness varies for each person’s body temperature), face gaiter and a Goretex outer layer. Helmets are mandatory and do ensure your goggles fit your helmet and face well so you don’t fog up.

View and download our recommended packing checklist here.

 

Can I head back to the lodge earlier than others in my ski group or do we all have to agree to timing on this?

Absolutely. It is your vacation so you choose to ride as long, or short, of a day as you wish. In fact, some guests prefer to go out later in the morning, ski a half day or come in earlier to relax before après begins. Your guide and pilots will accommodate this request by coordinating the timing with one of our helicopters coming to the lodge to refuel. 

 

Can I bring a non-skier?

Yes, we do welcome non-skiers to relax in the stunning setting of our remote wilderness. There is a day rate for non-skiers that includes their shared accommodation, food and transportation from Kelowna to our lodge.

 

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! Our culinary team prepares every meal from scratch. Prior to joining us, our guest services team connects with each guest to ensure we are aware of any dietary requirements.

 

What happens on a down day?

Due to our location and weather, we are fortunate to experience very few full down days a season. Over the past many seasons, we have averaged four full down days annually due to weather conditions preventing us from flying. Should you experience a down day on your trip we organize an array of fun activities both inside and outside, weather pending. If you prefer to enjoy quiet time reading by the fireplace or soaking in a hottub, that is also available to you. In addition, we do have a snowcat at the lodge so if the weather and conditions allow, we will take guests complimentary skiing above our lodge.

 

Do I need to sign a waiver?

Yes. Each guest's participation in heli-skiing activities is conditional on them completing our Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risks and Indemnity Agreement (the "Waiver"). By signing the Waiver, you accept the risks, dangers and hazards associated with heli skiing.

Please REVIEW OUR WAIVER prior to booking with Mica as no refunds will be issued in the event that this form is not read, agreed to, and signed at the lodge by all participants.

 

Do you have cellular service or WiFi at the lodge?

We do not have cellular coverage but do provide complimentary high-speed internet and telephone service. WiFi calling is available if your device is enabled; WhatsApp, FaceTime and Skype are all viable options for communication with the outside world (should you want to be connected).