BACKCOUNTRY RETREATS
Cosy cabins and lodges beckon
There’s something about cabin time. You can’t beat the evenings, sitting by the glow of the stove and the smells of freshly baked cinnamon buns swirling around you. Add in reading a forgotten classic, sipping tea and sharing stories with friends.
Today, many of us hunger for slower ways; leaving the overdrive world behind. Add the benefits of nature with ski touring, snowshoeing and fine-tuning your fort building skills, and you just might have the best fix for eliminating stress. It’s puffy, down jacket time as snowflakes fill the mountains and trails beckon to one of these cosy gems nestled in the mountains. GO EASY Perfect for first timers — guided and fully catered
Assiniboine Lodge, Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, B.C.:
The first purpose-built backcountry ski lodge, Assiniboine Lodge was constructed in 1928 and still retains its heritage glow. Here, your cabin overlooks a snowy meadow and big jagged mountains. Take your first turns with care, learning key moves from the amazing certified ski guides (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides). Note to self: you won’t want to leave this historic gem.
Purcell Mountain Lodge, Golden, B.C.: This is a backcountry luxury lodge, snugly seated in a high alpine meadow. Drop in by helicopter and feel awed by the surroundings. A three-storey, timber-framed lodge will warm your soul. Learn how to ski tour from ACMG certified guides, or enjoy your own cross-country skiing paradise right out the front door.
Boulder Hut, Kimberley, B.C.:
One of the first purpose-built ski touring lodges in British Columbia, Boulder Hut offers a variety of terrain, including the famous Purcell powder. Guided options are available here as are historic charm and out of the park foodie delights. You’ll feast on long lines right back to the wood-fired hot tub; now that’s the perfect way to end a ski day. OTHER OPTIONS
Unguided and self-supported — pick one that matches your skills and experience
Alpine Club of Canada: Offers huts, lodges and cabins, ranging from rustic to well appointed, from long and arduous approaches to short strides from the road. Looking for best value for your dollar, a self-supported experience in a wilderness setting will have a shelter to fit your interests.
Dave Henry Lodge, Valemount, B.C.: Get heli dropped in by the uber talented pilots at Robson Heli Magic. This lodge is located on the boundary of Mount Robson Provincial Park, in a world filled with snowy crags and big trees. Marvel at the hand-built log lodge, crafted with care by local pioneers. While powder runs beckon outside, let the magic of cabin time take over and kick back with your favourite book next to the wood stove.
BEFORE YOU GO
Before venturing out to any of these huts, make sure you’ll be safe. Take a ski touring course from the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre or from a certified ACMG Guide and always go with experienced friends. Make sure to also sign up for Avalanche Skills Training course from the U of C Outdoor Centre or Yamnuska. Check local weather reports and Avalanche Canada bulletins before venturing out.
When you’re first starting out, rent gear from the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre or other ski shops. After a couple of trips, you may want to get your own gear. Take time to find the right fit in alpine touring boots. Get a backpack that fits properly, which is so important when skiing with a load.