Photo
Courtesy of Wells Gray Chalets & Wilderness Adventures
British Columbia
is a province built on a tradition of exploration and discovery. And for
more than 100 years, backcountry lodges have been a big part of this tradition.
Long
before there were ski resorts in Canada, before there were even
ski lifts, there were those with a strong desire to connect with
nature and experience the solitude and tranquillity of BC's majestic
mountains.
It
all started back in the late 1800's when the Canadian Pacific Railway
hired mountain guides from Europe to lead clients on skiing expeditions
in the mountains of the Selkirk Range.
In
1928, Mt. Assiniboine Lodge opened its doors. It was the first lodge
in British Columbia dedicated to hiking and backcountry skiing.
Photo
Courtesy of Christoph Dietzfelbinger, Burnie Glacier Chalet
Today,
there are more 25 wilderness lodges around the province, built from
the ground up by pioneering spirits who are passionate about the
outdoors and who live to share their passion with others.
Take
part in a whole new world of adventure and inspiration. The silence
and purity of exploring BC's virtually unlimited backcountry terrain
is a transformational experience. And the friendship, great physical
exercise and the exhilaration of backcountry skiing, mountaineering
and hiking have made these activities some of the fastest growing
sports in North America.
And
with good reason. The diversity of terrain, the untouched wilderness,
spectacular scenery, not to mention the bountiful supply of powder
in winter have made British Columbia's mountains world famous. And
with more than 25 backcountry ski lodges and providers to choose
from, you are guaranteed to find one perfect for you.
These
BC Adventure Network members invite you to discover BC's incredible
Backcountry Ski Lodges:
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
Eagle's Nest Resort: Beauty and comfort in the wilderness. Elegant suites or cozy log cabins. Lakeside dining room, breathtaking views, hiking and birdwatching, and the natural splendor of the area. more
Photo
Courtesy of Backcountry Snowcats
Most
of the backcountry lodges are open year round and are accessed by
helicopter, while some are accessible by snowmobile, snowcat, or
even by ski or hike-in. Some of them are rustic cabins heated by
wood stoves with dorm-style accommodation, and some have central
heating, indoor plumbing, and private bedrooms. At some you will
be required to bring your own bedding, and at others you will have
a private room with a fluffy down duvet and flannel sheets. The
key is to check out what is available at each lodge, and then find
the one that best suits your preferences and budget.
The
terrain also varies from lodge to lodge, and each lodge has its
own special attraction. Some lodges are geared to experienced backcountry
travellers who are looking for steep skiing on big rugged mountains
and challenging mountaineering opportunities in the summer. Other
lodges offer long fall line cruisers and gentle ski touring across
sub-alpine meadows in the winter and easy to moderate alpine hikes
in the summer. All of the lodges have sub-alpine tree skiing for
those overcast and snowy winter days. Most have diverse terrain
featuring glaciers and high alpine bowls that will provide amazing
ski opportunities for a range of ability levels, and some even offer
additional activities like snowshoeing and even cross-country skiing
along groomed and track-set trails. In addition, many of British
Columbia's backcountry ski operators also offer specialty programs
with instruction in nature photography, creative writing, drawing
& painting, holistic wellness and much more.
Photo
Courtesy of Christoph Dietzfelbinger, Burnie Glacier Chalet
No
matter the lodge or the season, one thing that is consistent is
the quality of the food. Lodge operators know that after a physically
rigorous day of activity in the fresh mountain air, the best way
to your heart is through your stomach. All of the lodges employ
phenomenal cooks; some even have papered Chefs who delight in preparing
intricate gastronomic feasts. Regardless of the lodge, rest assured
that the food is always good and there is always lots of it.
Another
thing that all BC's backcountry ski lodges and providers have in
common is their commitment to safety. They all offer a professional
guiding service, the majority employing guides certified by the
Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (A.C.M.G.), the highest
standard of certification available in Canada. In addition to being
trained in customer service and nature interpretation, all guides
are trained in first aid, avalanche safety, snow stability evaluation,
and emergency response. Backcountry recreation, by its very definition,
takes place in uncontrolled environments. It is essential to treat
the backcountry with respect, and safety is the number one priority
of all backcountry lodge operators. Your professional guide knows
the lodge's terrain and snow pack intimately; they can help you
find the best skiing in the winter and the best hiking in the summer.
Your happiness, satisfaction and safety are their business.
Photo
Courtesy of Wells Gray Chalets & Wilderness Adventures
BC's
backcountry offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Mother
Nature in all her glory. Backcountry skiing is the purest form of
skiing and it is a more environmentally sound and much less expensive
way of experiencing the backcountry than the mechanized approach.
After the snow melts, there is nothing like heading out in the summer
to hike along a high alpine ridgeline or through a field bursting
with brightly coloured wildflowers to make you appreciate the natural
wonder of the mountains. And with so many lodges and operators to
choose from, you are guaranteed to find one to suit your needs,
your schedule, and your budget.
So
when you are thinking of your next outdoor vacation, think British
Columbia. Think soulful peaks, bottomless powder, tranquil meadows,
pristine beauty, cosy lodging and friendly BC hospitality. Backcountry
ski lodges and operators in British Columbia … where the tradition
continues.
Backcountry,
skiing, ski hills, ski resorts, ski lodges & ski destinations
in British Columbia, Canada
