Telluride Live

About

Telluride Helitrax flies advanced skiers and snowboarders into the San Juan backcountry by helicopter. Under a Forest Service special use permit it uses more than 200 square miles of terrain around Telluride, almost all above tree line, from about 10,000 to 13,500 feet. A standard day is six guided runs, about 10,000 to 14,000 vertical feet, in groups of four guests to one guide. Most runs compare to the resort's double blue and single black runs.

Days usually start with an 8:30 a.m. meeting and safety briefing at its headquarters outside the south (spa) entrance of the Peaks Resort in Mountain Village. Powder skis or a snowboard, poles, an avalanche transceiver and airbag pack, lunch and snacks are included. It also runs guided backcountry ski tours and scenic flights.

History

Four local ski partners started Helitrax in 1982, and it is still family owned.

When to go

The season usually runs from around the December holidays to early April, once there's enough snow. The most popular stretch is the last two weeks of February through the first three weeks of March, and January is usually the quietest month. Book as early as you can.

Good to know

You should link turns confidently on black ungroomed runs and in powder, and be fit enough for six runs at high altitude. There's no age limit, but guests under 16 need an adult guardian. Helmets are required, so bring your own. The average weight across a group of four should be 185 pounds.

A 20% deposit is taken when your booking is approved. Trips canceled for weather are refunded in full.

Price

• Daily heli-ski day, per person$1,975
• Extra run, per person (3 guest minimum)$275

Boots, ski clothing and tips are not included. Private custom tours are priced by flight hour.

Prices checked November 2026 on the website of Telluride Helitrax. They can change, so check before you go.

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