Other activities

This region is the destination for world-class heliski and snowcat skiing operators, as well as backcountry guided tours. One you might not have heard of yet, but should consider, is Chatter Creek Mountain Lodges (344-7199), owned by two local loggers who also happen to be passionate about skiing and riding. The skilled staff is laid back and friendly, the lodges are simple but comfortable, and the emphasis is on great skiing and riding in a pristine and spectacular environment. The remote lodges are accessed solely by helicopter. All terrain is accessed via snowcat, but plans are to add heliski terrain, which ranges from a base of 4,900 feet to a summit of 9,600 feet, with some skiing and riding on glaciers.

Pure Travel Group (866-6068 from N. America; 250-439-1800 from other countris) offers full day excursions to Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Ski Lake Louise and Panarama & Hot Springs, both with skiing, dogsledding and a1/2 day snowmobile tour with entry to Radium Hot Springs.

Guided snowmobile tours are available through SnowPeak Rentals & Tours (888-512-4222; 344-8385) and Kinbasket Adventures (344-6012).

Cedar & Sage Spa (290-0018; 344-7990), a privately owned day spa in the Prestige Inn, offers wraps, massages, masks, facials, manicures, pedicures and hair care. Just-for-men treatments also are available.

The scenery in the region is simply amazing, with frequent wildlife sightings, and places worth day visits include Lake Louise, Radium Hot Springs, Revelstoke (see above) , and the surrounding six national parks. Make sure to pick up free area road maps.Most accommodations have them on site.

For shopping, you’ll find a few shops in the mountain village and a few more downtown in Golden. Not surprisingly, emphasis is on outdoor recreational products.