Northern Escape Heli-Skiing Extends Its Reign

Northern Escape Heli-Skiing has done it again. For the fourth straight year, the Terrace-based operator has been voted World’s Best Heli-Ski Operator, a streak that now places it firmly at the top of the global heli-ski landscape. But the story isn’t just about deep snow and big terrain—it’s about how the industry’s leaders are earning their status in 2025.

What’s becoming increasingly clear is that Canada’s top heli-ski operators aren’t winning solely on the strength of their mountains. They’re winning on the strength of their stewardship.

Northern Escape’s closest competitor, Bella Coola Heli Sports, once again finished among the top finalists—a rivalry that has quietly become one of the most compelling in the ski world. These two operators share more than Coast Mountain storm cycles; they share a commitment to operating in a way that protects the very landscapes their businesses depend on.

Both companies have pushed well beyond the lip-service era of “environmental awareness.” Northern Escape has implemented meaningful carbon-offset programs, invested in energy-efficient operations, and is steadily moving toward lower-emission aviation solutions. Bella Coola has built one of the most ambitious sustainability and community-funding models in the heli-ski sector, channeling guest surcharges directly into conservation and local initiatives, and positioning itself as climate-positive.

In a sport long defined by adventure and adrenaline, the criteria for “best” have evolved—and Northern Escape’s four-year run reflects that shift. Guests, guides, and industry professionals are now voting with a broader lens: snow quality, lodge experience, safety culture, and terrain are still essential, but stewardship is becoming a decisive factor.

This is the new competitive edge in Canadian heli-skiing. And the rivalry between Northern Escape and Bella Coola—two operators leading the global field—is pushing the entire sector toward higher standards, deeper responsibility, and better long-term outcomes for the wilderness we ski in.

With its latest win, Northern Escape has set a new benchmark. But the race isn’t over—and that’s good news for the mountains, the snow, and everyone who rides it.