On the western side of the great swash of the Rocky Mountain Trench, running closely parallel with the Canadian Rockies, is a great and little-known collection of peaks and ranges called the Columbia Mountains.
Older than the Rockies by a couple of hundred million years, comparable to them in height, fully their equal in majesty, the Columbia ranges attract only a tiny fraction of the Rockies’ visitors. Why? A simple reason: it’s very hard to get up into them.
The Columbias are guarded by thickly undergrown wet-belt forests. Only the most inspired, experienced, and stubborn backpackers are able to bushwack their way to the dazzling heights which we attain with ease, thanks to our helicopters.
First-Timers and Old Hands, our guests vary widely in ability and interests. But our mountains are generous; they’ll lavish their gifts on anyone who courts them with respect. Careful matchmakers, our guides keep in close touch with guests throughout their stay. Our hiking groups, organized according to interests and abilities, vary in size. We often have seven guides for a lodge at its full, 44-person, capacity (except at the smaller Valemount Lodge, which will generally have four guides for its 20 guests). So there will usually be four flights to the heights for as many as seven different hikes. The idea is to get you well and enjoyably acquainted with the High Country, within the boundaries of your fitness and wishes.
We stress personalized service and flexibility above all. Activities ranging from ambling and walking to hiking and trekking, or even full-blown mountaineering, are tailored to suit your wishes and ability. Whether you are 6 or 96, our objective is to exceed your vacation expectations in every way. The use of helicopter gives us the flexibility to accommodate all levels of activity.
Ambling & Walking
Do you wish you could see for yourself the magical landscapes the mountains offer? Cobalt lakes, stupendous glaciers, cascading waterfalls: mountain beauty in its most bewitching form? Or do you dream of secluded, remote, wild places that seem to go on forever? Whether you want to simply take in the views, amble gently along a ridge line, or shoot photographs of marvelously abundant and varied wildflowers, we will be sure to "lift" you to explore your interests. Our walks are tailored to meet your needs and interests. The use of our mountain SUV (aka the helicopter) allows us endless flexibility. You tell us how far and for how long.