We invite you to explore the Birthplace of Adventure through the eyes of two locals whose lives are deeply intertwined with nature and the land. Jasmin Caton, is the proud owner of a backcountry lodge in the Selkirk Mountains near Hills/New Denver, offering guests unforgettable hiking and ski touring adventures across pristine, rugged terrain.

While Logan Dow hails from an Indigenous family and tends a serene retreat tucked on 10-hectares at the base of Boulder Mountain, just minutes from Revelstoke, where heritage and wilderness coexist in harmony. Together, they embody the spirit of the Kootenays – where tradition, adventure, and a profound connection to nature comes alive.

JASMIN CATON

Jasmin, daughter of Valhalla Mountain Touring founders Dale Caton and Lynda Morin, grew up exploring the Selkirk Mountains on foot, bike, and skis long before her dad opened the lodge in 1993. Guided by her parents, she developed a deep respect for the land, which now shapes her role managing the backcountry lodge near New Denver/Hills, BC. 

Her love for the mountains took hold early as she sought mentorship from experienced guides at Valhalla Mountain Touring. During a winter break from university, she completed her first professional avalanche course and worked as lodge custodian, laying the foundation for her guiding career. 

Jasmin discovered rock climbing in university and was instantly captivated. Determined to pursue the sport fully, she postponed her studies and moved to Squamish, immersing herself in a vibrant climbing community. She excelled quickly and, after returning to complete her degree, earned her rock-climbing certification and began guiding with the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) in both Rock and Ski. In 2009, she took over management of her parents’ lodge. 

Today, Jasmin runs the off-grid lodge powered by a micro-hydropower system and grounded in strong environmental values. The operation has eliminated single-use plastics, composts all food waste, and relies on snowcat access to reduce impact. Their kitchen team prioritizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients – a commitment Jasmin has championed. 

Each year, the lodge donates 1% of revenue to environmental partners. Under Jasmin’s leadership, Valhalla Mountain Touring has become a warm, inclusive destination that draws skiers and hikers who return year after year as loyal friends, not just guests

“It is a privilege to live and adventure in this beautiful and sacred landscape. Finding ways to care for the land, my family, the communities around me, the folks who work with me and the guests who choose me to guide their adventures gives my life meaning and feels essential”, shares Jasmin.

LOGAN DOW

“The mountains keep me motivated and balanced. Adventure is right outside the door, and when I’m not riding or exploring with the family, I enjoy building things – including a lot of what went into Alpha Mountain Lodging – and having ample local materials nearby makes that easy”, shares Logan. 
 
Logan, is the co-owner of the Indigenous family-owned paradise known as Alpha Mountain Lodging in  Revelstoke.  Logan is actively involved in all facets of the business, from cabin construction and property maintenance to machinery operation and daily management. A member of the  Mountain Métis, Logan’s heritage traces back to the original inhabitants of what is now Jasper National Park.  

Inspired by the natural beauty of Revelstoke, Logan and his partner and co-owner Charlene built the business from scratch. In 2017, they purchased raw wilderness land, built their home, and gradually poured their time and energy into developing the property and creating the cabins.  Logan and Charlene now operate the business while living on-site with their family.  

Sustainability is at the heart of everything they do – the cabins hold the ‘Biosphere Certified‘ mark, featuring eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, nature preservation and a deep respect for the land’s heritage. They deliver an unmatched experience that combines tranquility, modern comfort, and genuine environmental responsibility.

“Living in Revelstoke has shaped the way I work by keeping things grounded and community-focused. The pace, the people, and the access to the outdoors all remind me why we built our business here in the first place – to create a place that aligns with the lifestyle we love. It pushes us to stay connected, adaptable, and intentional in how we operate”, adds Logan. 

Cover photo of Jasmin Caton at Valhalla Mountain Touring, photo by Marty Clemens