This is one of the most common questions and concerns. If you have dreamed of heli skiing and you're reading this article you are almost certainly have enough ability as long as you do reasonable trip preparation in terms of fitness and warm up ski days.

Just to dispel one common myth out there...you will NEVER find yourself jumping out of the helicopter to start your run. This only happened in the ski films from the 80's. Likewise, you will not find yourself being asked to ski a near vertical wall of snow with multiple 30 foot drops.

But, you will certainly find yourself skiing or boarding miles of untracked powder. If the thought of this gets your body pumped, then you are certainly mentally equipped to handle heli skiing.

To enjoy heli skiing you should be a strong intermediate and above skier or snowboarding. Try asking yourself: Have you spent significant time on your skis or snowboard? Can you ski down a black run at your local hill? Do you have experience in deep powder? If the answer the above is 'yes' then it's time to think about 'what is the right heli ski operation for me?' as well as how to prepare for your heli ski trip.

Don't give up hope if you answered 'no' to some of the above questions. There are now specific heli ski preparation programs, some at nearby resorts as well as custom instruction to help get you ready for a heli ski journey. You will need to give yourself greater time at local resorts to find your ski legs and pick up a few new skills. Talk to your heli ski agent about potential itineraries to suit your needs.

A few tips on picking the right heli ski operation

Look for small group heli skiing (6 or less clients per group)

• There is recent trend away from the traditional Bell 10 man helicopters. Operations that fly in smaller newer helicopters are better able to match the abilities of the group. This is critical to maximizing enjoyment of your day whether you are an intermediate or expert.

Bring your own group

• With 4 to 5 other mates of similar abilities, not only will you be able to retell your stories for years to come, but you will have a guide to yourself and have greater ability to choose the pace and terrain the best suits.

Seek the most reputable and safest operations

• Most are excellent, but some operate to higher standards than others. In Canada (home to 95% of the worlds heli skiing) it is worthwhile considering whether the operation is a full member of Helicat Canada. This is a Canadian industry body with the highest operational and safety industry standards set in the world.

Smaller operations for personalised service

• It is probably best to use an operation that is of reasonable size that it runs multiple groups consistently throughout the season. The largest operations have approximately 50 guests at any one time, while more boutique operations have up to 24 guests. While there is often no difference in price, the smaller size allows a more personalized service as well as providing a better opportunity to get to know other guests and staff.

Is the terrain and style right for you

• Although almost all heli ski operations have a variety or terrain to suite all ski abilities some are better suited to experts, or intermediates, than others. Be honest about your ability and what you are looking for when you're talking to your agent or prospective heli ski resort.

Check out our Ski Holidays section.

Seven Descents offer a range of heli and cat skiing trips with exclusive promotions. Consultants provide heli ski information and advise best destinations for you. Visit www.sevendescents.com.au to see all their heli and cat skiing destinations.