In the majestic alpines of the Kootenays, our Powder Highway backcountry lodges are primely positioned to deliver unparalleled snowy adventures with epic powder ski touring, heli and cat experiences. And when summer arrives, they transform into a hub for a multitude of self-propelled experiences.
Step into the wild from the time you begin your journey from trailhead until you reach the lodge, with catered experiences. Then it’s time to conquer the trails at your own pace.
100% SELF-PROPELLED
Bound for Assiniboine Lodge*, your adventure begins at any of the three trailheads located in Alberta. Be ready for an invigorating 26 to 30-km trek; a rewarding challenge indeed. Assiniboine is the first backcountry ski lodge in the Canadian Rockies; and, the park’s iconic peak Mount Assiniboine, is known as the ‘Matterhorn of Canada’.
Perched at 2,163-m, the Diana Lake Lodge & Teahouse’s network of over 80-km of trails is waiting to be explored. Make your own path through the wild or fuel the adventurer in you alongside their experienced guides. Stay at the lodge, bunkhouse or camp-spot or trek to the Teahouse (6.5-km one-way, moderate) for a full day excursion.
Embark on an 8.2-km hike to reach the majestic Ice Creek Lodge located in the stunning Selkirk Mountains. Their comprehensive summer programs include thrilling three-day guided hikes, exciting paddle-board fun, and countless other adventures.
Mount Carlyle Backcountry Lodge* located in the Kokanee Range of the Selkirk Mountains, sits at a breathtaking 2,200-m. Get ready to explore their extensive 20-km network of intermediate to advanced trails. Legendary expert Brian Cross, the owner, is a Kootenay celebrity known for his knowledge of the area and his ability to guide guests on their backcountry adventures.
Venture with them on a spectacular guided hike in the majestic Canadian Rockies to reach the family-friendly Talus Lodge. You’ll traversing a 7-km trail with a triumphant 700-meter elevation gain, to reach this remote, high-alpine lodge. Talus Lodge is a haven for nature viewing and wildlife observing, allowing guests to connect with the surrounding Rocky Mountains and their inhabitants.
Your adventure spirit awaits at Valkyr Lodge*. Nestled in the stunning alpine 2,210-m in an alpine basin, right on the western slopes of Naumulten Mountain, which belong to the captivating Valkyr Range of the Selkirk Mountains. For experienced hikers, the Valkyr Traverse offers a challenging 7-day hike between the three Valkyr lodges.
*These lodges also offer porter-services and/or helicopter transfers. With Valkyr Adventure’s 7-Day Hut-to-Hut Valkyr Traverse package they included helicopter transfer to/from your lodging (Outpost & Lodge).
HELI TRANSFERS
Hikers and mountain bikers chose these lodges which offer self-catering and catering opportunities at high altitudes. Not only can you revel in the breathtaking trails, but each lodge comes with an exceptional offer – helicopter transfers right to your door.
Situated on the Yoho National Park boundary, Amiskwi Lodge is truly remote and off-the-beaten-path experience. The lodge’s high altitude provides stunning vista views of the Wapta Icefields, the Presidents, Howes Pass and the Freshfield Icefields.
Founded in 1978 by Hans Gmoser and Bill Putman, Battle Abbey Backcountry Lodge, in the Selkirk Mountains, was a pioneering effort in helicopter skiing and backcountry lodge experiences. With its traditional European stone and post-and-beam construction (2,200-m), it blends old-world mountain charm with modern comforts.
Campbell Icefield Chalet in the Canadian Rockies is run by experienced individuals who have a passion for the mountains and the backcountry lifestyle. The summer months bring a carpet of wildflowers to the alpine meadows, creating a vibrant and beautiful landscape.
Golden Alpine Holidays, in the Esplanade Range of the northern Selkirk Mountains, offers the Super Trekker and Meadow & Vista in summer. Trek from lodge to lodge as the stunning vistas unfold before you. Not to mention, your gear and meals are conveniently heli-dropped.
Summer at Icefall Lodge, in the Canadian Rockies, is a time for hiking and glacier trekking. The guided glacier treks and mountaineering courses are available, allowing guests to learn about glacier dynamics and safety while exploring these majestic features.
Family-run Mistaya Lodge, in the Canadian Rockies, is committed to eco-friendly practices, using solar and micro-hydro energy to power their off-grid facilities. Their on-site hiking guides provide routes for exhilarating non-technical ascents. Rise to the challenge with the single day climbs, spanning an impressive 792-m. to 1,036-m vertical.
Step into wilderness at Purcell Mountain Lodge. Tackle the unbeaten paths with their guided and self-guided hiking options and discover the soul-stirring beauty of the pristine natural environment.
Selkirk Mountain Experience at the Durrand Glacier Chalet enables guests to immerse themselves in the unspoiled splendour of snowy peaks, glistening waterfalls, and serene lakes. And let’s not forget, you’ll be sharing these breathtaking wonders with over 100 wildflower species and an array of wildlife.
SHUTTLE TRANSFERS
From the historic Lake O’Hara Lodge, guests are introduced to breathtaking alpine scenics. With crystalline sparkling lakes, vertical limestone cliffs, and wildlife that adorns the landscape – the vast backcountry extends in every direction, beckoning exploration. Spend your days immersed in outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, or simply unwinding amidst the natural wonder.
HELI HIKE AND MOUNTAIN BIKE
Leverage the thrill of a helicopter ride as your gateway to the trailhead or high-alpine. These backcountry lodges provide unparalleled hiking or mountain biking adventures that are truly out of this world!
At CMH Bobbie Burns, in the Purcell Mountain south of Golden, conquer the granite cliffs of Mount Nimbus via Ferrata. And enjoy their heli-accessed hiking program – where guests and their expert guides go directly into the high regions, unveiling boundless alpine vistas that extending to the horizon.
The Purcell’s historic CMH Bugaboo Lodge (northeast of Radium Hot Springs), is the crowning jewel in the Bugaboo spires. Here, you have a front-row seat to some of North America’s most breathtaking vistas. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of stark granite giants, expansive ice fields, and enchanting glacial lakes. Their heli-hiking expeditions tread high above profound valleys – promising days filled with marvel and awe!
CMH’s lodge-to-lodge experience includes a three night stay at both, Bobbie Burns & Bugaboos lodges. Enabling to you to unravel the unique charm of two distinct lodges and landscapes.
Boasting 3,585 to 4,572 vertical metres inclusive of their adventurous helicopter lap with an option for more. Retallack Lodge in the Selkirks (located between Kaslo & New Denver), take pride in offering one of the world’s longest mountain bike downhill tracks, coming in at 1,829 vertical metres. With an array of heli trails available, you find one to match your ability and riding style.
ACCESSIBLE BY VEHICLE
During the summer season, these secluded lodges can be accessed by your own vehicle. They provide a diverse range of outdoor activities and are also ideal for hosting group events including corporate gatherings and weddings.
Nature has beautifully prepared the ideal backdrop for your matrimonial ceremony or corporate retreat at Gostlin Keefer Lake Lodge in the Monashees (near Cherryville). Their sophisticated nuances and accents into this naturally remarkable setting, ensuring your special day or event will be a memorable experience.
Discover a world of adventure in the 2,833-hectures of untouched wilderness; boasting over 100-km of beautifully maintained trails just waiting to be explored in the Canadian Rockies at Island Lake Lodge in Fernie. Their mountain biking trails are designed as an up and down trail for various ability levels including novice and young riders. Other experiences include, hiking (old growth forest to wildflower alpine to mountain peaks), canoeing on Island Lake, spa treatments at the lodge and dining with menu items using the finest local/regional ingredients.
Nipika Mountain Resort is an eco-conscious lodge/cabin property in the Canadian Rockies. They welcome pets and borders the stunning Kootenay National Park (and are a short 30-minute drive from Radium Hot Springs). They offer nine traditional log cabin accommodations, capable of hosting 4 to 13 guests (including an accessible cabin). Embrace the spirit of adventure with their extensive trail network within the Cross River Canyon Recreation Site, for mountain biking, hiking, and trail running (plus other activities including guided paddle adventures and disc golf).
Sol Mountain Lodge’s ultimate experience includes both panoramic alpine hiking and thrilling single-track mountain biking. Nestled in the majestic Monashee Mountains, this is an ideal venue for retreats, milestone celebrations, or simple family reunions – as they can accommodate up to 14 guests with an option for private rooms. Lodge takeovers include the service of their proficient staff and their esteemed chef team.
Nestled in the Selkirk mountains and just north of Valhalla Provincial Park (near New Denver), Valhalla Mountain Touring encompasses an unprecedented 7,689-hectares of exquisite natural diversity. This location is a remarkable blend of striking alpine landscapes, high altitude lakes, verdant ridgelines, dense forests, and wildflower strewn meadows. The lodge is designed with comfort and privacy in mind, boasting 7 private rooms available for booking.
The diverse and refreshing experiences that White Grizzly Lodge offers are tailor-made for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Their offerings include expert-led hikes capturing awe-inspiring sceneries, exhilarating gravel biking explorations, and serenity-infused trail running in the untouched forests. Add a hint of adrenaline to your journey with white-water rafting, encounter the majestic grizzlies up-close in their natural environment, or immerse yourself in the calming rhythm of fly fishing in the crystal-clear rivers.
