 |
 |
 |
|
||
 |
|
 |
|
||
For Email Marketing you can trust
View our blog
Subscribe
For those who want to add a bit of luxury to their Chilcotin Holidays wilderness adventure, arrive in style in an executive helicopter. Relax in sumptuous leather seats in the climate controlled aircraft, luxuriate in the spacious interior and rest assured with the many advanced safety features. When money isn’t a question, choose the quiet, fast and safe ride in the new generation Eurocopter EC120 Helicopter.
Fly directly from Vancouver Airport to our Ranch and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the ranges of south-western British Columbia. See the South Chilcotin Mountains looming up between the Coast Mountains and the Chilcotin Plateau and fly through canyons, as your helicopter gently soars over lakes shimmering underneath the midday sun and hovers for a moment over the expansive fields of flowering meadows below.
Another option for the aviation enthusiast is flying high in a float plane. From Vancouver Harbour to our Ranch, take to the skies as the plane skims the water’s surface for take off. For flight options and cost, contact us for details.
Our “5 Star Wilderness Experiences” have always proved popular with our German, Swiss and Austrian guests. We always try to “speak” our guests’ language, so we have been working on updating and revising the German translations of our product descriptions, prices and schedules as well as selected trip itineraries. We hope these translations will prove useful for our German speaking clients. If you would like a copy of these translations to help understand our Ranch and Wilderness products, contact us at Chilcotin Holidays.
Our most recent group of advanced and experienced riders arrived at our Ranch late September for an eagerly awaited Level III, 7 Day Big Game Multi-Specie Viewing by horseback. From Germany, Scotland, Wales and England, the riders rode the South Chilcotin Mountains scouting for Big Game.
Dictated by the animal’s daily habits and patterns, the group’s itinerary followed, adapted and adjusted to the distinctive feeding and sleeping habits of each of the different species. At prime times and at prime locations, the group went in search for the majestic, the elusive and the curious. Waking before sunrise, the group went in search for the animals on their morning feeding jaunt. Then, as the animals rested and retired from the heat of the midday sun, our group followed. With the approach of dusk, when the animals are known to be at their most active, the riders saddled up for another wildlife encounter.
Persistence combined with the knowledge of each animal and the area, meant that the search was not in vain. The expedition took our group through some untamed country, from crossing rivers to rocky ledges overlooking a valley bottom. Throughout the 7 days, our group of riders experienced a true North American Safari, spotting a herd of Mountain goats, Mule deer and a Grizzly mother and her cubs.
Our unique wildlife viewing trips include Grizzly Viewing, Big Game Multi and Single Specie Viewing, and our Winter Predator Viewing Adventures for wolf and mountain lion.
Travelling is a wonderful gift. It opens the mind. It opens the world. It opens up possibilities. For single travellers exploring the world or within their backyard, we like to encourage and embrace this independent and adventurous spirit.
Travelling on your own is great way to meet new people, where you can explore on your own agenda, doing what you want, when you please. But travelling by yourself can sometimes have its drawbacks and unique frustrations. At our Ranch, we like to make life easier — not harder — for the single traveller. We don’t penalize you for travelling on your own by charging single supplements. We also don’t have a minimum number policy for our trips. This means you don’t have to rely on other travellers to book your same trip to make it happen. We believe that all of our guests are “worth our while”, regardless of whether you come on your own, or whether you’re a group of ten. So, we say no to “based on double occupancy rates”, “single supplement charges” and “minimum number of guests required”! Let’s celebrate the single traveller and the independent spirit within.
Those that didn’t get a chance to getaway in the summer, take heart and plan a winter adventure with us. Experience the crisp winter air, freshly fallen snow and a true Canadian winter wonderland on one of our Wilderness Winter Adventures.
Our Winter Guest Ranch Adventure is ideal for those looking to explore the winter wilderness by horseback. Each day ride quietly into the backcountry along the snow-covered trails following icy rushing rivers and along snow trails lined by ancient fir and aspens.
For those that have seen and done it all, experience a once-in-a-lifetime encounter on our Winter Predator Viewing Trips. Our Cougar Predator Viewing adventure by foot, snowmobile and vehicle is a thrilling quest for one of North America’s most elusive predators. In December, stalk the Mountain lion by searching freshly fallen snow for tracks that lead you to spectacular rocky viewpoints or to their well-hidden lairs. Then, from February to March, our Wolf Predator Viewing adventure follows the stealth of the shrewd Timber wolf by vehicle and foot. Witness nature at its most cunning as it stalks its prey with an unnerving ability on its favored hunting grounds.
With a taste of snowmobiling on your Predator Viewing Adventure, why not follow it with our Ranch or Camp based Snowmobile Adventure. Cruise along 300km of marked trails that take you deep into the wilderness. Experience an exhilarating ride into the backcountry along the packed or powder trails lined by ancient firs, climbing higher to ridge-tops.
Or, warm up with a more active winter adventure on our Ranch or Hut based Cross-country and snowshoeing adventure. These adventures take cross-country skiers from novice to advanced through remote backcountry trails. Get the blood pumping exploring the many trails and for the more experienced and seasoned skier, ski challenging trails to new powder bowls, a new ridge and through sub-alpine valleys; with your efforts rewarded at the mountain summit with breathtaking panoramic views
At Chilcotin Holidays, we’ve come to learn it’s the experience that makes the unforgettable holiday. We know it’s not the food that makes it savory, it’s the people you share the meal with. It’s not the accommodation that provides a comfortable sleep, it’s the feeling of a home. It’s not being treated like a VIP, it’s being welcomed like an old friend. It’s not the finer things in life that matter, it’s the important things in life: memories, adventure, discovery, laughter, time. After 16 years of providing wilderness experiences to guests from all over the world, this is what we have come to learn. We are creators of wilderness experiences. It is what we do best — and what we will continue to do with uncompromising commitment. That won’t ever change. We look forward to a long and busy season ahead creating adventures, memories and “once-in-a-lifetime” experiences.
Eldorado.
The distinct, striking red mountain has been described reverently as the “Serengeti of North America”.
This mountain is more revered for its natural beauty than the riches of gold that it holds in its deepest cavities.
It has captured the imagination of all those who have seen its arresting image and have moved those who have summated it, and beheld the dramatic view from its highest point.
Eldorado has now inspired the feature story in the May issue of Westworld. It is a quarterly travel magazine read by over half a million readers, and this month, the towering peaks and earthy red tones of Eldorado can be seen gracing its cover.
Experienced horse rider and freelance writer, Vancouver based Larissa Buijs, penned the feature article after a Horse Pack trip to Eldorado with us in 2004 and, again in 2005. Her first experience to Eldorado stirred her spirit of adventure, and she was moved to share it with other like-minded travellers. She returned to Chilcotin Holidays the year after to write her story.
In her article, she reveals one of the best-kept secrets in Canada. The distinctive shale terrain and glaciated rounded mountaintops are rarely found in North America. And, it is the blend of this unique glaciated terrain with our surefooted Mountain Cayuse horses, which makes summating the mountains obtainable and the extreme mountaintop and alpine riding possible.
This place is made more overwhelming with the valley brocaded in a mosaic of wildflowers and the abundance of wildlife. Tucked away in the lush valley bottom at the base of Eldorado, lies our permanent camp where Larissa and all of our guests stay during their Horse Pack Trip. From camp, this provides some of the best viewing opportunities for the resident Mountain goats on top and Grizzlies below as they feed on the lush shoots of Cow Parsnip and Horse Tail covering the expanse of the valley basin.
Larissa continues her story as she writes with deep respect of our Mountain Cayuse horses that live and work in the mountains. These unique horses come from the wild herds of the Cariboo-Chilcotin, a mixture of breeds developed over generations. They have a stamina, toughness, energy, intelligence and spirit required to take riders safely into the mountains. Her piece also gives deserved praise to our quality guides, from their amiability, their horsemanship, their depth of mountain experience, and their knowledge of our guide territory.
Read Larissa’s article in this month’s Westworld Magazine, available from the British Columbia Automobile Association.
We started the beginning of spring by welcoming a group of travellers from the UK on a Multi-specie Wildlife Viewing trip. To take advantage of the viewing opportunities, we had set out in the early morning along the 50km stretch of Carpenter Lake; prime time and prime location for viewing the Big Game along their favoured feeding grounds. Our guides had been out scouting two days previously and were excited about the chances of spotting wildlife — and we weren’t disappointed. The group was delighted to witness the abundant wildlife, including Ospreys nesting and Bald and Golden Eagles perched high up in trees, as well as in search for their prey along the water’s edge. We had a close encounter with a herd of California Bighorns, as they grazed together on the rocky bluffs. Not long after, our guide’s keen eyes spotted a herd of Mountain goats in the distance. The spotting scope was set up and the group was able to view the impressive goats high up on the sheer cliff faces. Mule deer were seen in abundance, drawn to the fresh shoots of grass along the lake, and we were also lucky to spot a Coyote. As expected, the wildlife were quite obliging which allowed for plenty of photo opportunities!
Running through to October, our 7-Day Camp Based Multi and Single-Specie Safaris by horse or foot is a truly unique experience. It combines the exciting quest of a true North American Big Game Safari with the spectacular natural setting of the south Chilcotin Mountains, teeming with over 150 species of wildflowers and 210 species of birdlife to create an adventure of a lifetime!
For those that want a “taste” of everything we have to offer, from a leisurely ramble into the alpine, a demanding “in the saddle” experience or a once in a lifetime Grizzly Viewing experience, book consecutive adventures to get an all-round Western Canadian adventure! We have a “smorgasbord” of possibilities to feed your senses! Here’s a sampler:
If you have an appetite for more, satisfy it with one of our Add-On Experiences within a day’s drive of Chilcotin Holidays, including:
In late April, we gear up for the start to our School Season.
The high level of demand for our Wilderness Guide Training Programs mean that dates became quickly full.
With eager students wanting to become professional wilderness guides.
Our Programs offer intensive training in horse handling, Western Mountain riding, horse shoeing and packing, camp preparation and essential wilderness survival skills, students graduate with the working knowledge and practical skills to become a professional guide.
We have students coming from all over Canada, from Ontario, British Columbia to Saskatchewan as well as welcoming students all the way from Germany, Switzerland, Australian and the USA!
Being a wilderness guide is an exciting and rewarding career — with the spectacular south Chilcotin Mountains as your office and your choice of transport to work by horse! Imagine being paid to take people on horse pack trips, alpine hiking treks, wildlife viewing expeditions or fishing adventures! (Someone’s gotta do it…)
Many of our graduates go on to work for us as guides. We are proud of the calibre of the guides that graduate from our programs. Our graduates have gone on to own their own Guide Territories, to operating their own wilderness guest ranch in the Yukon to setting up their own Horse Trekking business in Germany. It is truly a testament to the quality of our programs.
Our Wilderness Guide Training Programs range from the 1 week to 2 week Training Program, the Guide Outfitter, the Advanced, the Guide Outfitter and Adventure Tourism Management, the Horse Logging, the Angling Guide, the Hike Guide and Wilderness Log Cabin Building Training Programs. Our programs runs from May through to September. So, if being “paid to play” tickles your fancy, contact us at Chilcotin Holidays.
From the southern Hemisphere, to the north of Germany and to the east of Canada, our Wilderness Guide School students have come from all corners of the globe for our first Wilderness Guide Training Program of the season. The training schedule sets a demanding pace. From sunrise to sunset, our students undertake fourteen intensive days of learning the fundamentals of being a wilderness guide: tying the diamond hitch, correctly shoeing a horse (from a small Cayuse to a big draught) and hobbling and staking them out in the meadows. Cutting through deadfall from winter’s snow isn’t uncommon and camp preparation and survival skills in the backcountry are learnt and tested on the 7 days in the mountains. Days are long, muscles our students never knew they had ached, and long hours in the saddle sure got them walking like a real cowboy/cowgirl!
Under the patient guidance of our instructors, Colleen, Stew and Robin, the Program has been structured so that our students progress at their own speed and skill level and at the same time, test and challenge them in preparation for being a successful guide in the wilderness. Our graduates have come through the training, gaining not only a vocational skill, but a life experience which will hold them in good stead as they enter the adventure tourism industry. We would like to congratulate them on their commitment and sense of adventure. We know what it takes to be a successful guide: strength of mind, a determined character, and exceptional ability. Whether our graduates go onto being guides for us, for another outfit in Canada or somewhere around the world, or to owning their own outfit, we have complete confidence in their success. As the first of our cohort of graduates, they have a good and long summer ahead to look forward to. They are certainly well on their way to becoming a Licensed and Professional guide.
We are certain to welcome many of our graduates back again next season. Our graduates go onto specialize with our Advanced, Hike or Angling Guide Training Programs or any one of our other Specialist Guide Schools. For more information, visit our website.
During the winter, our horses have been kept in our Ranch pastures. The daily winter routine involved rolling out a 1500-pound bale of hay to feed our herd of hungry horses. We kept fit through the winter pitching the hay and rounding up the horses. It also proved a novelty for our guests who have willingly rolled up their sleeves and experienced the Ranch way of life.
With the spring, the horses have been turned out to graze. We have range rights throughout our 6,000sq km guide territory, so we have taken out the horse bells and have “let the herd loose” on valleys of lush grass sweetened by the spring sun. With a busy season ahead of us, we’re excited about welcoming new horses to our herd. These seasoned Mountain Cayuse horses may be new to us but not to the mountains! From the wild Horse gang in the Cariboo, these exceptional horses have been taking our guests safely and reliably through the mountains for over 16 years. These sure footed horses have captured the hearts and gained the trust of all our guests, with their toughness and stamina, energy, intelligence and good disposition endearing them to riders on our Horse Pack Trip and Guest Ranch Adventures. We can’t wait for our new horses to arrive and to acquaint ourselves as they establish themselves and their pecking order in the herd.
There’s just nothing quite like springtime at Chilcotin Holidays. The bears start to stir after their winter long hibernation. The deer, wolves, and coyotes give birth to their young. The wildlife start to re-establish their territories. The trees start to become covered with their dense foliage once again. The spring flowers bloom with a boldness, coaxed out by the warmth of the sun’s rays.
It is one of the best times to visit the south Chilcotin Mountains. Re-energize with the newness and growth that represents the start of a new season, feel the freshness of the spring air, and witness the transformation as nature starts all over again.
Experience this unique time of year with one of our distinct wilderness adventures, such as our Ranch based Grizzly Viewing Adventure, with mid spring giving prime opportunities to view our Grizzlies at lower elevations before they begin their migration higher up into the mountains.
With a new season, we were happy to welcome back our guides who have been taking our guests on our unique wilderness adventures for many seasons. We were also excited about our new staff coming onboard, injecting some fresh new blood to the Ranch. Our new guides have been through our rigorous training having graduated from our registered Wilderness Guide Training Programs and will be mentored by our “seasoned anchor” guides and management. From old hands to new, we know that our guides set the industry standard, with their varied backgrounds and their expertise, knowledge and experience. After a long winter, our guides were ready to put away their snowmobiles and skis, and start polishing their saddles, dusting off their hiking boots and untangling their tackle!
This last winter provided excellent opportunities for viewing Timber wolves. As the conditions got colder, the wolves became hungrier and more active in hunting for their prey. Along Carpenter Lake, which stretches 50km along the road leading up to our Ranch, the frozen lake provided one of the many favored prey grounds and best viewing spots for the elusive wolf. The lake setting granted us one of our most exciting sightings of a lone wolf. We watched as he jumped agilely over the ice, pausing once to look back at us before disappearing into the thick cover of the mountain forest.
We had also witnessed a number of signs that the wolves had followed the deer down from the mountains: numerous tracks were spotted, left over carcasses from their successful kills on the frozen lakes and the chilling sounds of wolves howling indicated a healthy pack of wolves this past winter.
Stalk the Timber wolf by 4x4 and foot next winter with dates in February and March. Follow the wolf on a 4-Day Ranch based Timber wolf expedition as it crafts its stalk with an unnerving ability. Stealth being the name of the game, we take small groups on each trip.
It wasn’t just the wildlife stirring on the top of the lakes during the winter. Underneath the frozen surface the fish were biting. One of the many activity options of our Winter Guest Ranch Adventure, ice fishing is one of the great North American traditions to be experienced. When the ice is clear and a couple of inches thick, this is the best time for ice fishing. Sit and reflect on a still winter’s day, quietly waiting for your cue: the slight tug of the line. Your patience is rewarded with reputedly the best tasting fish as the frigidness of the freezing waters gives the flesh a “firm and flaky” texture.
As the ice melted at the coming of spring in early April, this was when the explosive action of fishing started. Fishing enthusiasts from novice to advance can delight in our flat-water fishing in our remote lakes and ponds with Dolly Varden, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout and Kokanee on the menu … a true fisherman’s paradise!
Experience our 4-Day Ranch based Wild Lakes, Rivers and Streams, 4 Day Remote Mountain Lakes Camp Based or 4 Day Remote Mountains Rivers Camp based Fishing Adventures this season!
The “wildlife” isn’t just the four-legged variety at Chilcotin Holidays!
During winter at our Ranch, our guests enjoyed a wild time on their Snowmobile adventure!
Snowmobiling is one of the most thrilling and easiest ways to access the backcountry in the winter.
March was a popular time to head out with a snowmobile, as the snow settled on the top of the mountains.
It made for perfect conditions for crusin’ through the powder-soft snow and carvin’ the trails to the mountain peaks for spectacular panoramic views.
This past winter, we took a group out on snowmobiles to view moose.
All winter-long, we kept a close eye on our resident family of moose and counted up to 15 moose in one herd, including a mother and her calves as they spent their winter along the banks of the frozen lake.
Plan for your next winter’s adventure with a Ranch based or Hut based 4-Day Wilderness Snowmobile Adventure.
At the beginning of this year, we were proud to have been nominated for the “Environmentally Responsible Tourism Award” at the 7th Annual BC Tourism Awards held this month in Penticton, British Columbia. These prestigious awards were established jointly by Tourism British Columbia and the Council of Tourism Associations of BC to recognize excellence and innovation within the tourism industry.
The nomination is a true testament to our commitment to managing our guide territory in a way that ensures sustained and compatible uses for a quality wilderness tourism product. The management of our resources is a large part of our daily operations, and we provide many opportunities for guest involvement. For example, guides and guests use our wildlife sighting forms to bring back information on specific wildlife herds for accurate population counts. Our guests participate in the collection of Grizzly hair samples from rub trees for DNA analyses to determine movements, home ranges and populations. So, on behalf of Chilcotin Holidays, we would like to recognize our guests for their part!
Winter riding is one of the best ways to experience the south Chilcotin Mountains.
As the days become shorter with the hold of winter, the snow falling steadily, blanketing the ground, and the horses’ coats becoming thick and woolly, winter is a great time to go exploring by horseback.
And, indeed it was perfect conditions this past winter. Amongst our many guests was a UK couple on their Winter Guest Ranch Adventure. Our guests, an experienced rider and her novice husband, rode deep into the backcountry, along snow-covered trails lined by massive ancient firs. The sky overhead was blue and the warmth of the brilliant sun reminisced of a spring day. The snow was perfectly soft underfoot, and the spectacular scenery of the snow-capped mountains and the trees stripped bare by winter’s hands made for a memorable winter getaway for our guests. After a full day of riding, the hours in the saddle were rewarded with a hearty meal and a warm fireplace.
It’s never too early to plan for your next winter adventure. For some Horsin’ around in the snow, experience our all-inclusive 4-Day Winter Guest Ranch Adventure.
January was the time when the Grizzlies were getting ready to give birth to their cubs.
Remarkably, they do this whilst deep in hibernation.
Safe and warm in their den, the young cubs suckle on their mothers whilst she hibernates until mid-April to May.
Last spring, we had the fortune of witnessing a sow with her triplets playing and feeding on the fresh shoots of grass in the lush valley bottom. When we thought our luck couldn’t get any better, we spotted another sow with four cubs!! Quadruplets are a particularly rare occurrence and it was a breathtaking sight to witness. The South Chilcotins provides a protected area for Grizzlies, with their habitats preserved by Provincial Park regulation. Together with the remoteness of the area, and the abundance of feed, this all contributes to our thriving and healthy Grizzly population.
If last year is a sign of things to come, we are excited about this coming season! Witness these Grizzlies in the wild on one our Grizzly Viewing Adventures. The first of our 4-Day Grizzly Viewing Ranch Based trip by foot and vehicle started May 1, with trips running through to June 11, and the first of our 7-Day Grizzly Camp Based trip by horse starts June 11, running through to July 15.
This winter saw us go on a thrilling Mountain Lion expedition, where we came across two sibling kittens underneath a 2–3 foot tangle of Pine Pole Spruce deadfall. The kittens stared out at us with newly opened, piercing blue eyes. Most likely a month old, and the size of a normal house cat (or a very big rabbit!), the kittens were crouched on their trademark disproportionately big brown fluffy feet. We suspected that their mother had left them to hunt for rabbits, and when the juvenile siblings spotted us, they instinctively spat and hissed in aggression. We were delighted to see the spirit in these young cats!
The Mountain lion is one of the most agile and athletic of creatures, and to witness them in the wild is an experience never forgotten. We look forward to seeing them as matured Cats next season.
Get the heart pounding with our thrilling wild Mountain lion Predator Viewing adventures. Stalk the Mountain lion by searching the freshly fallen snow for tracks, leading to spectacular rocky viewpoints or to the well-hidden lairs of the most elusive of our wildlife. By snowmobile, 4x4 and foot, shadow the Mountain lion’s moves throughout the 4-Day stalk in winter from December to March.
The deep cold of this past winter was prime conditions to witness a Cougar in the wild. Large paw imprints found in the powdered snow meant that the Cougar was active, travelling and on the prowl. This winter, we went in search for the elusive Cat on a Cougar Predator Viewing expedition.
All the signs were promising, and experience told us that our chances of seeing a Cougar were good. On snowmobiles, we scouted the prime locations, taking us to rocky viewpoints and spectacular ridges. We carefully searched the favoured wintering grounds of the Mule deer and moose — the Cougar’s prey. And, this is where we discovered the tracks that would lead us to our Cougar. We knew it was hot. The cougar could not be far off. We were close, and we knew it.
We followed the tracks through knee-deep snow and thick underbrush, the steep ascent took us higher into the mountains. Hearts pounding with the thrill of shadowing a wild predator, our excitement mounted with the anticipation of our coming encounter. As we reached the top, we caught our breath at the dramatic sight of the cougar, perched on the lowest branch of a massive Aspen.
There’s something provocative about seeing a cougar in the wild. The feline specie seems to ebb an ancient and primal magic. Drawn to its intoxicating power, you stare into its eyes and he stares back, and for a moment you find yourself connecting with nature at its wildest. Captivated by the Cougar’s hypnotic, cold and calm stare, with the close proximity your find yourself at, you can almost feel the sleekness of its movement, the sheer power behind its muscle, and sense the intelligence behind its cool gaze.
The Cougar is unlike any of the other creatures in the wild. Its agility, grace and power reigns the North American Animal Kingdom. To see the Cougar in the wild is truly a once in a lifetime experience. Experience the search and shadowing of the Cougar on our 4-Day Cougar Predator Viewing Expedition next winter.
With the first hint of spring, the south Chilcotin Mountains becomes a natural canvas, as the blossoming wildflower paints its vibrant colours over the broad hillsides and through alpine meadows. At Chilcotin Holidays, you can view nature’s art gallery on one of our unique Wilderness Experiences. From an authentic Western Guest Ranch Adventure, to a serious in the saddle Horse Pack Trip, to an invigorating Alpine Hiking trip or to a once in a lifetime Wildlife Viewing experience. Be inspired by the “Technicolor Feast” of meadows brocaded with the abundance of wildflowers.
With over 150 different species of wildflowers, the effect is stunning. As far as the eye can see (and the imagination can fancy) is a complex mosaic of royal blue Lupines, bright white and yellow Alpine Lillies and Indian Paintbrushes varying from shades of deep red to a delicate pink — the mix of colours like a painter’s palette. Discover the healing properties of the Ragwort and learn about the Valerian the key ingredient for today’s Valium. Savor the heady fragrance over a leisurely open-air lunch before a ramble through the open expanse of the valley bottoms covered in a kaleidoscope of flora. Exhibiting from May to September, view Mother Nature’s own masterpiece in the south Chilcotin Mountains.
We know one size doesn’t fit all. We know you are unique. So we work hard to match our adventures to you. This is how we do it:
It’s the sport of the Prince of Thieves, aristocratic knights and mythical elves; Archery is an ancient sport belonging to the truly noble. During your Guest Ranch Stay, test your marksmanship with one of our newest Activity Options. Take aim, with a coolness of mind, a steadiness of hand and with the eye of a true marksman. Feel the tautness of the bow and the quiver of the arrow as it finds its target. And as the sun goes down and the moon rises, move from Archery to Astronomy with our new Stargazing Activity Option.
For centuries, poets, prophets and philosophers have looked to the stars for answers and for inspiration. In the remote south Chilcotin Mountains, where the bright city lights don’t compete with the brilliant stars of the night, discover some of the answers for yourself. From our Ranch deck and through our high powered telescope, uncover the ancient secrets of the universe. Look up to the heavens, and loose yourself in the vastness of the clear night sky as it stretches, seemingly into infinity. Search the millions of stars blanketing the velvet sky for the Northern Star that has guided travellers in the night for thousands of years. Seek out the constellations of the Seven Sisters, the Big and Little Dipper, or perhaps simply just make a wish on a shooting star…
Make the most of your Guest Ranch Stay with our Activity Options, from guided fishing, Grizzly viewing, gold panning, “hands-on” horse logging demonstrations or shoeing/packing, gymkhana horse sports, and our newly added Stargazing and Archery options.
When the cherry blossoms were already blooming in the valley bottoms, there was plenty of snowfall in the mountains during March and April. And, as the days become hot and sunny with the coming of May, the warm sun packs the snow, sets a solid base and forms a good crust — perfect conditions for snowmobiling the mountaintops. This is when we ride over mountain passes that could not be accessed throughout most of the winter and up to ridge tops where we usually only get to experience by horse back or foot.
A recent trip saw us heading into the mountain on 4 inches of fresh powder on top of an 8-foot base. For 20 miles the mountaintops look like white sand dunes each more inviting than the next. For a last ride of the season, experience our all-inclusive 4-Day Snowmobiling Adventure. Trip cost includes guide(s), snowmobiles, meals, accommodation and transportation between Vancouver and our Ranch.
As part of the Wilderness Tourism Association of BC’s fundraising efforts, we were pleased to play our part with the donation of our 7-Day Camp Based Grizzly Viewing Trip for two people. Judy Karwacki was recently announced as the lucky winner of the prize valued at over $4500. A lifetime of an adventure will be waiting for both Judy and her niece this coming summer!
We are proud to be a supporter and member of the WTA. Our goal is one and the same with the Association, and that is to “ensure the ongoing viability of the Wilderness Tourism Industry through the protection of the wilderness tourism land base”.
As a Wilderness Tourism Operator, it is our goal to manage our guide territory for the finest wilderness experience possible. We manage our resources in cooperation with the respective government agencies. Our individual management plans for the resources, such as Range and Wildlife, make up our Guide Area Plan. It is this Plan that ensures sustained and compatible uses for a quality wilderness tourism product. As an active supporter and advocate of the WTA, this is one of the many ways we actively do this.
The mountains ignite with fiery fall colours and the trees, set aflame with shades of mustards, yellows, oranges, reds and burnt purple, line the trails like a guard of honour to welcome the arrival of an Indian Summer.
It is an enchanting time of transition where the summer’s vibrancy retreats and is replaced by the understated tranquility of autumn. The landscape transforms with the turning of the colours and the slight drop in the mercury is just enough for a dusting of snow on the mountain peaks. When the last of the summer holiday makers have gone, enjoy peaceful warm days and quiet, cool nights.
On your wilderness adventure, follow trails carpeted by fallen leaves discarded from last summer and explore mountain forests painted by the autumnal hues of the fall foliage. Hike through the alpine, ride the mountains on horseback, explore on a mountain bike, or go in search for wildlife on our Multi- and Single Specie Safaris right through to the end of October. Experience an Indian Summer.
In the far corner of Southwestern British Columbia, we once again became a converging point for adventurers and travellers from all over the globe, including Australia, the UK, the USA, Switzerland, Germany, Japan and of course, CANADA.
This summer, we welcomed back the Schlagintweit family who were featured in our stories in the Vancouver Sun and The Province, as they once again set about on a challenging Level III 7-Day Horse Pack Trip. We also welcomed back groups and friends who have been with us more times than we can remember. One particular group came back again this year as their own exclusive group for a Mountain Challenger 7-Day Horse Pack Trip. They are truly the epitome of our “Tried and Tested” guests.
We have also made new friends, including a sole intrepid traveller from Germany on her epic 20 day adventure with us that included a Level III 10 Day Horse Pack Trip, a Ranch based Fishing adventure and a Guest Ranch Stay!
The personal stories of our guests are a constant inspiration to us. We have welcomed city-slickers on their maiden expedition into the mountains, novice riders living the dream of a horse pack adventure and young and hopeful students on their Wilderness Guide Training Program.
However, this summer was exceptionally inspiring as we welcomed 14 young cancer patients and their chaperones to our Ranch. We were encouraged by their strength and optimism as they face their own personal challenge. Winston Churchill was quoted to say, “There’s something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man&38221;. Here, riding in the remoteness of the south Chilcotin Mountains, we know it is a true tonic for the soul and spirit. It was a privilege to extend our hospitality and impart a bit of this equine remedy to these inspiring individuals.
It has indeed been a summer season to remember.
We often get asked what we mean when we say, “Experience 5 Star Wilderness”. Here at the Ranch, where we live and breathe the wilderness, we sometimes take for granted that others know what exceptional wilderness truly is. So, we have tried to describe what we exactly mean, but we do suggest you “Experience” it for yourself.
It is here in the remote wilderness of the South Chilcotin Mountains, tucked away in the southwest corner of British Columbia, that the number of stars that stud the vast night sky far exceeds the highest thread-sheet count. It is where freshly caught wild trout cooked slowly over the campfire is savoured more than the finest culinary experience. Here, a room view of towering mountain ranges doesn’t come at a “superior” cost. Between the Coast Mountains and the Chilcotin Plateau, you’ll find yourself close by to the popular attractions of ancient game trails, glacial fed rushing rivers and wild flowering meadows all within easy walking distance to God’s own Masterpiece. And, your deluxe amenities of fresh alpine air, pristine glacial water and azure blue skies are all just part of the service…naturally. Here, Mother Nature has surpassed herself. It is what we, at Chilcotin Holidays, like to call “5 Star Wilderness”: The Extraordinary Bio-diversity, the Stunning Scenery, the Unique Terrain, the Incomparable Climate and the Incredible Wildlife.
It is always satisfying to know that our guests have had a great time with us, but it is always humbling to hear that our adventures have made a lasting imprint on them. We thought you would appreciate reading some of the thoughts and feelings that our guests have shared with us about their adventure of a lifetime.
“I woke this morning to such delicious memories” Thank you for all that you brought to make this trip such a success. The images, learning experiences and fellowship will linger on for a long time…”
“We can’t thank you all enough for the wonderful holiday we had with you… Thank you, too for the unexpected bonus of my first ever horse ride. Another highlight amongst many. What a Team you all are”.
“First, thank you so much for the opportunity to experience a Chilcotin Adventure… Kymn and I now are advocates for your programs and will continue to spread the word and share our pictures with anyone who will listen. Your patience at the beginning to get us on the right trip set us up for a positive experience. The scenery where the camp is located, as you are well aware, is magnificent but it is the people that make the experience just that much better. Again, thank you for a wonderful experience and we hope that one-day we will return to enjoy your hospitality.”
“I can’t stop thinking about my trip. I love everything about it up there and I miss it unbelievably. I just really wanted you to know that you guys have left an unforgettable foot print in my memory. I think my experience there has altered my career choice, because when I’m old enough I want to take the guide training course. You have a wonderful facility, which helped contribute to my enjoyment, but it wasn’t just that. It was the amazing horses, the caring, helpful, sweet guides, and the extraordinary people met while I was there. So, once again, thank you for an unforgettable life experience. This really was a spectacular, indescribable, unforgettable wilderness adventure.”
“We all had an absolute blast and it truly was a life changing experience for Richard. I thought he was kidding us initially but he actually wants a cowboy hat, looking for cowboy boots, and yesterday mentioned he would really like to buy a horse!! My god, we are all in shock. He and Hanna have talked non-stop about the ‘adventure’ and are saving their pennies already to save up for the guide school next year. They have some even more grandiose plans but we shall see what develops!!”
“Thanks again to all you for a great holiday. You exceeded our expectations in every way, and coaxed us out of our comfort zones once again. Each of us returned with a whole new set of entertaining stories (Great material for tales at family dinners).”
We match our clients to the right wilderness experience. Our adventures are designed so that our clients can progress through “levels” according to their interests and abilities. For example, novice riders or hikers, begin with a Ranch based adventure. They later progress to the more challenging Level I, II or III Camp based adventures that take them deeper into the backcountry.
Ranch based — These adventures are suited for the beginner that has no camping experience, or the advanced that does not wish to overnight in an alpine camp. Ranch adventures allow for flexibility in duration and degree of difficulty on a day-to-day basis. Our Guest Ranch is spacious, complete with two storey fireplace, sun room, large central dining room, a large outdoor deck facing the rugged Coast mountains, and queen beds with feather duvets. The atmosphere is similar to that of a large family home. The 8 guest bedrooms have a varied combination of sleeping arrangements (i.e. queen, twin, bunk), along with 4 shared bathrooms.
Camp based (Level I, II, III) — Our Alpine Camps vary between fully equipped permanent base camps and seasonal camps. The permanent base camps include different combination of log cabins and/or tent cabins for eating and sleeping. Tent cabins consist of 10 X 12 “walk about” structures with raised floors. Some of the permanent camps are more developed, with gravity fed showers, solar lighting and heaters in the tent cabins. Camp based trips are suited for the beginner, intermediate through to advanced adventure seekers that have some camping experience and wish to overnight in an alpine camp. Take a look at the “Trip Levels” descriptions on our website to decide which level is most suitable for your client.
Chilcotin Holidays
at Chilcotin Holidays