How to Prepare for a Helicopter Elopement: Essential Tips

Your Guide to Preparing for an Adventure Elopement by Helicopter

by Pilot George Coiner

Wondering how to prepare for a helicopter elopement? Look no further! This handy guide will lay out everything you need to know!

With helicopter elopements becoming more and more popular, destinations like alpine lakes and mountain vistas are increasingly sought after. Lucky for us, many of these venues are available right in our own Cascade backyard! Along with the rugged topography of the Pacific Northwest, or locally known as Pacific “Northwet”, is our ever-changing mountain weather.  

Though we do not fly when there is rough or cloudy weather, we believe it is always best to proactively prepare yourself for unexpected inclement weather.

Many in western Washington argue that we have two seasons: rain and sun. The saying “if you don’t like whatever is currently happening, wait another 15 minutes” rings very true for Washington weather.  As quickly as the sun can appear, the clouds, wet mist, winds, and rain can move overhead. These conditions can quickly drop temperatures 30-40+ degrees Fahrenheit, even during the sunny season.  

To maximize your comfort and happiness, be prepared for the mountain weather with the preparation items listed below.  All items, while easily stored on board our aircraft, are also lightweight and simple to pack!

Layers

Bring a simple 3-layer combination that allows for very comfortable flexibility: 

1) Silk, polypropylene, or smart wool base layer against skin.

2) A middle “air trap” layer like fleece, pile, or mid-layer smart wool.

3) A light outer shell that is rain/moisture/wind proof. Having this outer layer, believe it or not, even though very thin, cuts the wind and provides the rest of your cozy system to be well insulated.  

We cannot stress enough that the higher quality outer layer you bring, the better your entire system will be, keeping you warm against anything that the mountain can throw at you! For example, on a climbing expedition to the former Soviet Union, I utilized a layer system similar to the 3-layer system above (with only one more “medium-weight goose down” layer). It kept me feeling super warm at the top of Peak Lenin at 23,500 feet during a snowstorm!

Suggestions – Layers 1 & 2:  Icebreaker: Merlino Wool Smart Products

Layer 3:  Mountain Hardware, Arc’teryx, Patagonia, or REI Gore-tex2 shells

Footwear

In late April through mid-October, La Niña (increased rainfall) or El Niño (drier northern US weather) patterns dictate whether you need to wear “light hikers” or not. 

From mid-October thru mid April, you should be prepared to plan for cold feet. Insulated boots or waterproof boots with warm socks are recommended. Gaiters are very useful if you’re anticipating walking on snowy trails. 

A good rule of thumb for footwear and flying in the mountains is to plan for the worst. Ask yourself, “If I had to walk five miles in possible deep snow with uneven surfaces, what shoes would I want on?”

If your elopement plan includes longer hiking or rock climbing elements, more specific footwear with ankle protection and friction/traction soles is recommended.   

Though it’s not likely you will be exposed to this situation (unless purposefully, if your elopement includes cross-country skiing or back-country touring), it is always best to prepare for the worst when dealing with PNW winter!

Body Protection

Skin – Broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ for your face and exposed skin is adequate for most outdoor environmental conditions. Use SPF 50 or higher for elopements in snowy terrain.

Suggestions:  Neutrogena, Banana Boat, CeraVe

For extended trips planning over a few hours in the snow, you may want to bring a small tube of Zinc Oxide for the nose/forehead and Blistex, Chapstick, Carmex, or Jack Black balm for the lips. 

Eyes – Bring Sunglasses. On bright days, when moving over snow, the amount of light reflected is high! A good pair of UV protection sunglasses will eliminate any potential eye damage issues. Not to mention, they add the “coolness factor” for photographs.  

Proactive planning for mountain weather will ensure that your elopement experience is safe and stress-free!

If you have any other questions about how to prepare for your helicopter elopement, make sure to reach out and ask!