Terrace (BC), Canada – Responding to what they’re saying is demand for a more intimate experience, Northern Escape Heli-Skiing, located in British Columbia’s Coastal Mountain Range, has introduced the new A-Star Elite heli-ski package for winter 2014. The A-Star Elite is designed for eight guests (two groups of four) using a dedicated A-Star B2 helicopter, with cozy accommodation in a private mountain lodge. This boutique mountain experience comes with its own pilot and chef and is ideal for a group or family wanting to ski at their own pace – whether fast or leisurely – with no pressure from other skiers.
Pioneer Lodge, a traditional style lodge on the mountainside above the Skeena River, will be home to A-Star Elite package guests. In addition to single or double rooms, all with in-suite bathrooms, Pioneer Lodge’s comfortable lounge is ideal for après-ski relaxing. Pioneer’s guests can also go to the nearby Yellow Cedar Lodge, Northern Escape’s main property, to mingle with the larger group and enjoy a drink at the new outdoor bar or game room.
“We’ve created an experience that will appeal to family groups or friends wanting the intimacy of their own private lodge, without the price ticket of an exclusive private package,” explains John Forrest, Northern Escape CEO and a heli-ski industry veteran of 28 years. “The beauty here is having the helicopter go at your pace, and enjoying your own lodge at the end of the day.”
At Northern Escape, guests looking to maximize their time on the slopes can buy unlimited heli-skiing or heli-boarding as a $900 CAD add-on, and increase the minimum vertical guaranteed.
Northern Escape Heli-Skiing is one of the easiest lodges to get to in the heli-ski industry. Its home town of Terrace is a two-hour flight from Vancouver International Airport, so most international guests enjoy dinner at the lodge the same day they leave home. This easy access also means that on the last day of all Northern Escape packages, guests ski a full day then have dinner at the lodge before returning to Vancouver for their connecting flights.
Rates for the A-Star Elite start from $5,299 CAD for a three-day package. For more information on Northern Escape Heli-Skiing’s A-Star Elite rates visit www.neheliski.com/a-