Callaghan Country Blog - Callaghan Country

Callaghan Lake Snowshuttle Returns, bigger, and better than ever!

11/17/2022

We are excited to launch the Snowshuttle program this year with the addition of our new snowcat. The new cat features a larger cabin which can accommodate up to 15 passengers all while staying comfortably heated and enjoying the panoramic views on the drive up to Callaghan Lake.⁠

From the lake you can enjoy both high elevation Nordic skiing and impressive access some of the best untracked backcountry skiing around.

The shuttle will run 2 trips in the morning; one at 8:00am and another at 11:00am.
The cat will also be available for 1 trip down from the lake leaving at 3:00pm.

For more details on the Snowshuttle and to book your seat now Click the link below
Snowcat Shuttle

Summer Upgrades Complete!

11/10/2022

There's a lot that goes on behind the scenes which makes this place go around. This summer our team has been busier than ever fixing things up for the season and putting in some major upgrades.

Yesterday was the icing on the cake to cap off the summer with our new generator for the lodge being flown in. Our operations manager Patrick (left) and lodge manager Nick (right) share a celebratory coffee to mark a job well done.

The new generator brings a whole host of improvements which are going to make your stay up at the lodge even more relaxing. It will add more power capacity to the lodge allowing us to provide a heated boot and glove drying unit for your convenience. There's no better feeling than waking up early to go skiing and having warm, dry gloves.

Benchmark Series Returns for 2023

11/7/2022

Our Benchmark Series is back for 2023! Challenge yourself on our social ski to Journeyman Lodge and try improving your time from one event to the next. Enjoy a hot lunch at the Lodge before skiing back down. Get a chance to win great door prizes from Sponsors!

Dates:
The first event will be Sunday, January 29th.
Following days will be Sunday, February 26th and Sunday, March 26th
Cost:
$10/person to be paid on the morning of the event (includes lunch). Cash payment is preferred to speed up the process but credit card payment is also accepted. **Note: Nordic ski trail admission ticket is additional, we recommend buying your ticket online to save 10% on regular rates.

Sign up must be made ahead of time by emailing us at info@callaghancountry.com.
Novice skiers are encouraged to start at no later than 9:30am and experienced skiers should start no later than 11:30am. You can start as early as 8:30am when our gates open and lunch will be served between 12PM and 2PM.

It's Huckleberry Time!

9/24/2022

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 24th, when Journeyman Lodge welcomes hikers of all ages for a FREE PANCAKE BREAKFAST! Escape to a setting where food is found among the paths we walk, experience mountain camaraderie and explore nature at its best. Join on the Facebook Event and Invite your Friends >>

SCHEDULE...

8:00am suggested arrival at the Callaghan Lake parking area and trailhead
Please allow for a minimum 2 hr hike into Journeyman Lodge. Be sure to pick a cup of berries along the way so you can deliver them to our Lodge Chef for the huckleberry pancakes
9:00am-Noon Pancake Brunch and social in the lodge dining room

Don't forget it's a wee bit different getting to Journeyman Lodge in the summer…
Self-Drive and Hike:
Follow the Callaghan Lake Forest Service Road to Callaghan Lake. It is about 8.5km from the Alexander Falls base to Callaghan Lake on a rough road and it takes about 20 – 35 minutes. We recommend using a vehicle with good clearance (4WD preferred). The trail to the lodge begins about 250m before you reach the lake – look for the sign on your left. There is a small clearing just off the road – park here. From here, the hike is 4.5 km and will take between 1.5 – 2 hours depending on your ability and fitness level.

*Please remember that resident wildlife, including grizzly bears, are now entering their annual power-eating phase called 'hyperphagia'. They are biologically programmed to go into hyperdrive in the autumn season because they need to put on a thick layer of life-sustaining fat before they turn in for the winter.

It is your responsibility to ensure that your recreational pursuits do not contribute to human-wildlife conflict. Do your part to learn more about reducing conflict where we play by visiting WildSafeBC & AdventureSmart. We also recommend this excellent presentation organized by the Coast to Cascades Grizzly Bear Initiative and AWARE Whistler: Coexistence - Recreation and Grizzly Bears in the Backcountry >>

✓ Be aware of your surroundings. ✓ Hike in groups and stay together. ✓ Keep kids within sight. ✓ Keep dogs on a leash or leave them home. ✓ Make noise on the trails. ✓ Carry bear spray & know how to use it. ✓ Know what to do in an encounter

Hiking into Winter

9/23/2022

While many of us are still ambitiously lacing up those hiking shoes and hitting the trails we're also all too familiar that, in a blink, the snowline will soon be sneaking down the mountains and the valleys will be drenched in seasonal cold rains. So what is the devoted hike enthusiast to do? As much as we love xc skiing in the Callaghan, when it comes to early winter when there may be low snowpack on the trails, snowshoes really are the ideal means for snow travel. You can avoid 'postholing' (when your foot disappears below the surface) and you can skirt the occasional obstacles (think logs, rocks, and creek crossings) with general ease.

Invigorating cold air awaits and the solitude of early winter season hiking by snowshoe has countless perks...no crowds, no bugs, no wildfire smoke. Not to mention, it's easy on your wallet, a sport that is fun for all ages and skill-levels, + a great workout - especially in the often dense early snowfall conditions!

We may have just passed through autumnal equinox, but it's certainly not too early to start planning your winter adventures. Local Adventure Ambassador, Taryn Eyton, of Happiest Outdoors offers a great list of 'Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler'. Taryn rightly highlights the beautiful trail network that Callaghan has to offer but also emphasizes the importance of being prepared while snowshoeing. As with most outdoor activities, when heading into new territory, it's advisable to make it a social affair and partner up with a few hiking buddies. If you're looking to build your community, there are many friendly folks connecting on Whistler Hikers Facebook Group >> and Squamish Hikers Facebook Group >> to find fellow hikers and exchange information and updates.

As something to work towards, Journeyman Lodge is set to open its doors Friday, December 9th and we're offering exclusive savings for snowshoers for the whole month - We'll even throw in complimentary snowshoe rentals for guests making Dec. 9-25th reservations! Email: reservations@callaghancountry.com or call 604.938.0616 to learn more or make a booking while vacancies last.

The snowshoe trek into Journeyman Lodge is both challenging and rewarding, but expectations and attitude count as much as fitness level! While we welcome a spectrum of beginner to advanced outdoor enthusiasts, the physical demand is respectable and can be amplified when heavy weather systems arrive. A once groomed trail can quickly fade with heavy snowfall and the time it takes to get to the lodge is very weather dependent. Generally, a sense of grit along with the expectation of a solid uphill burn in the elements can set you up for success. The spectrum of feedback can vary from 'grueling' to 'cruisey'; ultimately it's a personal experience. Click Here>> to access trail stats and learn more about the self-propelled adventure into Journeyman Lodge.

Family Snowshoeing Adventures – Getting Started

1/10/2022

It’s that time of year...winter. The kids are retreating to the comforts and warmth of the indoors but you want them all to go outdoors! If you are searching for a way for your family to connect with nature, have fun and burn off some energy; why not try snowshoeing? It is probably the easiest and cheapest way to have some family winter fun! Here are four things to consider when to introducing your family to the sport:

1) Clothing and Packs
You will want to dress everyone in layers. A good long underwear base coupled with snow pants and a nice shell is great for starters. Little ones will generate a lot of heat walking around, maybe even more than you since they will be putting in more effort. Finish the outfit with toques, mittens and snow boots. Remember that mittens will keep your little one’s hands warmer than gloves and they may need something more waterproof than you do as they are more susceptible to falling and may not be able to resist the urge to make snowballs. Everyone should carry a small backpack with a mid-layer such as a down jacket or a polar fleece for added warmth just in case anyone cools off or if you plan to stop for a winter picnic. Even small children can carry their own small nap-sack, be sure that the straps are padded in the shoulders and that the packs are nice and light. You can also include a spare pair of gloves, socks and a neck warmer in your day packs in case anyone gets too wet or cold. Also pack, sun glasses, sun screen, a snack and some water, especially if you plan to be out for an extended period.

2) Snowshoes and Poles
The big question with new sports is always: Should I buy or rent the gear? For the first time you may want to try snowshoe rentals which you can pick up at the Access Callaghan Ski Shop. Children’s snowshoes are relatively inexpensive considering how long they last. They are also fairly small and easy to store and can be handed down from child to child. See brands such as GV, Atlas, MSR for snowshoes in kids sizes. Snowshoes in this class are often rated for 30-80 pounds, after that, your child will move to adult sizes. Shoes should support your child’s weight while donning winter clothes and carrying a small pack. They should have an easy to use strap-in-system and have crampons underfoot, to help provide grip on hills and ice. Alpine poles are not necessary, especially for smaller children, however if you are going for longer distances with older children, poles are recommended. They provide extra stability on ungroomed trails, up-hill and when carrying heavier packs. For preteens and teenagers, try adjustable poles that can grow with them.

3) Getting Started
As the saying goes... If you can walk, you can snowshoe. This is especially true for older children and adults, but for smaller children you may want to start off by playing a few games to set them up for success. Try waddling like a penguin, or making dinosaur tracks to get them walking in a wider stance. Also practice making U-turns, snowshoes are great for going forwards and sideways, but they can never go backwards. Other fun games to play include classics like Simon Says and Red-Light-Green-Light. Or you can get really creative and try playing Charades, instead of drawing with paper and pencil; you can have your child draw out different shapes with their tracks. Try easy shapes like circles, hearts and houses to start and have someone else guess what the shape is. Another popular activity with children is a good old fashioned scavenger hunt. For a pre-made printable winter scavenger hunt list click here.

4) Where and When
Location and timing are two of the most important decisions you will make to dictate the level of enjoyment had by all. Try to avoid any bad weather; no one likes being exposed to wind, sleet or rain and this goes double for children. Here on the West Coast one of the most popular reasons to participate in snow sports is to take a break from the rainy city and recharge up in the frosted alpine. You will also want to choose easy hikes to start. A nice introductory snowshoe trail is the Wetland Wanderer which starts right at Callaghan Country's Alexander Falls Touring Centre. It's a short green (easy) trail and stays close to the base, so you can rest assure that you won’t be very far from your vehicle if things go awry. Once everyone is comfortable with their skills, you can embark on a more challenging winter family adventures! For kids ages 10 and older, get them excited by visiting Alexander Falls! This is a truly spectacular trail with a tall frozen waterfall and the end.

COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS) UPDATE

12/1/2021

Update 8:15am, Friday, March 11th, 2022:

COVID-19 Operating Guide: Know before you go...

PRIOR TO ANY VISIT TO CALLAGHAN COUNTRY, please screen yourself using the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool >> and diligently follow instructions. If you are deemed safe to proceed, please come prepared and understand your responsibilities as a visitor here.

WHEN VISITING CALLAGHAN COUNTRY, we ask that you please:

Check our conditions page for available daily services
Maintain Physical distancing by keeping two meters (six feet) away from one another. Respect people's boundaries and ask for consent before you get close.
Bring a mask or face covering if you choose. Face coverings will be optional for people in all indoor public settings. People may want to continue wearing a mask based on personal choice
Follow good sanitary practices by washing and sanitizing your hands often, avoid touching your face, and sneeze or cough into your elbow.

Proof of Vaccination is required of all guests to Journeyman Lodge (Until April 8, 2022), as our dining experience includes full-service. That means that after a long day of crushing powder in the backcountry, you can come back to the lodge and kick your heels up to enjoy a three-course dinner. The only heavy lifting you’ll be doing when it comes to mealtime is fork to mouth.

With the easing of restrictions regarding group table limits, we’ll once again have our dining room set-up for communal dining (aka family style meals) so we can get back to the camaraderie and connection that our souls have been craving. We are also happy to accommodate guests with requests for a separate dining table who prefer to maintain their space from other parties; please let us know in advance. For the time being, our delicious meals will be served by masked staff.

Masks are no longer required in communal areas indoors, but we happily respect the personal choice for those who choose to do so. While we encourage hugs between your own social group, please continue to respect physical distancing with all other guests and staff throughout the lodge.

As part of your registration as an incoming guest, we ask that you carefully review our current Journeyman Lodge COVID-19 Safety Plan to prepare yourself with guidelines for Best Practices and Protocols during your stay.

Please remember, EVERYTHING IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE: We are still living in the Covid-19 pandemic, as such it is evident that each day comes with new announcements, policies, guidelines, or unexpected situations. Callaghan Country places absolute priority on the health and safety of our community. Things can and probably will change; we appreciate your patience as we determine the right thing to do. Adhering to travel recommendations/restrictions is the responsibility of the traveler, not the operator. Please respect the most current public travel guidelines when booking, re-evaluate at the final payment deadlines and on trip departure.

Callaghan Valley and The Tale of the Journeyman

11/15/2021

The summer of 1976, two young adventurers were busy scrambling around in the Coast Mountain Range having spent the winter skiing Whistler and now, between contracts for forest fire fighting, busied themselves by bagging peaks. Nic Slater and Brad Sills were childhood friends whose appetite for challenge was just incubating.

Not too long after a failed alpine resort proposal had punched a road to Callaghan Lake, the two would discover the Upper Callaghan Valley. There, they spent four years walking the terrain and laying out the Mad River Nordic Ski Centre and adjacent ski touring routes. In 1981, they applied for and were issued a Land License to conduct all forms of “Free Heel” skiing and to build a warming hut. For the next sixteen years, the two found themselves engaged in an endless series of public processes ranging from mineral rights, public recreation, wildlife, habitat, and First Nations considerations, all in a convoluted effort to determine appropriate use of land. The naming of Conflict Lake was a direct result of this period. Having sat for five years on a Provincial Government Steering Committee to ensure that logging and mining would not occur, Sills and other backcountry enthusiasts were rewarded in 1997; a portion around Callaghan and Cirque Lakes was placed within a Provincial Park designation.

With the major land use question seemingly answered and having spent the intervening time operating a very rough-and-tumble ski touring operation in which there had never once been a repeat customer, the two re-examined their business model. They approached the Province with the idea of creating a commercial backcountry ski operation that promoted accommodations based on Norwegian and Swiss Alps models. The concept of a full-service mountain lodge–complete with indoor plumbing, chef-prepared dining and cozy, private rooms–hit a niche yet growing market with those who valued an option other than the traditional mountain club hut.

Sills and Slater, who by this time, had each built successful construction companies in Whistler and who had, in doing so, gained a large posse of die-hard skiing tradesmen most of whom had pioneered many of the first descents in the area on telemark skis, found themselves in a unique position. The stable and quality of the tradesmen who were prepared to live in tents, work in the snow, and schralp everything in sight was truly phenomenal. Unbridled by the pure passion of the project, the quality of the workmanship continued to excel with each group of trades trying to match or beat the standard of the work that preceded them. Hand-crafted bannisters, cozy sleeping cubbies, and crown mouldings are all testimony of the attention to detail afforded to the project by these gifted craftsmen.

This was truly a community effort. Most of the labour and materials were contributed in exchange for equity shares. Carpenters, plumbers, roofers, sparkies, stone masons, hoe operators, and building supply owners all came together as one. The Journeyman, as they became to be known, received credits for time worked on the lodge. This could be used later for time in the lodge and the opportunity to quench some of their insatiable adventure thirst. Apparently, no challenge was too big. Being towed by snowmobile for 25 kms on skinny skis was the norm. Tales of wild creek bed descents and freefalling couloirs grew into scotch fuelled legends of lore and even larger half-truths. Many nights were spent around the sauna regaling guests in the ways of the wild west before collectively plunging naked into the darkness of the snowbound creek. It was a time when men were men and the goats were nervous.

Not long after the Lodge opened in 1998, Sills was approached by a citizen group interested in hosting the 2010 winter Olympics. It had been suggested that the Mad River Nordic Center might be a venue candidate for the cross-country ski events. The next four years were filled with technical delegate evaluations, preliminary designs, and presentations aimed at winning first the domestic bid and eventually the IOC award.

Having forfeited all of the land required to host the Winter Games, the company re-branded itself to more accurately reflect its core values of wilderness exploration, environmental stewardship, and to the collaborative effort of working with its neighbours in creating North America’s most comprehensive Nordic ski facility. Callaghan Country Wilderness Adventures has continued the advocacy for low impact backcountry recreation at every land use decision process over the past forty years. The company is proud to have been part of the Olympic movement and the preservation of significant natural landscapes for generations to come.

The spirit of Journeyman Lodge and the early community of Coast Mountain ski tourers, climbers, hikers, riders, and border line crazy people intent on living a life with purpose continues to flourish within the walls of this truly unique institution.

Written by Brad Sills, Callaghan Country Wilderness Adventures General Manager

Fresh Tracks: Callaghan Country joins evo

10/5/2021

We are excited to share that Callaghan Country Wilderness Adventures Ltd. has been acquired by outdoor retailer and lifestyle brand, evo.

For over 40 years now, the Callaghan Crew and several of the original ‘Journeymen’ of Journeyman Lodge have worked tirelessly towards the company vision: ‘to be known as a world-class mountain adventure wilderness destination for cross country skiing, backcountry skiing, telemark skiing, and self-propelled four-season recreation of every kind.’

The transition in ownership to evo supports the next phase of cultivating this vision and we are confident that these are the winds of change we’ve been preparing for all these years.

Brad Sills, Co-Founder & President of CCWA, shares: “It is with mixed feelings that we step aside and allow new energy to once again fuel this project. To all of our most valued customers, Rest assured, I have always admired your enthusiasm for this most challenging product. Witnessing you out on the Upper Valley trails is what kept me going year after year. Thank you so much for appreciating what has been so dear to the Callaghan Team for the last 41 years.”

Founder and CEO of evo, Bryce Phillips, says: “I’m personally very grateful to have this opportunity to carry the torch forward as we look to establish Journeyman as a centerpiece for the community in the Sea to Sky and beyond. When I moved to Whistler in 1997, had someone told me that one day we’d be in a position to work with Brad and his team to continue their vision, I would not have believed it.”

When it comes to passing the torch, we truly believe that evo shares our vision and we have much respect for both their core values and diversity, equity, and inclusion commitments. Plus, evo is immersed within the Whistler community with five storefront locations throughout the village and also through their financial support of local non-profit organizations and charitable on the ground work.

evo will take over operations of Journeyman Lodge on October 5th, 2021. Christian Begin, ski-industry veteran and co-founder of Bella Coola Heli Sports in BC, will serve in the position of General Manager. Brad will work closely with Christian and the evo team in the transition of ownership and operations of Callaghan Country and its legacy, offering his invaluable insights, knowledge, and experience on this next chapter of the CCWA journey.

Learn more and read the press release from evo here.

About evo:
evo is an outdoor company whose purpose is to make life better by building community and igniting the adventurous spirit that lives within us all. evo is focused on providing unique experiences and it’s also committed to supporting non-profit organizations dedicated to getting underserved kids outdoors.

evo currently operates 8 stores in the U.S. and Canada, with several new locations set to open soon. Featuring art galleries and event spaces, evo stores serve as welcoming places for the outdoor community to gather. evo stores and evo.com carry a wide range of premium gear for skiing, snowboarding, surfing, mountain biking, camping, wakeboarding, and skateboarding.

In addition, evo offers lodging, trips and experiences centered on sport, culture, the outdoors, and human connection. evoTrip, the company’s adventure-travel service, offers more than 60 trips to destinations around the world. evo also runs an indoor skatepark, called All Together Skatepark, in Seattle.

In partnership with a group of complementary businesses, evo will open a 100,000 square foot campus in Salt Lake City, Utah this winter. Campus Salt Lake will include an evo store, evo Hotel, All Together Skatepark, Salt Lake Bouldering Project, Level 9 Sports, restaurant and more.

To learn more about evo, please visit evo.com.

Huckleberry Festival Is Back!

8/22/2021

It's the most delicious time of year!

Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 26th, when Journeyman Lodge welcomes hikers of all ages for a FREE PANCAKE BREAKFAST! Escape to a setting where food is found among the paths we walk, experience mountain camaraderie, and explore nature at its best, while celebrating the history of the huckleberry!

Hike through the Callaghan Valley to Journeyman Lodge picking fresh huckleberries along the way. Once you arrive at Journeyman Lodge, you will deliver your cup of berries to our Lodge Chef who will prepare your huckleberry pancakes. There's nothing more satisfying - and tasty - than eating the (literal) fruits of your labour.

SCHEDULE...

8:00am suggested arrival at the Callaghan Lake parking area and trailhead
Please allow for a minimum 2 hr hike into Journeyman Lodge. Be sure to pick a cup of berries along the way so you can deliver them to our Lodge Chef for the huckleberry pancakes
9:00am-Noon Pancake Brunch and social in the lodge dining room

Don't forget it's a wee bit different getting to Journeyman Lodge in the summer…

Self-Drive and Hike:
Follow the Callaghan Lake Forest Service Road to Callaghan Lake. It is about 8.5km from the Alexander Falls base to Callaghan Lake on a rough road and it takes about 20 – 35 minutes. We recommend using a vehicle with good clearance (4WD preferred). The trail to the lodge begins about 250m before you reach the lake – look for the sign on your left. There is a small clearing just off the road – park here. From here, the hike is 4.5 km and will take between 1.5 – 2 hours depending on your ability and fitness level.

Please Note: COVID-19 Operating Standards in effect. Pancake Brunch and social: In-lodge dining room (physically-distanced) and outdoor patio options available.

Stay home if you have any symptoms, however mild, and get tested if your symptoms are consistent with COVID-19.
Practice physical distancing.
Mask wearing is required in indoor public spaces.
Wash your hands often.

Beginning September 13, proof of vaccination will be required to access discretionary services in British Columbia. Huckleberry Festival qualifies as one of these discretionary services. Full details are available on the Government of British Columbia’s website.

Top 5 Reasons to book your Christmas Vacation at Journeyman Lodge

5/26/2021

Christmas Vacation Journeyman Lodge, Whistler BC

Holiday Season at Callaghan Country: Open every day December 17, 2021 – January 4, 2022

Yes, we're still navigating our way out of a Pandemic, and Christmas may be the last thing on your mind. But while there’s still a good selection of availability on our Lodge calendar and, likely, your family’s holiday schedules, here’s a few good reasons to plan ahead and consider including Journeyman Lodge in your Holiday festivities this season…

1. It’s the perfect Winter Wonderland backdrop. Picture this: After a satisfying ski into a remote mountain wilderness…a crackling fire in the background as you enjoy your family’s company over appies in our lounge area…you look out into the moonlit mountains of the secluded Solitude Valley, surrounding Journeyman Lodge - it’s pretty much a Christmas card come to life!

2. Get cozy and enjoy quality family time free from the craziness of shopping frenzies and technological distractions. The luxury of any backcountry experience is that it is a true escape from our everyday lives. The ‘un-plugged” aspect of Journeyman lodge lends itself to genuine human interaction etching memories of character and warmth. The holiday season is a unique window when Journeyman Lodge waives its 13-yrs-and-up policy to welcome guests of all ages. There's even a special discount of 55% off to guests 13 yrs & under for reservations Dec.17-25 & Jan 2-4! As with all backcountry travel, there are inherent risks involved and they are not to be taken lightly; Please Contact Us >> directly for more information about planning a family adventure to our backcountry lodge.

3. Cut your contributions to consumer culture and gift this authentic experience instead of stuff. This is a gift you can really feel good about giving; the receiving ain’t so bad either!

4. You pay in advance. This eases the usual cash flow crunch experienced when the holidays arrive, plus once you’re here there’s no unexpected costs…our packages are all inclusive so you can enjoy the peace of mind knowing you’re not going to need to run any last minute errands.

5. Let our team work their charm. Now this one is a bit of a secret: with the holiday season kicking off our winter calendar, this is the Callaghan Country team’s favourite time to please. We love seeing our guests enjoy their families and truly connecting so we’re going to be striving extra hard to make the trip special for you!

Callaghan Country is now accepting holiday reservations at Journeyman Lodge. Bring your family, friends, or come by yourself - we look forward to sharing this special time of the year with you! The best way to make your reservation is to take a look at our online reservation calendar, book now >>, or call us directly Monday thru Friday from 7am to Noon: 1.604.938.0616

How to Help Protect Endangered Species

5/20/2021

Every year on the third Friday in May, people around the world participate in Endangered Species Day by celebrating, learning about, and taking action to protect threatened and endangered species. In honour of this initiative, we wanted to highlight one of the many endangered species that lives in the Callaghan Valley and share a few ways you can help protect endangered species.

Introducing the accipiter gentilis laingi, otherwise known as the northern goshawk! Northern goshawks are large hawks (between the size of a raven and a goose) with a typical wingspan of just over one metre. They have a light grey chest and belly and a blue-grey back with prominent white stripes over bright red eyes. Northern goshawks inhabit large areas of old-growth forests. The loss of mature forests throughout the northern goshawk’s range accounts for the primary reason this species of bird is listed as endangered. Fortunately, the Callaghan Valley is home to swathes of protected old-growth coniferous forests, providing northern goshawks with their preferred habitat.

Northern Goshawk | Photo by Karen Laubenstein

The northern goshawk isn’t the only threatened or of-concern species living in the Callaghan Valley; there are a number of animal and plant species on the Wildlife Species at Risk list, including sage-grouse, American marten, eastern wolves, wolverines, and more.

Want to know how you can help protect and save endangered species in your local area? Here are a few ways you can help:

Learn about the endangered species in your area. The first step in protecting endangered and threatened species is learning about which are local to you and understanding their importance to the local habitat. Healthy ecosystems are dependent on plant and animal species as their foundation and so when a species becomes endangered, it’s a sign that the ecosystem is falling apart. With each species lost, it triggers the loss of other species within that same ecosystem. As humans, we rely on healthy ecosystems to purify our environment; without robust forests, rivers, oceans, and other ecosystems, we risk our own health through contaminated environments. Thus, it’s cyclical: protecting the environment and its wildlife to maintain its health is crucial to keeping ourselves healthy as well.
Make your home wildlife friendly. Always secure garbage in lidded cans or within a shelter to avoid attracting wild animals into more urban environments that put them at risk. Reduce water consumption in your home and garden so animals that live near or in water can have a better chance at survival. Use window decals to deter bird collisions, which account for the death of millions of birds each year.
Use native plants to provide food and shelter for native wildlife. Avoid introducing invasive species to the area, which compete with native plants for resources and habitat, displace native vegetation, and disturb or degrade the natural ecosystem–even forcing native species toward extinction. With that, use natural alternatives to herbicides and pesticides, which can take a long time to degrade and build up in the soils and throughout the food chain. Predators like owls, hawks, and coyotes can be harmed if they eat poisoned animals.
Recycle and purchase sustainable products. Each purchase made has social, health, and environmental impacts. Through buying sustainable products (and voting with your dollar), you influence manufacturers to make more sustainable products and lead by example within your direct community. Plus, conserving natural resources ensures they last longer through proper resource management and waste is reduced.
Get involved and volunteer with conservation projects. You can make an impact as an individual by learning about and raising awareness of endangered species through volunteering and partnering with conversation groups and initiatives. You’ll deepen your knowledge of wildlife conservation and have the opportunity to make a difference through maintaining well-balanced ecosystems and conserving the animals that rely on them. Through volunteering, you’ll learn more about conservation in a real-life context and become aware of the challenges involved in conservation up close.

How to Put Storage Wax on Your Skis

3/23/2021

Cleaning the base of our skis at Access Callaghan. Photo captured by Warwick Sanderson

It's that time of year... when you have to start to think about putting your skis away for the summer. We know, pretty tragic! But we think that to be grateful for how much joy our skis bring us, putting storage wax on your skis for the off-season is a great way to make the most of your ski's lives.

1. Clean Your Base!
Classic
Apply base cleaner with a fiberlene cloth and thoroughly clean to get all the glidewax off the tip and tail. For fish-scale skis, clean them with the same method as the tip and tail to clean all the dirt that may have built up over the season. For waxless skis, scrape off the Klister using wax remover and a cloth to take the stickiness off. You will not be applying glidewax on the kickzone for your classic skis.
Skate
Apply base cleaner with the fiberlene cloth over the entire ski, removing any dirt, particles and old wax that may have built up over the year.

2. Apply the Wax
The ideal way to apply storage wax, is to use the hot iron to use a warm hot wax all over the ski. Melt your wax over the ski (only the tip and tail for classic skis) at the correct temperature. Then, take your iron over the glidewax and wait until it hardens. You are almost there!
3. Store in a Safe Place
There is no need to scrape the glidewax, as this will serve as the protection for your skis while in storage. Either vertically or horizontally, make sure the skis are nice and cozy until you can take them out again.

If you are interested in doing this process this season, we have all the gear necessary to get your skis nice and protected at Access Callaghan! As a bonus, if you are a seasons pass holder, you can receive 25% off Swix Wax in our store.

Spring: The Ultimate Season for Errant Snowtravel

3/10/2021

If you've been watching our Current Conditions page, you may have noticed that the snow has been building up in the Callaghan Valley all winter long. Spring heralds the end of winter but brings us to the pinnacle of snowtravel landscapes. With an established snow base, longer days, and warmer temperatures, the valley unveils new amusements particularly satisfying to the curious and determined.

Ever wondered about those brown dotted lines on the Ski Callaghan Trail Map? They represent un-groomed, yet reasonably manageable routes through Ski Callaghan's wilderness. When properly equipped with light touring skis or snowshoes, the experience parallels with hiking and wilderness backpacking. Spring brings the notable allure of a full season of snow accumulation for expedient travel above the shrub and understory layers of the forest. This alleviates tedious bushwhacking and provides a unique perspective of the terrain. There's something about wilderness touring that's particularly errant; it's simply about exploring what's beyond the beaten path (aka groomed trail network). Just like wilderness backpacking, this form of recreation requires a sound awareness of the risks of the mountain environment, independent navigation skills, and may involve route finding through potential avalanche terrain. It's wholly self-reliant.

If you prefer sticking to the beaten path, the story is equally enticing. Contrary to popular belief, the warmer temperatures of spring can actually contribute to optimal groomed Nordic surfaces for both Classic and Skate disciplines of XC skiing. Have you ever heard the term 'hero snow'? It's a phrase coined by skiers to describe optimum conditions; the stuff that makes everybody look like a great skier. You see, by springtime, the trails are well packed...add the warmer temperatures to increase overall moisture levels and you have the ingredients for 'ideal' glide. As suggested in a Ontario Parks' blog feature on how to 'read' the snow, "Generally speaking, if the snow falls like talcum powder when you pick it up, it’s 'cold' snow. If you can make a snowball easily, it’s 'warm'. And if the snow is hard to clump, it’s 'ideal'.” INSIDERS TIP: Look for overcast skies. This will offer better surface consistency, avoiding the icy to slushy dichotomy of a sunny day.

And don't forget about the search for POWDER. Yes, it remains. A treasure for the truly talented backcountry tourer. There's still a snow base of well over 3 metres in the Solitude Valley! In addition to discovering fresh snow and glaciated terrain at the higher elevations, talented backcountry tourers will use this time to do some additional exploring. Spring is optimal for familiarizing oneself with new climbs and spotting next season's lines.

Know Before it Snows! Your Guide to the types of Snow and what creates them.

3/8/2021

Are you a backcountry buff and love to shred through some awesome pow? Or do you like the crisp, cold, hard snow that makes you glide effortlessly on our Nordic trails?

We have created a guide to snow, the ins and outs of each general crystal type and what conditions are needed to form them. As the Callaghan Valley gets some of the the highest snowfall averages in the lower mainland- we think snow is pretty special. The field of snow science is vast, and includes 80 different classifications of snow crystals! We have broadened it to 5 general types but we have linked some more comprehensive guides below. To know more about the wilderness in the Callaghan Valley, and take a look at our Mountain Monday social media series!

Stellar Dendrites

A skier pops out of deep powder in the backcountry of the Callaghan Valley. Captured by Jeff Thomas & Blank Collective Films

Stellar dendrites may look familiar to you, as the "classic" snowflake shape and the one you cut out for Christmas decorations. These beautiful crystals need temperatures of -15C to create flat, plate-like and detailed structures. The amazing thing about these dendrites, is that they are shape shifters! Due to the atmospheric changes of the column of air they fall through, changes of humidity and temperature, causes the crystal to grow and change as it falls to the ground. However, because it is one crystal and has the same conditions on all sides of it, they are symmetrical structures. Stellar, eh? :) And because they are so thin and light, they make super low density snow which makes the beautiful pow that we know and love.

Columns and Needles

Hollow Columns resting on the ski rack outside the Alexander Falls Touring Centre

These amazing crystals are he types of crystals that occur when hoarfrost is created. Hoar, simply put, is frozen dew. To create surface hoar, the formation of the crystals (as with any type of snow crystals), is dependent on temperature and humidity. Surface hoar occurs with clear, cold (below -5C) and calm weather conditions. The snow reaches very cold temperatures, but radiates a heated layer of air directly above it which is typically about 10C warmer than the surface. The warm buffer of air holds a high amount of water vapour, and the vapour freezes upon contact with the surface of the snow. If the hoar gets buried with fresh snow, it essentially becomes a layer of a very thick blanket sitting on a layer of ice. If something makes that blanket move- down it goes! Although not very nive for our alpine skiers, these crystals create that fast, firm snow that is so nice to get your Nordic skis on. This cold crust on the snow creates a nice glide, while not being so cold that your skin doesn't freeze under the spandex;)

Capped Columns

Photo Credit to Alexey Kljatov

Capped Columns are a little less common than columns and plates, that have the appearance of an empty spool of thread. These crystals are formed when a crystal travels through multiple temperatures as it falls to the ground. First a column has to form (so around -5C), and then travels through colder temperatures (about -15C) to form plates or dendrites on the end of the column.

Diamond Dust

Glittering snow in the Solitude Valley. Photo Captured by Warwick Sanderson

With an apt name, these crystals are so small that they become the sparkling glitter on top of a snowpack on a bluebird day. Diamond dust forms, not from falling from a cloud, but by water vapour that is near to the ground that freezes. The individual water vapour droplets are so small, they form hexagonal plates and form a carpet of tiny prisms on the snowpack, which results in the glitter show on a sunny day.

Guides to Snow Science Below!

The Field Guide to Snowflakes
All About Snow: The National Snow and Ice Data Centre
How do snowflakes form? From the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Association

Get Wild About Winter!

2/23/2021

We are excited to announce our interactive, month-long Wild About Winter Bingo challenge at Callaghan Country!

During the month of March, we encourage you to visit us in the Callaghan and participate in a range of fun, Callaghan-centric activities filled with adventure and nature immersion. Download your digital Wild About Winter Bingo card below to start planning how you will collect your squares!

We’ve partnered with incredible brands and local businesses, giving you the chance to win some sweet prizes for participating - including a voucher towards a stay at Journeyman Lodge!

Submit your Wild About Winter Bingo activity card before April 1st to be entered in to various prize draws. Submit your completed cards and accompanying photos by email at info@callaghancountry.com or tag @CallaghanCountry and use the hashtag #CCWAbingo to share your photos with us!

Fully completed cards will be entered to win a voucher toward a stay at Journeyman Lodge during the 2021-2022 winter season. Cards completed with a “C” for Callaghan will be entered to win a swag bag featuring gear from our partner sponsors: Arc’teryx, Salomon, Ryders Eyewear, Double Decker Coffee Roasting, Alpine Dogs, Little Pine, and Eagleview Veterinary Hospital. Cards completed with a single line will be entered in to win two free equipment rentals from Access Callaghan!

Prizes must be picked up in person at 1000 Callaghan Valley Road, Whistler during the week of April 4th-12th, 2021.

For questions or more information about our Wild About Winter Bingo challenge, get in touch at info@callaghancountry.com or 604.964.0058

DOWNLOAD THE PDF TO GET STARTED AND MAKE MARCH MEMORABLE

Thank You To Our Generous Sponsors!

The Top 5 Reasons to Stay at a Local Backcountry Lodge This Winter

2/9/2021

Do you live in the Sea to Sky and are aching for travel and adventure? Or are missing the backcountry huts of pre-COVID life? Support a local business and stay at a local backcountry lodge, while scratching the itch of travelling to a new place. Check out the full article by our friends at Backcountry Lodges of BC, and you might see a familiar building in the article!

Mindfulness in the Mountains with Backcountry Lodges of BC

1/26/2021

Has this year left you with a some anxiety? You are not alone. Our friends at Backcountry Lodges of BC have given you some tactics to get back to the present, and notice your surroundings with a settled mind. These mindfulness strategies can be used before you drop a line on your skis, or while you are walking through a park on your way to work! Read the full feature on Backcountry Lodges of BC blog.

Pivot your indoor experience with Callaghan Country's Reading List

1/11/2021

Photo is pre-covid - guests are now required to required wear a mask in any of the shared or common areas inside lodge. Masks may only be removed if inside your private accommodation (Nook, Room, or Suite) with the door closed, or when formally seated for your indoor dining experience.

While Callaghan Country traditionally boasts of our unique shared experiences that 'engage patrons with the original warmth and character of traditional alpine culture', like so many other businesses, we've had to 'pivot' on this point. Luckily, connections with the natural world still abound when enjoying recreational pursuits in the outdoors, but we'll all have to hold out on the much anticipated story swapping and Apres vibes until safer days. During these times, there is no longer a ‘shared’ experience inside Journeyman Lodge; rather the focus will shift to intimate solitude in the privacy of your own accommodation…unplugging to reconnect. For that reason, this is the season we're advising all our guests to Bring a good book!

The staff here at Callaghan Country have curated a list of books for winter 2021 that resonate with our mountain loving interests and values. They inspire new connections with the wilderness, offer fresh insights and approaches to live life to the full! We specifically selected each of these reads as they relay stories of resilience, compelling perspectives, and offer some new tips and ideas for your own adventures this year.

And the Staff Picks are...

Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teaching of Plants - Robin Wall Kimmerer
A perfect read for the nature lover! This book aligns the methodologies, values, and findings of empirical science with those of Indigenous traditional knowledge systems for a deeper understanding of the world around us and our relationship with it. Reverence abounds in Robin Wall Kimmerer's writing that is both uplifting and grounding; an ideal read for these strange times.

Autonomy, Mastery and Purpose in the Avalanche Patch- Bruce Kay
Wanting to learn more about your decisions that you make when you're skiing in the backcountry? Bruce Kay delves into avalanche safety and techniques, but also the psychology behind risk taking and making decisions when in avalanche territory.

The Overstory- Richard Powers
Awarded for the Pulitzer Prize for fiction, Powers tells the stories of five different families using five species of North American trees as the central characters. He addresses the issues of deforestation and protecting our forests as they entangle with our daily lives.

Honouring High Places- The Mountain Life of Junko Tabei- Junko Tabei, Helen Y. Rolfe, Yumike Hiraki, and Rieko Holtved
Using the memoir and storied of mountaineer Junko Tabei, this English translation collects memories of the first woman to climb Mount Everest and the Seven Summits. Tabei's stories reflect the difficulties of being a female climber with a passion for mountains, her experience in Japan after World War II, and her death in 2016.

Welcome to the Goddamn Ice Cube: Chasing Fear and Finding Home in the Great White North- Blair Braverman
Braverman commits her life to independence and fearlessness in the arctic. She faces death and survival in her daily life, and describes her strategies to face the risk and fear of living in a place that has the capacity to end your life.

We'd love to hear your book recommendations for the season! Please feel welcome to add yours in the comments below...

A Very Merry Callaghan Christmas!

12/22/2020

As this year comes to an end, we hope that you and your loved ones are able to stay safe this Christmas and you are able to get outside and enjoy the fresh air! We have some last minute opportunities for you to treat yourself, or give the gift of experience!

Gift Certificates
Craving the alpine, or know someone who is? We have gift certificates for you!
Gift certificates for The Journeyman Lodge are available online or can be purchased in person at the Alexander Falls Touring Centre. The certificates are redeemable at any time, even for future seasons! Give the gift experience and deep powder to your wilderness loving friends and family. More Details Here>>

Not in the mood for a trip up the valley? Just come for the day! 'Any day tickets' are also available for day passes at Ski Callaghan, accessing over 90km of beautifully groomed Nordic ski trails. These can be redeemed any time during the 2020-21 season. Give us a call at 604.964.0058 for more details.

Stocking Stuffers
We have everything you need to finish off your stockings that need a final top-up! Come to Access Callaghan Ski Shop, and grab some Journeyman t-shirts, wax and waxing supplies, gloves and ski apparel. Bonus: if you have a seasons pass, you are eligible for 25% off gloves, 20% off wax and 15% off select merchandise and apparel from the store! Give us a call at 604.964.0058 for more details.

Upcoming Events and Promotions at Callaghan Country

11/20/2020

See below for updated Events happening at the Alexander Falls Touring Centre. Come back to this post anytime for the latest promotions and events at your favourite ski shop!

⛷️Trailer drop: “FOLLOW THE FORECAST”

9/29/2020

We are so pleased to support another pre-season stoke production from the BLANK Collective Films crew.

Last year, in the award-winning 7 Stages of Blank, Stan Rey, Alexi Godbout and company offered an explanation into their insanity. This season BLANK Collective Films relinquished control: to the forecast.

Here at Callaghan Country, it's got us giddy stoked and we hope it offers you as much amp for the season ahead. Check out the OFFICIAL TRAILER FOR BLANK COLLECTIVE FILMS' LATEST FILM, “FOLLOW THE FORECAST”...

FOLLOW THE FORECAST chronicles THE BLANK COLLECTIVE’S winter adventures - from their deepest days to date, to first time mountaineering experiences, to rolling the dice on new locations, each objective is documented with classic brother and sister banter.

Shot on location - Shot on location - Whistler Blackcomb, Lake Tahoe, Selkirk Mountains, Revelstoke, SkiBig3, Fernie Alpine Resort, Mt Baker Ski Area, Mt Shuksan, Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing, Callaghan Country / Journeyman Lodge, Whistler & Pemberton Backcountry.

Starring. Stan Rey, Alexi Godbout, Josh Daiek, Chris Rubens, Aaron Blunck, Anna Segal, Jordy Kidner, Cody Townsend, Sam Kuch, Riley Leboe, Barclay Desjardins, Lexi Dupont, Ian Morrison, ABM, Cole Richardson, Sage Cattabirga-Alosa, & Drew Petersen.

Follow the Forecast will premiere online for free through Salomon TV, and will serve as one of the must-see upbeat ski movies of the year.

Stay tuned for additional premiere tour information, film festivals dates and VOD viewing options on Instagram and Facebook at @blankcollectivefilms.
Blankcollectivefilms.com

Supported by: Salomon, Rockstar Energy, Gogglesoc, Forecast Ski Magazine, Whistler Blackcomb, Après Lager & Head.

Produced by: Alexi Godbout, Stan Rey, Jeff Thomas
Directed and Edited by: Jeff Thomas & Alexi Godbout
Principal Cinematography: Scotty Titterington, Hazen Woolson, Jeff Thomas, Blair Richmond
Audio Post Production: Ridgeline Sound
Motion Design: Imperial Post
Graphic Design: Gary Martin

For the Love of Dogs!

2/25/2020

Dog Day @ Callaghan Country

Join us on Saturday, March 7th as we celebrate our love of dogs! Bring your furry friends and come play in the snow!

Humans' best friends are giving us so much love that we decided to give some back. Take your dog(s) on a ski or snowshoe adventure on Dog Day and the money raised from dog trail tickets will be donated to Whistler Animal Galore (WAG) shelter in Whistler.

This year, animation will take place at our Alexander Falls Touring Centre (1st Entrance to Ski Callaghan) with access to all of Ski Callaghan's dog-friendly trails. On-site, you will find WAG accepting donations as well as vendors giving away treats and showcasing their products & services. There will be 2 gift basket draws each with a value of over $75 thanks to generous donations from Eagleview Veterinary Hospital.

Post your photos to social media using #DogsofCallaghan

From our Alexander Falls Touring Centre, Nordic skiers can venture with their dogs on Mainline and Real Life towards Callaghan Lake or reach Porter's Glide and other dog-friendly trails via Wetland Wanderer. Snowshoers can take their dogs on Real Life, Finger Lakes and down to Alexander Falls or reach Marley's Meander via Wetland Wanderer. Light ski tourers are guaranteed tranquility by heading up Mainline and going off the beaten path on Into Woods and reaching Woods Lake; one of less-visited lake in the area.

If you need to rent equipment, our Access Callaghan Shop is conveniently located at our Alexander Falls Base and gives you access to all of Ski Callaghan dog-friendly trails, no need to move your car! Bring your lunch & thermos for a winter picnic outside or in our warming hut or sit by the bonfire and roast S'mores & wieners.

Journeyman Lodge + Backcountry Enlightenment + You = XCamp

2/12/2020

Here at Callaghan Country, we've often stated that our overnight packages are not about the destination, but the "Journey". Whether it be an inward journey or an outright physical challenge, right from check-in we endeavour to awaken your Wild Spirit and sense of 'adventure'. And over the years, that's exactly what most of our guests have done. Embarking on the 13.5km trek into Journeyman Lodge, arriving with either grimace or delight impressed on their faces or taking advantage of our Alpine Touring packages to save their legs for a hike up the surrounding mountain terrain, earning turns and powder filled plunges on descent. The experience in the wilds outside the lodge is unique to each guest’s own goals and perspective. Concurrently, the indoor experience disconnects guests from cell phones and on-the-grid-demands offering quiet freedom amid a comfortable respite. And you're always in good company here; fellow guests swapping stories and engaging in mountain loving camaraderie, ever so subtly, provides a sense of place and community, if only for a few days. Overall it's just a lot of fun, in a special place. BUT, what if you wanted to dig a little deeper? Perhaps, learn why it's such a potent mixture of place and experience for the 'feel goods'? Perhaps, begin to understand how to bring that back into your everyday life?

Cue in the Backcountry Enlightenment Collective, a diverse and dedicated group of professionals including Mountain Guides, Movement and Somatics Leaders, Business/Life Performance Coaches, and a Neuroscientist, all working together to deliver XCamp. It's a 4-day gathering designed to stoke the soul and awaken the spirit; doesn't Journeyman Lodge resonate as an ideal venue and environment for such an endeavour?

Through a combination of knowledge sharing and experiential learning, participants of XCamp will take a deep dive into their mental and physiological states utilizing a variety of modalities (and they all seem pretty fun, don't they?):

﹅ Body movement ﹅ Meditation ﹅ Breathwork ﹅ Cold Water / Hot Sauna transitioning ﹅ Forest Bathing
﹅ Skiing ﹅ Somatic experiencing ﹅ Personal mission and vision coaching ﹅ Music ﹅ Dance ﹅ Community

Curious about how this all ties together? Mountain Life Magazine's recent winter edition featured Whistler-based writer, editor, biologist, Leslie Anthony's, reflection on his experience during last season's XCamp Read it here >>

Leveraging embodied experience and modern technology to provide realtime feedback and observation, facilitators will work with camp-goers to investigate how our internal states relate and affect one another, also identifying opportunities and techniques to optimize and access preferred states more readily in different environments. Key state in target, FLOW, or 'the zone'. It's the mental state all those high achievers seem to mention nonchalantly when recalling the act in itself.

Alongside the curation of personal learning inquiries and immersive experiences bringing participants deeper into themselves, XCamp facilitators are proud to offer a heart-centred approach to their camp delivery. The intimate size and unplugged nature of Journeyman Lodge as a venue provides a perfect setting for unfettered connection. Each professional has a unique opportunity to be fully present in an active and relational learning process with camp-goers.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UPCOMING 2020 XCAMP

Ultimately, Backcountry Enlightenment aims to offer XCamp participants the environment, knowledge, fellowship, and tools to come into full alignment with their true selves...

"At Backcountry Enlightenment, we believe in the unlimited capacity of the human spirit. We seek more grounded and present flow states. Through a combination of neuroscience technology, embodied movement, deep-nature connection and like-minded people our eclectic tribe of professionals guide clients on a deep journey towards your inner selves. We carefully design and facilitate activities that push our participants towards new ways of being and make a positive and sustainable impact on the world."

XCamp with Backcountry Enlightenment is scheduled at Journeyman Lodge: April 10-13, 2020...only a few spots left
Questions can be directed to: Brent Martin, Director of Mischief | Cell: (604) 506-7124 | Email: freedom.bm@gmail.com

Valentine's Day

2/4/2020

We are happy to invite you and your special someone to celebrate Valentine's Day on snow at Callaghan Country. For this occasion we are offering 2-for-1 rentals on February 14th. To participate, meet us at Access Callaghan and ask for "Cupid's Special".

*The promotion is only available for day use only.