Feature: Haines Named One of the World’s Best Heli-Skiing Destinations
POWDER magazine recently released its list of The 8 Best Heli-Skiing Destinations in the World, and Haines, Alaska earned the top spot. The article, written by Max Ritter, captures the unmatched thrill of heli-skiing—from the pulse of rotor blades echoing through the mountains to the rare chance to carve untouched lines in some of the planet’s most dramatic terrain.
Heli-skiing, as Ritter explains, comes in many forms. Whether you’re seeking steep, cinematic big-mountain lines or more approachable powder laps, the global destinations on the list offer a wide range of experiences. But Haines stands apart.
Why Haines Tops the List
In highlighting Haines as Destination #1, Ritter writes:
“Want to ski the classic Alaska spine lines you see in the movies? Welcome to Haines, Alaska. This small fishing town… is home to a handful of heli-skiing operations that specialize in guiding some of the steepest terrain in North America.”
With massive alpine access, towering spine walls, and the deep, stable coastal snowpack the Chilkat Range is known for, Haines continues to draw skiers and riders from around the world. The article notes the expertise of local guides, the remote wilderness setting, and the legendary conditions that have helped shape Haines’ reputation as one of heli-skiing’s true bucket-list destinations.
Safety & Experience
The piece also acknowledges the inherent risks of backcountry helicopter skiing, emphasizing that top operators—including those here in Haines—rely on highly trained pilots, certified guides, and seasoned support teams dedicated to delivering safe and memorable experiences.
Read the Full Article
You can read the complete POWDER feature—including all eight destinations—here:
The 8 Best Heli-Skiing Destination in the World
