CMH HELI-HIKING ADVENTURES
Overview
This adventure is your gateway to one of the most uniquely Canadian wilderness experiences, where soaring helicopter flights, expert-led alpine exploration, and exceptional mountain hospitality come together in one unforgettable journey.
Whether you’re stepping into the alpine for the first time or returning to the mountains for a deeper challenge, CMH Heli-Hiking offers routes and pace options for every type of traveler. With daily helicopter access, certified guides, lodge-to-table cuisine, and boutique-style accommodations, each day unfolds as a new chapter in your mountain story.
Your home base will be one of CMH’s remarkable backcountry lodges, each offering its own personality, comforts, and mountain charm:
Bugaboo Lodge – A Canadian icon sitting beneath the dramatic Bugaboo Glacier at 1,490 m. Deeply tied to Canada’s adventure heritage, the lodge features rustic-chic log architecture, a sauna, games room, and the world-famous hot tub view overlooking the granite spires. This is the birthplace of heli-skiing, and today, an equally spectacular destination for summer alpine exploration.
Bobbie Burns Lodge – Newly rebuilt in 2019, Bobbie Burns represents a contemporary take on wilderness comfort. At 1,360 m, it features a spa area with steam and sauna, a rooftop hot tub, a swimming pond, and a lively games lounge. With creative dining and an impressive wine cellar, every evening feels like a celebration of mountain life.
Itinerary
Please note that this is a sample itinerary for the 4 – 5 day CMH Heli-Hiking program. Activities and routes vary by lodge, weather, and group ability. Contact us for custom options and quotes.
Arrival Day
- Morning: Meet your coach transfer in Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise, or Canmore for a scenic journey along the Icefields Parkway — one of the world’s most iconic mountain routes.
- Afternoon: Arrive at the heli-pad and take a breathtaking helicopter flight to your lodge. After check-in, join a welcome orientation and safety briefing with your guides.
- Evening: If weather permits, stretch your legs on a short introductory hike before enjoying your first lodge dinner, a warm, communal meal that sets the tone for the days ahead.
Days 2–3 (or 4) – Adventure Days
- Morning stretch and hearty breakfast
- Daily heli-assisted guided hikes or optional via ferrata climbing routes
- Picnic lunch surrounded by soaring peaks and alpine lakes
- Return to the lodge for relaxation — massages, hot tub, or fireside lounge
Final Day – Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a final hike or relaxing morning at the lodge, followed by lunch.
- Afternoon: Board your helicopter back to the base and meet your coach transfer returning to Banff or Calgary.
FAQs
How do I get there?
Depends on the package and your dates, there are three lodges. There are two ways to get to the lodge:
Option 1 | CMH Coach to helicopter departure point (helipad) + Helicopter flight to lodge:
This is the most convenient option, private coach transfers (scheduled) from Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise, Golden and Jasper are available and the cost is included in your package. (Please note that pickup/drop off locations vary from packages).
For international travellers travelling directly, you could fly into Calgary and catch the coach transfer from Calgary.
Option 2 | Self-Drive to the helipad. Helicopter flight to lodge
If you would like to visit other parts of Canada, and self drive though the Canadian Rockies, you could pick up a rental car from Vancouver or Calgary, drive directly to the designated helicopter departure points. This option offers flexibility to add a few stops along the way before or after your heli-hiking adventure.
Tip: Please note that if you are self driving through Banff, a Parks Canada Pass may be required for your vehicle and party.
Please contact us for additional info about Coach transfer location & schedules, Helipad locations, self drive instruction, and pre and post car rental or hotel options.
Does this package require Travel Insurance?
Yes, all heli-hiking packages require mandatory travel insurance that cover specific items. Our affiliated company Uniglobe Specialty Travel has licensed agents who specialized on heli-hiking and heli-skiing insurance. Please click HERE to request a quote
Do I need previous hiking or mountaineering experience?
No prior mountaineering experience is required. CMH Heli-Hiking is designed for a wide range of abilities, from first-time alpine hikers to seasoned adventurers. Each day offers multiple route options, and your certified guides will match the terrain to your comfort level. Gentle meadow walks, moderate ridgelines, and more challenging objectives are all available.
What should I pack for a heli-hiking trip?
Pack comfortable outdoor clothing that can be layered for changing mountain weather, plus personal essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. CMH provides high-quality gear (boots, rainwear, backpacks, and hiking poles) so you don’t need to bring technical equipment. A full “What to Bring” list is included with your booking.
How does the helicopter component work each day?
Helicopters are used for lodge transfers and daily access to remote alpine terrain. Each morning, groups fly into a selected hiking zone based on weather and conditions. Flights are short, scenic, and led by highly experienced pilots. All helicopter operations follow strict safety protocols, and a safety orientation is provided upon arrival.
What is the lodge experience like?
CMH lodges balance wilderness immersion with exceptional comfort. Depending on your lodge, you can enjoy amenities such as hot tubs, saunas, spa treatments, cozy lounges, games rooms, and creative lodge-to-table dining. Evenings are relaxed and social, with guides and guests gathering for dinner, storytelling, and stunning mountain sunsets.
What meals and beverages are included during my stay?
All CMH heli-hiking packages include three chef-prepared meals daily, plus après-hike snacks and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your stay. Breakfasts are hearty and fuel-focused, lunches are often enjoyed picnic-style surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and dinners feature creative regional cuisine served family-style. Coffee, tea, juice, and soft drinks are included. Alcoholic beverages and specialty wines are available for purchase at the lodge.
How do I visit Banff or the Rocky Mountains before / after my trip?
Visiting the Canadian Rockies is a great way to complement this package and help you tick off two bucket list item.
As a locally operated and full service travel company, we can customize additional package for our travel to visit Banff, Lake Louse, Jasper, Calgary or Vancouver, and beyond. From flights, tours, car rentals to pre and post hotel accommodations, we can do parts of do it all and save you time and hustles. Please contact us for your specific need.
June - Sept 2026 /2027
Duration
Double (3 Nights)
Single (3 Nights)
Double (4 Nights)
Single (4 Nights)
Highlights
- Adventure for All Levels: Choose from relaxed alpine strolls to more challenging mountain routes with expert guidance.
- Unrivalled Wilderness Access: Daily helicopter flights transport you to breathtaking terrain unreachable by road.
- Professional Guides & True Hospitality: Accredited guides and attentive lodge teams provide safety, support, and exceptional service throughout your stay.
- Lodge Comforts with Alpine Views: Enjoy gourmet dining, rooftop hot tubs, lounges, spa areas, and cozy rooms after each day’s adventure.
- A Canadian Classic: Immerse yourself in our country’s iconic mountain landscapes, wildlife, and welcoming spirit.
Inclusions
3 or 4 nights in deluxe double-occupancy rooms at a CMH lodge (Bugaboo or Bobby Burns)- Three chef-prepared meals daily, plus après-hike snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
- Daily heli-assisted hikes guided by certified mountain professionals
- Round-trip ground transportation from Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore, or Jasper
3 or 4 nights in deluxe double-occupancy rooms at a CMH lodge (Bugaboo or Bobby Burns)What to Bring:
- Comfortable outdoor clothing and warm layers (weather in the alpine changes quickly)
- Sturdy hiking socks (CMH provides boots but personal socks recommended)
- Swimsuit for hot tubs and saunas
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and sun hat
- Personal medications
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or phone for capturing unforgettable mountain moments
- Travel insurance is mandatory for heli-hiking packages. We can help you arrange this specific insurance through Uniglobe Specialty Travel
