Trip Preparation

CMH Heli-Hiking Guests with Helicopter

Here is some additional information about your upcoming trip.

Still have questions? Email us or call 1.800.661.0252.

When will I receive more detailed information about my trip?

As soon as you have booked your trip we will mail you a comprehensive information package that includes:

  • General Information and Travel Tips
  • Descriptive Heli-Hiking itinerary
  • Waiver form that you will need to complete and return it to our office with your deposit
  • Guest Questionnaire that we also ask you complete and return to us.
  • Packing List
  • Optional Reading List
  • Pre-trip warm-up suggestions
  • Emergency contact details on wallet sized card

Are hiking boots and other hiking gear provided by the lodge?

Yes. We provide some of the specialized gear you will need for backcountry heli-hiking:

  • Technical, waterproof, leather hiking boots (Salomon, Tecnica, Garmont) ranging from children's size 13 – men's size 13 medium width
  • Day pack
  • Water bottle
  • Walking stick/ski pole
  • Insulated, hooded jacket (wind and rain resistant)
  • Rain gear
  • Ear protectors for use in the helicopter
  • Mountaineering gear (if we organize a mountaineering group)

What do I need to pack?

Here's a list of what you should bring for yourself (or pick up at our well-stocked on-site shop):

  • Light weight jacket ( wind and rain resistant)
  • Light weight sweater/ fleece and/or vest
  • Two long and short sleeved shirts or technical shirts
  • Comfortable pants for hiking (jeans are not recommended)
  • Two or three pairs of socks (wool or synthetic, thick and thin pairs)
  • Shorts (zip-off long pant/shorts combination)
  • Good quality sunglasses
  • Sun hat/ball cap
  • Camera
  • Hat and gloves
  • Swim suit
  • Insect repellent and sunscreen
  • Indoor shoes/sandals
  • Optional items : bathrobe, alarm clock, flash light, trekking poles, binoculars

You are welcome to bring your own hiking gear – boots, pack and rain wear. Also note that laundry facilities and soap are available at the lodges (no charge).


Is hiking gear available in your lodge's shop?

Yes. Check out our on-line store: shop@cmh . For more information, email us at retailshop@cmhinc.com or call our Shop Division at 1-800-661-0252.


What else can I find in your shops?

From technical to casual, kids to adults, we have everything for your Heli-Hiking needs. Each lodge's shop features a complete line of specially-designed CMH clothing, as well as many brand names from around the world. Our retail bywords are quality, function, uniqueness, and value. Every item is field tested before we will endorse it.

We also carry film, sunglasses, ear protection, custom luggage, and souvenirs. And while we can't fill prescriptions (you must bring these with you), we do stock a range of over-the-counter medicines.


Will I need a passport?

A valid passport is required for entry into Canada. To avoid delays at Canadian Customs, please be sure your passport and supporting information is up-to-date.


How do I get to the start of the trip? How will I get to the airport at the end of the trip?

Plan to arrive in the Banff/Lake Louise area at least one day prior to the start of your Heli-Hiking adventure. Our Vacation Planning team can assist with booking all your land arrangements before and after Heli-Hiking including transfer from the Calgary Airport to Banff (or Lake Louise), accommodation before the trip starts and at the end of your trip if necessary. Call our Vacation Planners if you require assistance with your plans.

Your Heli-Hiking trip includes ground transportation from Banff to the Adamant, Bugaboo, Bobbie Burns and Cariboo helipads. Our coaches depart designated locations (TBA) at specific times. Should you miss the scheduled CMH transport, you are responsible for all costs incurred. Ground transportation is also included from the Adamant, Bugaboo, Bobbie Burns and Cariboo helipads to the Calgary Airport.

You may choose to drive directly to all CMH helipads. If driving, please inform us, and plan to arrive at the helipad at least 15 minutes prior to the first flight. Maps to the helipad are available.

The helicopter schedule is fixed. Again, please ensure you arrive in advance of the first flight.

Detailed itineraries including times and locations are included in your information package.


Where should I fly to?

We recommend you fly to the Calgary International Airport as all trips originate in Banff . Call us for alternate pick up locations if your arrangements differ.

There are several companies, which provide scheduled ground transportation from Calgary airport to Banff (and Lake Louise ). These shuttles depart almost hourly. A private land transfer or car rental can also be arranged by calling our Vacation Planners .