EXPERIENCE A CAMPFIRE COOKOUT UNDER THE STARS

The snow crunches under your snowshoes as you weave your way through an old-growth forest. The moon lights your path, and the light of your headlamp makes the snow-laden trees sparkle. You look up at snowflakes gently falling through ancient branches, and there’s a paradoxical sense of peace and excitement as darkness descends, and the stars claim the night. As you turn back toward camp, you can see a fire glowing, hear the soothing strum of a guitar, and smell the sweetness of hot chocolate.

The Canadian Campfire Cookout is a new tour for Canadian Wilderness Adventures (CWA), a local company that has offered unique adventures in Whistler for more than 25 years. Based in the wilds of the Callaghan Valley, just a 20-minute drive south of Whistler Village, they know firsthand how magical the forest is when lit by the stars, so they launched a twilight snowshoe and dinner tour that revels in the night.

Adventurers meet at the CWA base and are fitted for snowshoes and a headlamp, and then a guide leads them on a short, serene journey in the surrounding forest. After returning to the base, each group has its campfire, and a hearty dinner that includes chili, smokies, s’mores, hot chocolate, and non-alcoholic spiced cider, while a guitarist sings by the light of the moon.“If you’re looking for a truly Canadian winter experience, the Canadian Campfire Cookout is it,” says Kristal Taylor, CWA director of sales and marketing. “After a peaceful snowshoe along the Medicine Trail, through an old-growth forest, you come together around your campfire to fill your belly, enjoy live music, and gaze up at the stars overhead.”

Tours run from 4:30 to 8 p.m., making it a perfect activity after a day on the slopes, and a casual dinner option. For couples, the mix of starlight, exploration, and fireside cuddles has a romantic edge, while for families, this is a one-of-a-kind experience that everyone can enjoy, one delicious, toasted marshmallow at a time. Visit canadianwilderness.com, or call their adventure desk at 604-938-1616.