In big news from the US today, Alterra Mountain Company (owners of Ikon Pass) have announced an intention to acquire Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing in Blue River, British Columbia.
Alterra Mountain Company already own the world’s first (and largest) commercial heli skiing operation, Canadian Mountain Holidays (CMH) and will add Canada’s “other” famous heli ski operation to their mix.
Established in 1970, Mike Wiegele Heli Skiing is located in the heart of the magnificent Cariboo, Monashee, and Rocky Mountains ranges. This unique area of British Columbia is renowned as one of the world’s most productive regions for high-quality, reliable powder snow.
The 1.5-million-acre ski terrain and its 1,000 peaks offer varied terrain that appeals to all levels of snow enthusiasts. The operation consists of 22 handcrafted log chalets, a 20,000-square-foot main lodge, the exclusive Albreda Lodge, and a full-service sports shop.
The operation lies within the territory of the Simpcw First Nation and Alterra Mountain Company intends to consult and work with the Nation throughout the ownership process.
“Mike Wiegele was a pioneer in the heli-ski world, and we are excited to add another premier heli-skiing operation to the Alterra family,” said Jared Smith, President & CEO of Alterra Mountain Company.
“In many ways, Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing helped set the standard for extraordinary guest and employee experiences that prioritized safety and quality, which directly aligns with our values at Alterra.”
The storied heli-skiing operation is the brainchild of Mike Wiegele, a ski-obsessed Austrian who translated a lifetime of innovation into a legendary reputation. He became one of the most influential ski pioneers in Canada.
The late Mike Weigele, a ski obsessed Austrian who became one of the most influential ski pioneers in Canada, set the standard for avalanche safety, influenced groundbreaking changes in ski technology, and inspired future generations of skiers, snowboarders, and guides.
“Mike and I were always committed to an enduring future for the business. A future that would honor our commitments to mountain safety and stewardship, to an exceptional powder skiing experience, to our committed guides and staff, and to the relationships we have formed with partners and guests from around the world. The sale to Alterra ensures MWHS will continue to be one of the world’s most unique powder skiing experiences for the next 50 years,” said Bonnie Wiegele, owner of Mike Wiegele Heli-Skiing.
The transaction is expected to close in late 2023 and is subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. More details will be released once the transaction has been completed.
