Heli Acquires Mustang Powder: A New Era for Backcountry Skiing

Heli, the Aspen-based adventure travel company renowned for curating bespoke heli-skiing and backcountry experiences, today announced its acquisition of Mustang Powder, a premier cat-skiing operation located in the Monashee Mountains of British Columbia. This strategic move marks a significant expansion for Heli, solidifying its position as a leading force in the global adventure travel market.

The acquisition brings together two highly respected names in the snow sports industry. Heli, known for its extensive network of heli-skiing destinations worldwide and its focus on personalized, high-end adventures, will now integrate Mustang Powder's well-established cat-skiing business. Mustang Powder has built a stellar reputation over decades, offering unparalleled access to vast, snow-laden terrain and a loyal clientele drawn to its deep powder and remote, lodge-based experiences.

Founded in 2004 by Nick and Ali Holmes-Smith, Mustang Powder has built a reputation for deep snow, steep terrain, and a cozy lodge atmosphere that draws expert skiers from around the world. With over 32,000 acres of skiable terrain and 443 kilometers of snowcat roads, the operation offers a rugged yet refined experience, including gourmet dining and a wine list boasting over 125 selections.

Heli, led by co-founders Andy Culp and Brock Strasbourger, has been steadily expanding its footprint in the adventure travel space. This marks the company’s third major acquisition, following purchases of Great Canadian Heli-Skiing in 2022 and Silverton Mountain in Colorado in 20233. Their goal: to consolidate the fragmented market of high-end adventure travel while preserving the unique character of each destination.

“We’re here to protect what makes Mustang special,” said Strasbourger, emphasizing that the lodge’s expert-focused programs and tight-knit culture will remain intact. Enhancements like a new Sonos sound system, WiFi-controlled sauna heaters, and expanded glading are planned, but the heart of Mustang Powder—its terrain and staff—will stay the same2.

Founder Nick Holmes-Smith, who will remain in a transitional role for the next year, expressed confidence in the new owners. “They’re young, enthusiastic, and passionate skiers. Right from the start, I felt it was a good fit,” he said.

Industry analysts view this acquisition as a shrewd move by Heli, enabling them to capture a larger share of the growing adventure travel market. Cat-skiing, while offering similar deep-snow thrills to heli-skiing, often comes at a more accessible price point and can be less weather-dependent, appealing to a wider range of snow enthusiasts. The integration of Mustang Powder's operations is expected to create synergies, enhancing booking capabilities, operational efficiencies, and marketing reach for both brands.

Details of the acquisition were not immediately disclosed, but sources close to the deal indicate that Mustang Powder will continue to operate under its established brand, leveraging Heli's extensive resources and global reach. The existing Mustang Powder team, including its experienced guides and lodge staff, is expected to remain in place, ensuring a seamless transition and the continuation of the high-quality service its guests have come to expect.

This move by Heli underscores a broader trend in the adventure travel sector, where companies are increasingly looking to consolidate and offer comprehensive, multi-faceted experiences. For backcountry enthusiasts, the combined strength of Heli and Mustang Powder promises an even more diverse and exciting array of options for chasing the ultimate powder turns in some of the world's most spectacular mountain environments.