Alterra to purchase Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing

Photo: Alterra Mountain Company

The company will become Alterra's 18th destination operation, and the second heli-skiing company in its portfolio

DENVER — Alterra Mountain Company announced its intention to purchase Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing today.

The Canadian company, based in Blue River, British Columbia, was established in 1970 by Mike Wiegele, an Austrian ski pioneer.

Wiegele Helicopter Skiing operates in 1.5 million acres of ski terrain, in the Cariboo, Monashee and Rocky Mountain ranges where snow accumulations of 30 feet or more is typical. The company’s operation consists of 22 log chalets; a 20,000-square-foot main lodge, the Albreda Lodge; and a full-service sports shop.

The transaction is slated to close in late 2023, subject to certain conditions and regulatory approvals.

“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 MWHS.

MWHS would be the second heli-skiing company in Alterra’s portfolio, joining CMH Heli-Skiing and Summer Adventures, also located in in British Columbia.

“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.”

According to a press release from Alterra, more details on the transaction will be released once it is complete.