Sweetwater Heli Launches as California's Only Heli-Skiing Operation

BRIDGEPORT, Calif., Nov. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sweetwater Heli today announced the launch of California's only heli-skiing operation, with exclusive, small-group tours beginning January 30, 2026. Skiers and riders will have access to over 180,000 acres of new terrain in the Sweetwater Mountains.

Combining Sweetwater Heli's standards of safety, precision, and adventure with the unmistakable California ski culture, the operation represents a milestone for the state — and a long-awaited opportunity for those seeking world-class heli-skiing closer to home.

For the ultimate convenience, Sweetwater Heli provides tailored heli-ski gear delivered to your mountain home or boutique hotel and seamless helicopter transfers within the Mammoth and Tahoe/Reno area.

California's Only Heli-Skiing Operation

Based out of Bridgeport, CA, Sweetwater Heli operates within a short distance of Mammoth and Lake Tahoe, offering fast access to high-alpine terrain, expert guides, and professional pilots. Each day is built around small groups, efficient flight rotations, and meticulous avalanche forecasting — ensuring maximum vertical with uncompromising safety.

"I'm incredibly excited to introduce a premium heli-ski experience to California. Having the opportunity for world-class heli-skiing right in our backyard is truly priceless and long overdue. Our team's love for California and everything it offers makes this especially significant," said Brian Kirschenmann, Co-Founder of Sweetwater Heli.

A New Chapter for California Skiers

"Waking up in Mammoth, skiing untouched powder with your friends in the Sweetwater Mountains, and being back in time for après…Sweetwater Heli just created the ultimate California ski day," said Hilary Roache, Ski Instructor, Mammoth Mountain

"Heli-skiing in our own backyard has been the ultimate dream. Sweetwater just made that dream a reality. I'm hyped to explore this terrain," said Tim Humphreys, Tahoe-based Professional Snowboarder

Northern California is considered one of the main meccas for skiing and riding in the country. A heli-ski operation in this region is a perfect opportunity to align with the locals' love for the mountains and snow.

Details & Booking

• Launch Date: January 30, 2026
   
• Location: Bridgeport, CA — servicing the Sweetwater Mountains
   
• Price: From $1,800 per day (group rates and packages available)
   
• Booking: www.sweetwater-heli.com

Sweetwater Heli is now accepting reservations for the 2026 season. Guests can book single or multi-day experiences, with all operations led by experienced certified guides and pilots trained to Sweetwater Heli's safety standards.

Sweetwater Heli - Company Fact Sheet

• Company Name: Sweetwater Heli
• Website: sweetwater-heli.com
• Launch Date: Booking open today; tours beginning January 30th, 2026
• Location: Bridgeport, CA, serving the Lake Tahoe and Mammoth areas
• Tenure: 180,000+ acres of exclusive terrain in the Sweetwater Mountains
  • Range spans 184,320 acres, approximately 288 sq. miles
  • The highest peak in the range is Mount Patterson with an elevation of 11,673 ft.
  • Mount Patterson is also a volcano.
  • 6 peaks in the Sweetwater Mountains are above 10,000 ft.
  • The range is located mostly within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
• Aircraft: AS350B-3 ASTAR
• Guest Experience:
  • Guide-to-Guest Ratio (e.g., "1:4")
  • Group Size (e.g., "Intimate groups of 4")
  • Lunch Provided from locally owned family restaurant
  • 6-8 Ski Runs
• Key Offerings:
  • Private Packages
  • Single Seat Packages
  • Private Heli Transport from Reno, Mammoth, & Lake Tahoe regions as an optional add on
• The Why:
  • Most of team, ownership to guides, have close ties to California
  • All are avid members of local CA ski communities
  • Wanted to bring heli-skiing to our backyard
• Founder:
  • Brian Kirschenmann, Co-Founder
• Safety:
  • Experienced Certified Guides
  • Comprehensive Trainings in Companion Rescue & Helicopter Safety
  • Use of Avalanche safety gear

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SOURCE Sweetwater Heli