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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Canada
Intro to Canada
Alberta British Columbia
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Chilko Explorer and Pack Trip Combo
British Columbia
Canada
Pack Trip: A very special riding tour inside Tsylos Provincial Park, British Columbia. The park underlies very strict environmental rules making it a perfect setting for a wilderness trail-ride deep into the backcountry away from all civilization. The ‘Goat Camp Valley’ is rugged, wild and absolutely beautiful - home of the mighty Mountain Goat.
The photo opportunities are some of the best in the world, amidst rugged glaciers, mountain meadows, alpine flowers, crystal clear lakes and streams, and wildlife. The vistas and settings are too beautiful to put into words. Or you may explore the "Wild Potato Range" with breathtaking green alpine valleys, lakes and canyons.
Chilko Explorer: This trip was designed for the intermediate to advanced rider looking for an exciting riding adventure in breathtaking country while enjoying the comforts of a wilderness lodge at night. After an exhilarating day in the outdoors you can play volleyball or horse-shoes, relax in the whirlpool on the front porch overlooking the Chilko Valley; or just relax in front of the large wood-burning fireplace exchanging stories with your fellow riders. Exceptional meals and fine wines are served family style. One day during the week you will take part in a float trip down Chilko River or sightseeing boat ride up Chilko Lake.
Camping Ride with vehicle support Camping Ride with pack horses Center-based ride
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Meeting:
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Chilko Lake
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Airport:
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Vancouver International
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Transfer:
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Vancouver 9:30 AM (check in 45 min prior)South Terminal Signature building
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
Max
10 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2019
Rates include*:
One week lodge rides and one week pack trip, all meals, 13 riding days
A | 2019 | 15 day trip, AP Potato Range + Lodge Ride | 15d / 14n | $5240 |
B | 2019 | 15 day trip, AP Goat Camp + Lodge Ride | 15d / 14n | $5240 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
GST (VAT) 5%
Transfer and Other Charges:
2019
|
Xeni Gwetin First Nations User Fee and charter flights from/to Vancouver (not optional)
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$650
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2019
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Single supplement (lodge portion)
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$850
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Charter flight is not optionall.
Do not book a return flight before 4:00 PM on Sunday.
Tour Dates for 2019
Check here for details and availability
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A |
2019
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07/14
- 07/28
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15d / 14n
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15 day trip, AP Potato Range...
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4
/10
|
Reserve
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B |
2019
|
07/21
- 08/04
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15d / 14n
|
15 day trip, AP Goat Camp + ...
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4
/10
|
Reserve
|
A |
2019
|
07/28
- 08/11
|
15d / 14n
|
15 day trip, AP Potato Range...
|
4
/10
|
Reserve
|
A |
2019
|
08/04
- 08/18
|
15d / 14n
|
15 day trip, AP Potato Range...
|
4
/10
|
Reserve
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|
Sun-Sun
|
Rates do not include:
Alcoholic beverages other than wine with dinner.
Sleeping bag, gratuities.
Single supplement for lodge part only
Pack Trip - Sample Itinerary. (Goat Mountain Range)
Sunday: A 8:30 am flight with a 12 passenger aircraft takes you from Vancouver across the magnificent glaciers of the coastal mountains to Chilko Lake, where Karen McLean greats you at the private landing strip of the ranch. After lunch and a short introduction you get a chance to test your horse on a 2-hour ride. Upon return some cool drinks on the porch and then a delicious dinner with fine wines await you. Overnight in tents.
Monday: In the morning of day two you start your pack trip returning in the afternoon of day seven after spending 6 days in pristine wilderness.
The ride goes high up into Goat Country. It is rugged, wild and absolutely beautiful! You ride along Chilko Lake for a day spending the first night at Moose Lagoon.
Tuesday to Saturday: Then you cut up into the Goat Valley where you spend four unforgettable days riding over mountain tops and through breathtaking valleys. Towering 11,000 foot peaks surround the base camp with three large glaciers rising out of the valley floor at the south end.
No roads, no phones, the perfect get-away and a chance to get back to the essentials of life. The abundance of alpine flowers throughout the valleys and surrounding mountains is overwhelming. The whistle of the plentiful marmots accompany you on each day to new mountain peaks and wild valleys. Goat Camp is named after the majestic Mountain Goats that call this area home. Often wild deer visit you in camp to nibble on the grain. We use a pioneer tent with cook stove, table and benches for a warm, relaxing evening dinner. We might tell some tales while sitting by a roaring bonfire watching the many stars or the Northern Lights. This trip offers plenty of time to relax, hike, photograph wildflowers or wildlife. If the group so desires, the last day offers an optional fast return ride to the lodge on Saturday for nice hot shower and clean clothes. A farewell dinner at the lodge and your last night in your tent.
Sunday: Morning flight back to Vancouver - arriving early afternoon.
--The above sample itinerary is for the Goat Mountain Range, depending on the conditions and time of year, this may be substituted for the Potato Mountain Range. --
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pack Trip - Sample Itinerary. (Potato Mountain Range)
Sunday: You are met from the light aircraft flight and transferred to Tsylos Park Lodge. After lunch an introduction to the trip and gear (saddlebags, duffle bags, sleeping mats and tents). Later meet the horses and a short introductory ride. After dinner time to repack your duffle bags for the trail ahead. Overnight in tents near to the Lodge.
Monday: Head out from the ranch, climbing about 4,000 feet to the high alpine, with views of Chilko Lake and the Coast Mountains. Camp is by a small lake hidden in the valley, where you can swim or fish for small trout. (Approximately 5 ½ hours)
Tuesday: From Fish Lake you continue climbing to higher alpine plateaus and cross over to Echo Lake. The camp is situated on the shores of small lake and overlooks the Echo Valley. The lake is cold, but great for swimming. Stay here for two nights. (Approximately 4 -5 hours)
Wednesday: This is a free day and you can choose to spend the day in camp relaxing, hiking, or join the ride and explore the neighboring mountains. Take a nap on the side of an alpine meadow surrounded by majestic mountains and alpine wildflowers. If conditions are good, there may be a small amount of cantering on the ride.
Thursday: Pack up Camp and head north with Stunning views and changing scenery. The countryside changes from mountain valleys to softer slopes, and descends about 4,000 feet into Tatlayoko Valley. At the steepest part of the descent you will be asked to hike down the mountain for about 30 minutes to assist your horse. Camp is located adjacent to Tatlayoko Lake, ideal for swimming. Tatlayoko Lake and valley is a small ranching community. On Thursday the trip meets the truck, and all gear is transported by vehicle from here. This means there may be possibilities for some canters on the last two days. (Approximately 6 hours)
Friday
Camp is packed by vehicle and you ride through Lincoln pass to Choelquote Lake. If conditions allow there may be some canters where trail conditions allow. Choelquote Lake is a warmer mountain lake and offers beautiful sunsets and open grasslands along the eastern part of the lake. (Approximately 6 hours)
Saturday: Camp is packed and taken by vehicle to the lodge whilst you saddle up and ride along Choelquote Lake, crossing the Chilko River by bridge. Travel along the Chilko River which, if conditions allow, offers nice canters throughout the ride. (Approximately 4.5 hours)
Arrive back at the lodge where camp has been set up for you. Time for a hot shower, soak in the Jacuzzi and a cold beer or drink on the decks prior to the barbecue.
Sunday: After an early morning breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Vancouver, or join us at the lodge for another week of a seven night lodge riding vacation, or fly fishing trip.
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Goat Mountain Range
We travel along the shores of Chilko Lake , before we climb up to our Goat Camp base at 6,500 feet. Rugged peaks surround the valley and tower at about 10,000 feet. From the base camp we spend the next few days exploring the awesome and rugged beauty of Goat Camp. This trip offers plenty of time to relax, hike, photograph wildflowers, and wildlife. Mountain Goat, Mule Deer, Bear, and Mountain Marmots make their home here. Goat Camp is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. After exploring by horseback the many mountain peaks and valleys, you return to base camp in time to enjoy a glass of wine, watch the stars come out over the valley, and listen to the tinkling of the horse bells as the munch happily in this spectacular mountain valley. The majority of the trip is walking, due to the terrain except the last day back to the Lodge where there is some trotting and cantering!! The majority of the trip is walking, due to the terrain and the packhorses, except the last day back to the Lodge where there is some trotting and cantering!!
The Potato Mountain Range
The Wild Potato Mountains offer a multitude of different kind of scenery and riding styles: Ride through high alpine plateaus, hidden valleys, deep mountain passes, and open sandy beaches. Enjoy the splendid views, the immense variety of wildflowers, ancient fossil beds, and the companionship of your fellow riders.
The First Nation's Legend says that a woman once traveled across this range of mountains planting wild potatoes, thus the name "Potato Range". This circular trip combines the spectacular beauty of the Coast Range Mountains as well as the faster riding of the Chilcotin Plateau. Our explorations will take us from one spectacular campsite to another. Each camp is nestled adjacent to a pristine lake. We change camps all but one day. The riding speed is primarily at a walk until the last two days where we will do some trotting and cantering. On the last two days we drop down to the Tatlayoko Valley, and the camp is met by the truck. The truck transports the camp so we are able to canter the last couple of days of the trip. This is a beautiful trip, with amazing vistas and blankets of wildflowers!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chilko Explorer - Sample Itinerary.
Sunday: An early morning charter flight takes you from Vancouver across the magnificent glaciers of the coastal mountains to Chilko Lake, where Karen McLean will greet you at the private landing strip of the ranch (or close by Anahim Lake and road transfer). After lunch and a short introduction you get a chance to test your horse on an afternoon ride.
Monday: After breakfast we ride through fir forests to Green Lake. Along the way we stop for a picnic at the lake. In the afternoon there are some wonderful opportunities to canter on soft forest trails.
Tuesday: We ride up the steep trails of Mount Tullin. The ride takes us through magnificent fir forests to the timberline. From the summit it takes a 20-minute hike to reach the top of the mountain. Soak in the panorama of the Coast Mountains and 55 mile long Chilko Lake with its turquoise waters and the breathtaking beauty of Tsylos Park.
Wednesday: One day during your stay the riders will head up beautiful Chilko Lake. Pristine Chilko Lake is the largest natural high mountain lake in North America. Surrounded by glaciers, rugged towering peaks, roaring creeks and rivers, waterfalls, and of course the wildlife.
Due to the glacial silt, Chilko Lake has a gorgeous turquoise coloring. The views, whether looking down on her or up from her, are unbelievable. You might have a chance to visit the old mining cabin at Franklin Arm and hike up to the waterfalls, or spend some time at a creek, fishing for Dolly Varden. This is a day that you will not want to miss! Optionally you will take part in a river float trip down Chilko River instead.
Thursday: We enjoy many brisk canters across the Chilcotin plateau and along the Chilko river. Advanced riders will enjoy the "roller coaster" rides on narrow, windy forest trails. Due to the fast pace of these rides you have to be able to develop a good feeling and communicate well with your horse. It is excellent for stretching your riding abilities and building your confidence. Both the horse and rider find it fun and challenging. But not to worry, the horses are well trained and easily controllable. We stop for a nice picnic by the river with its fast flowing waters.
Friday: A long day-ride across the plateau to Choelquoit Lake with the opportunity to take a dip in the cool water. Enjoy a picnic at the sandy beach with awesome views of Niut, Chilko & Tsuniah mountains.
Saturday: A brisk ride takes you along the Chilko river to Henry's crossing. Enjoy a well deserved lunch break on the only bridge that spans the river. In September you can watch natives fishing for salmon here. In the afternoon we canter along the east side of the river to Canoe Crossing always with the whole mountain range in clear view. The horses swim across the river and freely gallop home while a boat ride takes you back to the ranch. In the evening a fabulous farewell dinner with barbecue awaits you.
Sunday: Return flight after breakfast or start of another wilderness ride.
--This sample itinerary is subject to changes at the tour operator's discretion.--
Meeting:
Chilko Lake
Airport:
Vancouver International
Transfer:
Vancouver 9:30 AM (check in 45 min prior)South Terminal Signature building
Distance:
1 hour flight
Charter flight is not optionall.
Do not book a return flight before 4:00 PM on Sunday.
Tack:
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Western
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Horses:
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Quarter, Arab, Appaloosa, Paint, Draft and Thoroughbred
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Pace:
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Slow with steep slopes. 4-6 hours in the saddle per day.
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Level:
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|
(3
to
3
out of 5) Intermediate
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Weight:
|
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Max
220
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Riders:
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|
Min
4 riders
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Max
10 riders
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|
Our guides love the outdoors, riding and are experienced horse people. They can help you make the transition from English riding to the Western riding style. If you have never ridden with Western tack or saddle, do not worry. Your guide will show you the proper horse cues and show you how to tack your horse up. The guides can ensure that you are matched with the right horse for your riding ability and personality. Our equipment and tack are well maintained and fitted to the individual horses.
We normally keep around 35 horses. Our herd is a mixture of different breeds, sizes and colours. You will be amazed at how well they do their job! They are chosen and bred for their disposition, endurance, and strength. Most are ranch raised and are all very comfortable on the trail and in the mountains. They will be a big part of your trip and deserve all the extra love that they can get!
Riding is a physical experience. It brings all of our senses alive. It is the smell of a good horse, of leather, the fresh scent of a pine or fir forest, it is the sound of cantering hooves, of crackling leaves, of horses snorting or a soft whinny. It is the seeing of new country and spectacular vistas unexplored. It is the feeling of a strong animal beneath you, of you own strength and ability, and although few words are spoken, lines of communication between horse & rider are shared and understood. It's the freedom to just ride for miles!
All riding groups are kept small. Our guests are usually intermediate riders allowing us to enjoy great canters through the forests or across open meadows. All riders should be able to canter and be comfortable in the saddle for the Lodge Riding. Many of our guests do not ride regularly, and need a few rides or lessons before their vacation to feel comfortable in the saddle again. It will make your trip to Tsylos Park Lodge all that much better!
Tree riding is a big part of your week. We like to take some of our windy trails at a fast trot or slow canter; we even named one of our rides as the "roller coaster". It is great for stretching your ability and improving your confidence. It is a lot of fun and we know that you will love it! We always take one day out of the week to head up 52 mile-long Chilko Lake for a tour and some casual fishing. This lake is a true wonder! Surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks, the scenery is unmatched.
On our Wilderness Pack Trips you will be introduced to your saddle horse on the day you arrive. For the week that you are here, your horse is your trusted traveling companion. With your horse you will get your own western saddle, saddle blanket, bridle, halter, and lead rope, as well as your own set of saddle bags to carry your camera and any day time items that you need. We also have some chaps that are available at the lodge, but we do recommend you bring your own for personal fit and comfort. You are welcome to use ours if you like.
Our herd is a mixture of many different breeds (Quarter, Arab, Appaloosa, Paint, Draft and Thoroughbred) and you will be amazed at how well they do their job! We use horses to pack our camps and personal belongings from place to place. Usually we take 3-5 packhorses on a weeklong trip, depending on the size of the group. We choose our horses for their personality, trustworthiness, and beauty.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least one day beyond the intended departure date from Canada required by all nationals referred to in the chart except the following: (a) 1. Canadian citizens holding a Canadian . more
Alexis Creek area
Month
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Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
Average High Temperature (°F)
|
25
|
33
|
47
|
56
|
65
|
71
|
75
|
76
|
67
|
52
|
34
|
23
|
Average Low Temperature (°F)
|
9
|
12
|
21
|
28
|
36
|
43
|
46
|
45
|
37
|
28
|
18
|
7
|
Average High Temperature (°C)
|
-4
|
1
|
8
|
13
|
18
|
21
|
24
|
24
|
19
|
11
|
1
|
-5
|
Average Low Temperature (°C)
|
-13
|
-11
|
-6
|
-2
|
2
|
6
|
8
|
7
|
3
|
-2
|
-8
|
-14
|
Average Precipitation (days of rain)
|
4
|
2
|
2
|
3
|
6
|
9
|
8
|
7
|
5
|
5
|
5
|
5
|
Source: NOAA
Seasons
The months during which we operate our trips (May, June and September) are usually warm during the daytime, but can get cool in the evenings. During July and August you can expect temperatures in the low 70's to mid 90's Fahrenheit (18 to 30 °C).
Spring
Spring is a burst of new energy and the warmth of the sun. It is new vibrant colors from the first blade of green grass, to the budding of a new leaf, crisp blue skies, and snowcapped peaks. With the spring the river gains in size and large migrations of Sockeye Salmon fry and smolt take place. With a billion one-year old Sockeye heading to the Pacific Ocean and billions of minute fry hatching and making their way to Chilko Lake, the Rainbow Trout and Bull Trout congregate in the river for a feast. Steelheads are spotted spawning in the shallows and leaping out of the Chilko River to have a look around. Wild roses and Sunflowers are starting to bloom on the side hills, giving the land more and more color.
Summer
Summertime means big hatches, blue skies, warm days, alpine trips and wildflowers. Dry fly fishing on the river starts and the laughter can be heard from trail where the riders are cantering through the trees along the water. Life does not get any better than this!
Indian Summer
Indian Summer in September and October is a very special time of year at Chilko. It is an explosion of autumn colors, an abundance of wildlife, and an orchestra of sounds. With the changing seasons the Sockeye & Chinook salmon return in vast numbers, spawning on the river and lake. The water wiggles with red spawning fish, bringing down the Grizzly Bear, Black Bear, Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, Herons, Ducks, Ospreys, and other wildlife to feast on the dead salmon that have already laid their eggs for the cycle to begin all over. This is a wonderful time to visit!
Winter
Soft falling snowflakes bury the earth and silence falls within our valley. The Trumpeter Swans move into Chilko and add their grace and beauty to the splendor of the frozen land. Only the running water of Chilko River reminds us of earlier times, and the seasons to come.
To make this trip most memorable you need to be prepared for all weather conditions. All riders are part of a team and need to be able to depend on each other. Everybody helps out and is in charge of his/her own horse and gear. Proper clothing is essential. The equipment list is meant to be a loose checklist. Feel free to add things, just keep in mind it all has to fit into one duffle bag and a maximum of 25 lbs. We recommend bringing your own “down” sleeping bag; we can supply duffle bag and sleeping mat. Extra items can be left at the lodge during your ride. Most riding is in the high alpine. The pace is mostly slow, but we have three riding days with opportunities for some faster riding since they are without pack horses.
SADDLE BAGS are provided for riders.
This list is only a guideline for you |
|
Travel documents and Voucher |
Flight tickets |
Passport |
Visa (check with your consulate) |
|
RIDING GEAR |
Two pairs of riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!) |
Rubber Riding Boots for wet ground and rain |
Riding Chaps (We also supply) |
Riding helmet (recommended for all trips) **we do not have any to borrow |
Riding gloves |
Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
Water Bottle |
Rain coat, Windbreaker, Rain pants |
|
PERSONAL CLOTHING |
Warm jacket and sweater |
Three Shirts, T Shirts |
Jeans |
Shorts |
Underwear and socks |
Light Long Underwear |
Pyjama |
Bag for dirty clothes |
Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
Swimsuit |
Bandana |
|
For Camping trips: |
Sleeping Bag (rated for –20 or better) |
Ground Mat (Thermarest or foam mattress) |
Light long underwear |
Biodegradable Soap |
Biodegradable Shampoo |
Biodegradable Toothpaste |
Towel |
|
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
Personal Toiletries |
Insect protection |
Personal medications |
Sore cream (for an emergency) |
Moisturizing Cream |
Hair Dryer if needed |
Handkerchiefs |
Camera and enough extra film or batteries |
Belt pack |
Sun glasses with strap |
Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
Flashlight, extra batteries |
Small Binoculars |
Pocket Knife |
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Wilderness Pack Trip:
On the first and last night of this week long trip you are accommodated at the lodge, either in one of our cabins, or if not available, in our very comfortable tent camp near the lodge.
Accommodations are 2-person dome tents with a comfortable sleeping mat.
Our campfire gourmet meals are prepared over an open fire and are delicious and plentiful. All our food is freshly prepared and made with the utmost cleanliness and care. Freshly prepared salads, meats, pastas, and vegetables are prepared daily and cooked over the open fire. Everything is packed with us on our steady pack horses.
We also take a mini bar which is chosen prior to leaving the lodge. It is beautiful to get to camp after a gorgeous ride for the day, get your home away from home set up, the horses staked out, and enjoy a glass of wine while dinner sizzles over the campfire.
When on the pack trip there is very limited or no vehicle support. All equipment and food will be transported by pack horses. Pack light.
Chilko Explorer Ride:
For this trip you will be staying at Tsylos Park Lodge and returning back home to a wonderful evening meal, cold drinks, time by the fireplace and a relaxing hot tub under the stars. It is also a great trip combined with our Mountain Pack Trip, which takes you far into the back country of Chilko Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Lodging
We accommodate 16 guests at the lodge in our four individual rooms and three log cabins. All of our rooms and cabins have private bathrooms with showers. Our main lodge and dining area has a large stone fireplace, comfortable couches, a hot tub on the back porch and of course a stunning view of the mountains and Chilko River. Many evenings are spent sharing our daily adventures around the fireplace with a cocktail, soaking in the hot tub looking at the stars or playing horseshoes along the river.
Our accommodations are rustic, but very comfortable. There is daily maid service to ensure that your room or cabin is kept comfortable for your stay at the lodge.
Please note there is no cell reception.
Meals
Life at the lodge is focused around the great outdoors. The gathering of everyone for meals is a special time of the day. We serve all of our meals at the lodge "family style."
Wonderful Canadian breakfasts as well as fresh fruits, cereals, yogurts, and juices are served before you active day on the river, lake or trail.
Lunch is spent streamside, on top of a mountain, or wherever your wanderings have taken you, giving you total freedom throughout the day.
Our evening meal is especially nice...after a great day, everyone can relax with a good meal, a glass of wine and great company, sharing stories from their adventures. Wonderful meat dishes, breads, salads, pastas, vegetables, delicious desserts and table wines are served. This is all "no guilt" eating, as your active day ahead needs the energy!
Tack:
|
|
Western
|
Horses:
|
|
Quarter, Arab, Appaloosa, Paint, Draft and Thoroughbred
|
Pace:
|
|
Slow with steep slopes. 4-6 hours in the saddle per day.
|
Level:
|
|
(3
to
3
out of 5) Intermediate
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
220
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
4 riders
|
Max
10 riders
|
|
Our guides love the outdoors, riding and are experienced horse people. They can help you make the transition from English riding to the Western riding style. If you have never ridden with Western tack or saddle, do not worry. Your guide will show you the proper horse cues and show you how to tack your horse up. The guides can ensure that you are matched with the right horse for your riding ability and personality. Our equipment and tack are well maintained and fitted to the individual horses.
We normally keep around 35 horses. Our herd is a mixture of different breeds, sizes and colours. You will be amazed at how well they do their job! They are chosen and bred for their disposition, endurance, and strength. Most are ranch raised and are all very comfortable on the trail and in the mountains. They will be a big part of your trip and deserve all the extra love that they can get!
Riding is a physical experience. It brings all of our senses alive. It is the smell of a good horse, of leather, the fresh scent of a pine or fir forest, it is the sound of cantering hooves, of crackling leaves, of horses snorting or a soft whinny. It is the seeing of new country and spectacular vistas unexplored. It is the feeling of a strong animal beneath you, of you own strength and ability, and although few words are spoken, lines of communication between horse & rider are shared and understood. It's the freedom to just ride for miles!
All riding groups are kept small. Our guests are usually intermediate riders allowing us to enjoy great canters through the forests or across open meadows. All riders should be able to canter and be comfortable in the saddle for the Lodge Riding. Many of our guests do not ride regularly, and need a few rides or lessons before their vacation to feel comfortable in the saddle again. It will make your trip to Tsylos Park Lodge all that much better!
Tree riding is a big part of your week. We like to take some of our windy trails at a fast trot or slow canter; we even named one of our rides as the "roller coaster". It is great for stretching your ability and improving your confidence. It is a lot of fun and we know that you will love it! We always take one day out of the week to head up 52 mile-long Chilko Lake for a tour and some casual fishing. This lake is a true wonder! Surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks, the scenery is unmatched.
On our Wilderness Pack Trips you will be introduced to your saddle horse on the day you arrive. For the week that you are here, your horse is your trusted traveling companion. With your horse you will get your own western saddle, saddle blanket, bridle, halter, and lead rope, as well as your own set of saddle bags to carry your camera and any day time items that you need. We also have some chaps that are available at the lodge, but we do recommend you bring your own for personal fit and comfort. You are welcome to use ours if you like.
Our herd is a mixture of many different breeds (Quarter, Arab, Appaloosa, Paint, Draft and Thoroughbred) and you will be amazed at how well they do their job! We use horses to pack our camps and personal belongings from place to place. Usually we take 3-5 packhorses on a weeklong trip, depending on the size of the group. We choose our horses for their personality, trustworthiness, and beauty.
Passports
Passport valid for at least one day beyond the intended departure date from Canada required by all nationals referred to in the chart except the following:
(a) 1. Canadian citizens holding a Canadian Certificate of Identity, Canadian birth certificate or a certificate of Canadian citizenship;
(b) permanent residents of Canada with proof of status, ie Permanent Resident Card, Record of Landing, Returning Resident Permit or a Refugee Travel Document issued by the government of Canada to refugees who have been resettled in Canada;
(c) 2. citizens of the USA holding proof of citizenship (eg US birth certificate or US naturalisation papers).
Note: As of 23 January 2007 all persons, including US citizens, travelling by air between the USA and Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda are required to present a valid passport or other approved document when entering or re-entering the USA. Similar requirements for those travelling by land or sea will be introduced as early as 1 January 2008. For further details about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, visit the website of the US Department of State: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html.
(d) persons entering from St Pierre & Miquelon or the USA who are legal permanent residents of the USA and hold a US alien registration card (Green Card);
(e) 3. citizens of France who are residents of and entering from St Pierre & Miquelon.
Note: (a) Children under 18 years must have information with them on the people responsible for their welfare, if travelling alone; this includes a letter of permission to travel from guardian(s), and also a letter from the custodian in Canada. (b) Depending on circumstance and nationality, certain applicants may need to undergo a medical examination in order to receive their visas; this must be carried out by a physician on Canada's list of Designated Medical Practitioners.
Passport Note
Visitors to Canada must satisfy an examining officer at the Port of Entry that they are genuine visitors, in good health, with no criminal convictions, and have sufficient funds to maintain themselves during their stay in Canada and to return to their country of origin, as well as evidence of confirmed onward reservations out of Canada. Persons under 18 years of age who are unaccompanied by an adult should bring with them a letter from a parent or guardian giving them permission to travel to Canada.
Identity/travel documents issued to non-national residents of the country of issue, refugees or stateless persons are recognized for travel to Canada.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in chart above (visitor or transit) for stays of up to six months except the following:
(a) 4. holders of passports endorsed ‘British Subjects’ and ‘British Protected Persons’;
(b) 5. nationals of Bulgaria and Romania;
(c) those visiting Canada who, during that visit, also visit the USA or St Pierre & Miquelon (a French Overseas Territory) and return directly to Canada as visitors within the period authorised on their initial entry (or any extension thereto).
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the high commission to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
The Government of Canada refuses admission to: (a) holders of passports issued by the UK Government entitled 'British Temporary Resident's Passport'.
(a) A single-entry visa is still valid if used to visit the USA. (b) Persons wishing to attend a course of six months duration or less, at any level, do not require a study permit. However, if there is the possibility that you will extend your period of study in Canada, or if you are a full time student and wish to work on campus, you may apply for a study permit.
Types of Visa and Cost
Visitor: C$75 (single-entry); C$150 (multiple-entry). Family: C$400 (for families of six or more persons). Transit: free. Transit visas are necessary for all nationals who require a visitor visa. Although transit visas are not required by British citizens, they may be required by foreign nationals with British passports; check with the embassy or high commission for details. For further information on payment methods, contact the high commission. Prices are subject to frequent change.
Validity
Up to six months depending on circumstances of individual applicant. The determination regarding length of stay in Canada can only be decided by the examining officer at the port of entry, but visas cannot exceed the validity of the passport and cannot be longer than five years. If no actual departure date is indicated within the visitor’s passport, then the visitor will be required to depart within three months from the date of entry. Visitors must effect their departure from Canada on or before the date authorised by the examining officer on arrival. If an extension of stay is desired, an application must be made in writing to the nearest Canada Immigration Centre at least three weeks before the expiry of the visitor visa. Multiple-entry visas cannot be valid longer than passport. Transit visas are only allocated if a national's flight/onward journey is continuing within 24 hours. Single-entry visas can be used multiple times by nationals of St Pierre & Miquelon and the USA.
Applications to:
Consulate (or consular section at embassy or high commission)
Working Days Required
10 days are required from receiving applications, but applications should be made at least one month prior to the intended date of departure. Certain nationals are subject to longer processing times. For urgent applications it is advised to apply in person. Same-day processing is available for applications made in person and 24-hour processing for those using the drop-in service.
Passport Required? |
British |
Yes |
Australian |
Yes |
Canadian |
1 |
USA |
2 |
Other EU |
3 |
Visa Required? |
British |
No/4 |
Australian |
No |
Canadian |
N/A |
USA |
No |
Other EU |
5 |
Return Ticket Required? |
British |
Yes |
Australian |
Yes |
Canadian |
N/A |
USA |
No |
Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Chilko Explorer and Pack Trip Combo
Tour Code:
RTBC08
15 days /
14 nights
~$5,240.00
Dates :
July to Aug
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained A | Beginner  | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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