Heli-Biking BC’s Northern Sunshine Coast: An Alpine Adventure Awaits

Imagine dropping into a pristine alpine cirque, an amphitheatre-like valley formed by glacial erosion at 1,750 metres (5,740 feet), surrounded by jagged peaks, with no one else in sight - just you, your bike, and the largest granite slabs in the world. We put together an alpine mountain bike trip last August via helicopter into the heart of BC’s Coast Mountains near Powell River on the Northern Sunshine Coast. Two pro riders, Mark Matthews and Ollie Lowthorpe, were joined by FPV drone pilot Anderson Ta, photographer Mathew Wanbon, and host Ian Middleton for a 5-day backcountry adventure that showcased BC’s newest multi-day heli-assisted bike guiding tenure. From epic descents to moonlit dinners at base camp next to a glistening glacial tarn, this trip was a masterclass in disconnecting and granite slab riding escapades. Here’s a brief snapshot of what you can experience joining one of Flow State Guiding’s heli-bike adventures, immersed in this stunning alpine paradise.

Getting There: A Scenic Start from Squamish, Vancouver Island, or Powell River

Most of our crew kicked off the journey from Vancouver Island, a quick ferry ride from the Comox Valley across the Strait of Georgia. We rendezvoused in Powell River on the Northern Sunshine Coast - a hidden gem with an amazing and growing network of enduro and downhill trails, along with shuttle services, bike coaching, and of course, world-class cuisine and seaside accommodation - before hopping into helicopters for two breathtaking 20-minute flights to base camp. The views alone, sweeping over coastal forests, lakes, adjacent peaks and up into the Coast Mountain range, are a jaw-dropping introduction to what is in store for the trip. For riders flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and heading toward Whistler or Squamish, heli departures from Squamish are the fastest and most popular route into this alpine playground. Once your bike is dialed - fresh rubber, bled brakes, new pads - and you're craving big lines and untouched terrain, your lift to the high country is just a short flight away.

Base Camp Bliss: Luxury Meets Wilderness

Landing at base camp feels like stepping into a dream. At 1,750 metres (5,740 feet), our setup included cotton canvas dome tents with 360-degree windows, comfy cots, a pellet stove for cozy nights, and an outdoor kitchen pumping out fresh, locally sourced meals—think grilled steaks and roasted veggies. We even christened a new sauna and shower, perfect for unwinding and recounting the day's adventures on the slabs. A glacial alpine tarn right next to camp is a true bonus, ideal for a refreshing mid-day dip or a moonlit cold plunge, post sauna, under a sky full of stars. For guests, this is glamping at its finest - no need to rough it when you’ve got hot showers and a sauna in the backcountry. The panoramic views of near-infinite peaks and glaciers is dizzying, combined with a nightly show as the sun sets. The sky regularly lights up, fading from brilliant blue to hues of orange, purple and red, finally transitioning to a pink alpenglow which is reflected on the still glacial lake beside camp. With no light pollution, our Milky Way star dust is mesmerizing to watch alongside Mars, Saturn, Jupiter and Neptune, high above the valleys below.

Mountain Biking in this Granite Playground

The riding here is unreal. Upon arrival, we eased in with a tour of camp and all its amenities - a hand-built cedar bathroom, outdoor kitchen, shower, sauna, spacious shelters with a mesmerizing stove and a lounging area, coupled with a gas fire pit under the big open skies. Upon storing our belongings in our bedside cupboards, a tour of the next door granite paradise commenced with “magic hour” sessions on the west-facing Sunset Slabs, where golden light bathes endless granite. Over the next few days, we tackled massive ridgelines with views of Mt. Waddington and the Salish Sea, linking playful lines and sniper descents for pro riders Mark Matthews and Ollie Lowthorpe to shred while drones buzzed overhead. Day 3 was a beast—10 kilometres (6 miles) of traversing and climbing 300 metres (984 feet) to a southern bowl, followed by a long loop back to camp. The final day’s 200-metre (656-foot) vertical slab, just 800 metres (2,625 feet) from the tarn, was the perfect send-off. Every line feels fresh, with options to return season after season.

Where to Eat, Sleep, and Explore, Pre or Post-trip

While the heli-trip is all-inclusive, you’ll want to fuel up before and after. Here are five spots to check out on the Northern Sunshine Coast:

1. The Food:
   1. The Shinglemill Pub & Bistro - Following your group’s 3-5 day trip in the backcountry, unwind at the far end of Powell Lake, staring at the distant mountains you’ve just explored on two wheels, with fish and chips and a local craft beer.
   2. Costa Del Sol Latin Cuisine - Our favourite ocean view Mexican restaurant to wrap up your Mt. Mahony laps or make plans for your travels or riding day
   3. Thaidal Zone Restaurant - Directly across from the ferry, we often wrap up our longer 5 day trips with take out with authentic Thai food (their hearty Pad Thai will fill the most ravenous rider)
   4. Nancy’s Bakery (Lund) - Grab a cinnamon bun or hearty sandwich in this quaint seaside village, 30 minutes North of Powell River.
2. The Old Courthouse Inn - Located in the Historic Townsite area, this upscale B&B is steeped in local history, with plenty of bike storage. The Patricia Theatre, Canada’s longest continuous running movie theatre, is next door along with the Townsite Public Market and Townsite Brewery.
3. Mt. Mahony bike trails - Ride from the nearby Inland Lake Park campground, or line up a shuttle from town, to check out Powell River’s gem of fast, steep loam. Looking to improve your skills on dirt or rock? Be sure to book a custom coaching session with Mahony Bike Co.
4. Taws Bike Garage - After fresh brake pads, tires or a tune up following your slab adventure? Swing by this center-of-town bike shop with a great team of hardworking mechanics, holding all the local trail beta. They also sell Powell River’s local Ride Free Apparel.
5. Powell River’s Townsite Brewing is must for a celebratory pint—try one of their IPAs or other tasty brews.

Why You’ll Want to Come Back

This trip isn’t just a ride, it’s an escape. Flying out, with your bike strapped to the heli-rack and the granite expanse fading below, you’ll already be plotting your return. The Northern Sunshine Coast blends world-class terrain with serene beauty, from the roar of the pellet stove to the silence of a starry night. Whether you’re a pro like Mark Matthews or a seasoned rider craving something new, BC’s heli-biking delivers. Book your group trip, pack your gear, and get ready to ride into the heart of the Coast Mountains - you won’t find this anywhere else!