Chile — A trip to Valle Nevado is a complete experience, as the Chilean resort is home to great shredding and après-ski festivities. But for many, the highlight of the trip is heli-skiing.
Valle Nevado’s heli-skiing is considered among the best on the continent—and in the world. The operation includes access to 125,000 hectares (over 308,000 acres) of terrain just minutes from the resort. The runs are exceptional, thanks to light, dry powder typical of the Andes in winter.
Runs typically start around 4,200 meters and finish near 2,500 meters, offering vertical drops of approximately 1,200 to 1,700 meters (around 4,000 to 6,000 feet), depending on snow conditions.
Surprisingly, heli-skiing at Valle Nevado isn’t just for experts. Intermediate skiers can enjoy wide, rolling terrain, while advanced riders have access to long, steep couloirs.
The heli-ski season runs from late July to the first week of September. All programs include:
- Avalanche safety gear (airbag backpack, beacon, shovel, and probe)
- Safety briefing and gear instruction
- Lunch
Skiers typically complete four to five per day, each with major vertical and outstanding snow conditions. In addition to the full-day experience, Valle Nevado also offers full-week heli-ski programs for those looking to explore the terrain in depth.
If you want to learn more about the Valle Nevado heli-skiing experience, we had the chance to speak with Mike Barney, who’s a heli-skiing guide for the company. Here’s what he had to say about the experience:
How did you get started in heli-skiing?
I started in Valdez, Alaska, working as ground crew and tail guide. I was guiding at Silverton Mountain at the time and wanted to explore heli-skiing, since Silverton didn’t offer it back then. Working with a heli-ski company seemed like the right way to get into it.
When did you start working at Valle Nevado?
I started working with Valle Nevado Heliski in 2012 or 2013.
Where else have you guided?
I guide for Eleven Experience, based in Crested Butte, which operates lodges worldwide. I guide in Iceland in May and in Patagonia in October and November. I also continue to work in Valdez, Alaska, currently with Alaska Backcountry Guides.
What Makes Valle Nevado Heli-Skiing Unique?
The elevation and vertical relief of the Andes in this area are unlike anywhere else. You can step out of the helicopter and ski up to 6,000 feet of vertical, making it a serious challenge in a stunning natural setting.
We fly near peaks of over 21,000 feet, skirting the Argentine border with views of active volcanoes and incredible terrain.
The program is tailored to each skier’s level. We operate two helicopters: one for guests on Full Week heli-ski programs and another for those staying at the resort who want to try heli-skiing for a day (Full Day). Guests are grouped by skill level and preferences, allowing them to experience heli-skiing without committing to a full week.
Our guides have decades of experience and know how to read the guests’ pace and needs. If it’s your first time, they’ll help you feel comfortable. If you’re experienced, you can take on more runs or steeper terrain.
I’m considered the “rookie” of the team with 12 seasons—my fellow guides have been working here for 20 to 30 years.
Valle Nevado’s heli-skiing has a special cultural touch. I’m the only North American guide; my three teammates are seasoned Chilean guides who know the terrain and the local history inside out, which adds a unique dimension to the experience.
What’s the Heli Season Like at Valle Nevado?
The season is relatively short due to the latitude (similar to San Diego or Phoenix), but the high elevation ensures excellent snow. August is by far the best month for heli-skiing in the Central Andes, though early September can also offer great conditions.
From August 1st, we operate with two helicopters. Interestingly, heli-ski terrain often has better snow than the resort, since we fly east toward larger mountains with higher snowfall.
Pacific storms hit the Continental Divide, where snow accumulates more heavily. Many times it can be snowing in the heli terrain while sunny at the resort.
The combination of altitude and proximity to the ocean creates ideal conditions: dry, champagne powder, sunlight, and varied terrain, often protected from wind.
What’s New for 2025?
This year, we’re upgrading our gear with new BCA avalanche airbags, along with beacons, shovels, and probes for all guests.
Interested in booking a heli-skiing experience? Email us at heliski@vallenevado.com or book directly at vallenevado.com
Image/Video Credits: Valle Nevado
