​Snow has melted, bugs are beginning to fade, and nature's colour palette is emerging in full vibrancy.  It's finally here! The seasonal transformation of the Callaghan Valley is as dramatic as the landscape itself.  This season, we are keen to share this special place in its prime summer abundance by opening the doors of Journeyman Lodge to hikers from September 8th - 23rd.

This will be a special time to meet some of the actual 'Journeymen' of 'Journeyman Lodge'...they carry the passion and the vision that has propelled Callaghan Country forward all these years, so go ahead and ask them for those stories!   ​

The primary summer access route to Journeyman Lodge is a hike-in from Callaghan Lake Provincial Park.  During the late summer and early autumn months, Callaghan Lake is accessible by high clearance two wheel drive vehicle (driver's discretion advised). You can park your vehicle and follow a well defined hiking trail leading west from the BC Parks campsite for 4.5 kilometres. to the lodge. The trail is signed and climbs gently through a variety of West Coast forest types. The elevation gain is 150 metre elevation over 4.5 kilometres. Please allow about two hours (one way) from the trailhead to the lodge.   ​By day, trek and explore the spectacular surroundings of Callaghan Country.  By night, enjoy a family style meal, chatting with fellow guests, the warmth of a log-fire, and a good night’s sleep.

Round up the crew.  
Define the group...would these be friends from the highschool or college era? Would it be a posse that's bonded over outdoor pursuits? Hey, some of us even like the people we work with.  At any rate, pitch the idea and feel out the response.  Are spouses/partners joining?  This can be a bit of a double edged sword; if our mates are a natural part of the crew, the social dynamic is likely to flow with ease and the beefier head count can help snag some nice group savings.  On the other hand, a not-so-familiar partner may find themselves particularly insecure among your peeps and as a result, reliably crusty and withholding.  We've all experienced this dark cloud at one point or another, and its a familiar buzz-kill that's easy to avoid when simple group limits have been announced, "Sorry, muffin.  We've storied this trip for ages and now we're gonna make it happen.  No spouses."

Crunch the numbers.  Make a plan. 
How much is everyone willing to spend?  Be thoughtful not to stretch that friend who's only working part-time or still paying off a massive debt.  Friendships can cross financial boundaries.  If some buds are hell-bent on upping the ante on 'rich' experiences, would your group consider a proportional to income approach to the the budget?  Keep the budget in mind as you work out an ideal itinerary and be sure to maintain your priorities...the ski days.  Reference and tally all the costs associated with your itinerary and confirm it's a go with the crew.

Take the money & Lock it in
In taking reservations I know, first hand, you should get your friends to fork it over before booking anything.  It's nice to think that your peeps would be the last leave you hanging but, realistically, until that cash is in your hand...it's a recipe for friendship disaster.  You're going to see way more deals if you pre-book and purchase major trip elements with a credit card; as the trip organizer, that's likely going to be your credit card (think: flights, accommodations, gear rentals, tickets).  At this stage, be sure to seek out group discounts.  Many tourism operators are happy to offer some sort of deal when you are bringing more than a few people to their point of commerce.  Sometimes this is obvious and already laid out; usually, its in the cards if you've got the gumption to ask, "Since I'm booking this as one hefty transaction, can you offer me a better rate?".  Seriously consider trip cancellation and medical insurance.  Print, save, and prepare everything as it happens.

Communicate!  Experiences come with expectations, be sure to manage them
Hopefully you've already read the fine print, but make sure everyone else knows about that stuff too.  It's amazing how commonplace assumptions can be, and they sure have an affinity to make things awkward.  Are you anticipating a scenario where gratuities might be in order?  Are rentals going to be available on at the mountain or in the village?  Do you have vegan bud?  There's an obvious vibe when everyone's on the same page and it's up to you to ensure it's a positive one.

So, now you have the steps.  Make it happen.  Turns out the drive to share our experiences with each other is innate and with the proper execution, your ski vacation can deliver moments that will seem to matter more.  Escaping to the mountains with our peeps makes for the best kind of bonding.  Get to it.  Forge those golden memories.