Chilko Lake Pack Trip

Introduction
British Columbia Canada

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.

We are out with Mother Nature, sleeping in tents or weather permitting under the open sky. No roads, no phones; just pristine wilderness, clean mountain air, crystal clean water, open meadows, and spectacular views.

Accomodation

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 .

A guide and a cook will accompany you.

Riding

Itinerary

Sunday: A 9:30 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.

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 Friday: 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. Overnight and farewell dinner at the lodge.

Sunday: Morning flight back to Vancouver - arriving early afternoon.

Due to weather conditions or other circumstances this trip may alternate to our popular Wild Potato Mountain ride.

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.

Subject to change

Rates and Dates for Chilko Lake Pack Trip

Dates Note: Sun- Sun

Other Info
Meeting: Chilko Lake
Airport: Vancouver International
Transfer: Vancouver - South Terminal - Esso Avitat at 9:30 AM

Climate:

The months of 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 oC).

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, or leave things out just keep in mind it all has to fit into one duffle bag and a maximum of 25 lbs.
We highly 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 (limited).

Tents are provided (dome tents) - possibly some cots in the high mountain camp- but not guaranteed. You need to bring your own sleeping bag!

SADDLE BAGS are provided for riders.