Bugaboos to Rogers Pass

Arctic Ski Touring from a Small Expedition Vessel | 8-12 Guests

A ski touring and sailing expedition along the west coast of Spitsbergen, in the high Arctic between mainland Norway and the North Pole.

The Svalbard archipelago consists of more than 60 largely uninhabited islands in the high Arctic, at over 78° north—level with Ellesmere Island and northern Greenland.

Skiing here is defined by its setting: steep mountains rising directly from the sea, accessed by small boat and zodiac. Each day is shaped by weather, sea ice, and conditions, with the flexibility to move between fjords and choose objectives accordingly.

Despite its latitude, Svalbard is straightforward to reach, with regular flights into Longyearbyen and a short transfer to the harbour.

Expedition Vessels

We operate on three distinct sailing vessels in Svalbard: Noorderlicht, Meander, and Rembrandt van Rijn, each offering a different balance of space, comfort, and expedition style.

• Noorderlicht — 12 guests; classic schooner with exceptional space per guest and a traditional expedition atmosphere
• Meander — 10–12 guests; compact, efficient platform with strong logistics and modern systems and amenities
• Rembrandt van Rijn — up to 29 guests; larger vessel with private cabins and a more comfortable onboard experience

Learn more about the vessels by clicking the Accommodation tab above

The spectacular Bow Yoho Traverse runs roughly north-east to south-west across the continental divide from Bow Lake to the Yoho Valley, crossing the Wapta, Yoho and Des Poilus icefields on the way. We take away a lot of the hard work and add a lot of fun to this classic Canadian Rockies hut to hut ski touring traverse. Porters bring our food into Bow and Stanley Mitchel huts, making for light packs and easy traverses. We will spend our days travelling and shredding March Powder. Nights we enjoy the comfort of three cozy Alpine Club huts that dot this high level traverse. There’s no sense in rushing this traverse, so we will spend two nights at the ACC’s new Guy Hut, a state of the art flagship hut perched on a high ridge between the Yoho and Des Poilus glaciers. Then we’ll spend our last two nights at one of the ACC’s quaintest and oldest huts, the log-built Stanley Mitchell, and warm ourselves to a crackling fire below the treeline. We have earned our reputation as the “Wapta Deluxe” experts!

A Ski Mountaineering Expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula

Now accepting applications for 2026 and 2027

Antarctica is one of the most unusual places on Earth to travel on skis. Mountains rise directly from the ocean, glaciers spill into deep blue bays, and the terrain stretches for hundreds of kilometres in every direction.

Our expedition is built around reaching that terrain.

We sail from Ushuaia aboard the expedition yacht Ocean Tramp, cross the Drake Passage, and spend the following weeks exploring the islands and mountains of the Antarctic Peninsula. From the vessel we travel by zodiac to remote landing sites and begin ski tours from sea level.

Most days involve several hours of climbing through glaciated terrain followed by long descents back toward the ocean.

Typical Ski Days

• 700–1500 m vertical
• 4–8 hours of travel
• Small expedition team
• Objectives chosen according to weather, snow, and ice conditions

This is not a cruise with skiing added on. The entire expedition is structured around ski mountaineering.

Why Ski Antarctica

Nowhere on Earth combines large mountains, maritime snow, and ocean access in the same way.

Along the Antarctic Peninsula peaks rise dramatically from the sea and glaciers descend directly to the shoreline. The result is terrain where it is possible to start a tour from the water and ski all the way back to the coast.

Conditions vary, but when the weather stabilizes the snowpack provides long continuous runs across broad glaciers, steep couloirs, and alpine faces.

Wildlife encounters are common. Whales and orca pods move through the channels, penguin colonies line the shores, and seals rest on the ice nearby.

It is expedition skiing in its purest form.

The Expedition Vessel

The expedition takes place aboard the Ocean Tramp, an aluminium expedition yacht purpose-built for remote Antarctic operations.

Life aboard the yacht is simple and comfortable:

• Ocean Tramp has four double guest cabins
• Spacious saloon and dining area
• Large deck space for wildlife viewing and photography
• Zodiac for shore access

Ocean Tramp comfortably carries a small team, allowing access to areas that larger ships cannot reach in authentic expeditionary style.

Ski Objectives

The mountains of the Antarctic Peninsula offer a huge variety of terrain.

Broad glaciated peaks, technical couloirs, and long ski lines dropping toward the ocean are all possible during the expedition. On strong teams we sometimes commit to larger multi-day objectives in expedition style, establishing camps to access higher summits.

Several major peaks in the Palmer Archipelago rise more than 2500 m directly above the Southern Sea, creating some of the most dramatic ski touring landscapes in the world. Our 2025 expedition climbed Mount Français, 2822 m.

On most expeditions we get two or three days of weather that make skiing difficult or impossible. That is one reason we run a longer trip. Antarctica is a long way to travel, and shorter itineraries can easily spend a large portion of their ski days waiting for a window.

Once we are on the Peninsula we ski whenever the weather allows. When storms move through we reposition to another objective or switch gears: sea kayaking, historic sites, whales, photography. There is always something going on.

A Typical Day

A ski day in Antarctica often begins with the team gathering as the crew positions the boat near the day’s objective.

After breakfast we board the zodiacs and travel to shore.

From there the day unfolds in classic expedition style:

• Land on a beach or sea ice
• Climb through glaciated terrain for several hours
• Reach a summit or high point
• Ski long descents back toward the ocean
• Return to the vessel for the evening

Long daylight hours during the Antarctic summer allow flexible days and often spectacular evening descents.

Sea Kayaking and Exploration

When conditions allow we also explore the coastline by sea kayak.

Protected bays such as Skontorp Cove are ideal for paddling among icebergs and wildlife, offering a different perspective on the Antarctic landscape.

These quieter days balance the more demanding ski objectives and allow us to explore the environment in depth.

Who This Expedition Is For

This expedition is designed for experienced ski tourers who are comfortable travelling in remote environments.

Participants should be able to:

• Ski confidently in variable snow
• Tour efficiently with skins and ski crampons
• Travel safely in glaciated terrain as part of a guided team

Previous expedition experience is helpful but not required. Guides manage route finding, glacier travel, and safety systems, but everyone on the team contributes to the expedition.

You should also be comfortable spending time aboard a sailing vessel and helping with simple tasks during the voyage.

The Team

The expedition is led by an experienced polar team combining professional mountain guides and seasoned sailors.

Phil Wickens – Expedition Leader

Phil organizes and leads ski mountaineering and backcountry operations. He has more than two decades of experience guiding and running expeditions in Antarctica.

Tom Wolfe – IFMGA Mountain Guide

Tom is the founder of Sawback Alpine Adventures and has guided ski mountaineering expeditions across the Arctic, Antarctica, and major mountain ranges worldwide.

Supporting Phil and Tom is a highly experienced sailing crew responsible for navigating the vessel through Antarctic waters and positioning the team for the best objectives.

Expedition Style

Our approach is deliberately small and flexible.

Large ships visit Antarctica every year, but very few trips are designed specifically for ski mountaineering. By travelling with a small team aboard a sailing vessel we can reach quieter anchorages and respond quickly to weather and ice.

This creates opportunities that simply do not exist on larger expedition cruises.

Join the Expedition

Antarctica is not an easy place to reach, and opportunities to ski here are limited.

Each season we run a small number of expeditions with a limited number of places available.

If skiing in Antarctica has been on your mind for a while, this is the kind of trip that makes it possible.

Ski Touring in Northern Norway

Northern Norway is world-famous for its “Fjell til Fjord” skiing—peaks rising directly from the sea. Seiland House offers some of the best terrain in the region, set on a remote island north of 70° latitude in the Norwegian Sea. Despite its arctic location, access is simple: daily flights from Oslo to Alta followed by a short ferry ride bring you straight into this hidden gem.

If you’re looking for an exotic European destination with a reliable snowpack, Seiland delivers:

• Remote arctic fjords and mountains bordering a national park
• Exclusive access—escape the crowds of Lofoten and Lyngen
• Superb hospitality with local cuisine, wood-fired hot tub, and sauna
• Ski directly above the lodge or take a short boat ride across Altnesfjord or to nearby Stjernøya Island

Sea-to-Summit Adventures

Much of Seiland’s terrain is accessible only by boat. The highlight is Seilandstuva, the island’s highest peak, with sweeping views over Norway’s northernmost glaciers and unforgettable descents straight to the sea. Across the Stjernsund Strait, a 20-minute crossing brings us to Stjernøya (Sami: Stierdná), home to dramatic fjords and tours such as Rottenhallen, the island’s tallest peak.

A typical day begins from Seiland House’s dock by motorboat. Tours gain 800–1300 m of vertical (3–5 hours of ascent) and often descend via different routes, finishing in another fjord where the boat collects us for the return—true “sea-to-summit” skiing.

Culture and History

Unlike Svalbard, which has no indigenous history, Northern Norway has been home to both Norse settlers and the indigenous Sámi for thousands of years. Seiland itself sits at the crossroads of two Sámi traditions: reindeer herding and coastal fishing. The island still serves as summer pasture for reindeer, isolated from mainland predators such as wolverine and lynx.

The name Seiland is ancient, derived from Proto-Norse Sai-aujo (“sea-island”). In Norse times it transformed first to Sæ-ey, later shortened to Sei, with land (“island”) added afterwards. The Northern Sámi name Sievju likely reflects an old loan of this form.

Nearby Stjernøya also carries an ancient name. Its Sami form Stierdná means “star,” inspired by the deep fjords and long, thin peninsulas on the island’s north end that suggested star-like rays to Viking sailors.

Inussuit Lodge offers a superb base for a week of exploratory ski touring in the mountains and fjords of West Greenland. Set in a remote wilderness near Maniitsoq, the lodge gives us access to an enormous variety of largely untracked terrain, with alpine summits rising directly above the sea, broad glaciers, long valleys, and descents running almost to the water.

Each day we use local boats to travel through the fjords and reach the best skiing for the conditions, effectively turning the coastline into our trailhead. This mobility opens up a huge area and allows us to choose objectives according to weather, snow quality, and the ambitions of the group. Expect long, scenic ski tours, summit-to-sea descents, and the exploratory character that makes Greenland such an exceptional ski destination.

Inussuit Lodge itself is comfortable, secluded, and ideally positioned for a small group. Breakfast, packed lunches, and dinner are provided, leaving us free to focus each day on skiing and exploring one of the least developed mountain regions in the Arctic.

Explore Arctic Norway by Sailboat and Skis

Our Fjords of Northern Norway program is a one-week ski and sail adventure aboard the Saeftinghe, a classic expedition sailing vessel perfectly suited to exploring the rugged coastline of Arctic Norway. Each itinerary focuses on a different region and seasonal window, moving progressively north through the islands, fjords, and alpine terrain that make northern Norway one of the world’s great ski touring destinations.

From the granite peaks of Lofoten and Vesterålen to the dramatic mountains of Senja, the glaciated summits of the Lyngen Alps, and the remote fjords of West Finnmark, these trips combine exceptional skiing with the flexibility and atmosphere that only a sailing vessel can provide.

Far From the Crowds

Northern Norway has become one of the world’s premier ski touring destinations, particularly in the Lyngen Alps where spring conditions can attract significant traffic on the classic routes. Travelling by sailboat changes the experience completely.

Rather than operating from roads and fixed accommodations, we move with the conditions, anchoring deep within fjords and close to ideal ski objectives. This allows access to quieter terrain, remote islands, and long summit-to-sea descents rarely reached by day-tourers. Combined with the experience of travelling aboard a classic Arctic sailing vessel under the guidance of an experienced captain and crew, the result is a true expedition-style ski touring experience.

2027 Itineraries

Week 1: Lofoten and Vesterålen

• February 27 - March 6
• Embarkation: Harstad
• Disembarkation: Harstad

This early-season itinerary explores the maritime ski touring terrain of Lofoten, Vesterålen, and southern Troms. Depending on conditions, the route may extend into the northern Lofoten Islands before working back through the fjords and islands surrounding Harstad, Grytøya, and Andørja. Early March offers excellent opportunities for northern lights viewing combined with increasingly long Arctic days.

Week 2: Vesterålen, Senja, and Troms

• March 6 - 13
• Embarkation: Harstad
• Disembarkation: Tromsø

Beginning in Harstad and working north toward Tromsø, this itinerary links together the steep coastal mountains of Vesterålen and Senja with the alpine terrain of northern Troms. Sharp granite peaks, deep fjords, and long summit-to-sea descents define this spectacular section of coastline. Northern lights viewing often remains possible during clear evenings.

Week 3: Lyngen Alps and West Finnmark

• March 13 - 20
• Embarkation: Tromsø
• Disembarkation: Alta

This itinerary explores the classic ski touring terrain between Tromsø, the Lyngen Alps, and West Finnmark. Possible destinations include Kågen, Arnøya, Seiland, and the fjords surrounding Øksfjord and Stjernøya. Long spring descents directly to the sea, glaciated alpine terrain, and increasingly stable snow conditions define this period of the season.

Week 4: West Finnmark, Lyngen, and Troms**

• March 20 - 27
• Embarkation: Alta
• Disembarkation: Tromsø

Beginning in Alta and working south toward Tromsø, this itinerary revisits the spectacular terrain of West Finnmark and Lyngen during one of the best periods of the Arctic spring ski season. Longer daylight hours, stable maritime snowpacks, and flexible boat-supported access combine to create outstanding conditions for ski touring among the fjords and islands of northern Norway.

Helicopter-Accessed Ski Touring Lodge | 12 Guests Per Week

Burnie Glacier Chalet is a small, helicopter-accessed ski touring lodge in the Howson Range of northern British Columbia, set in a glaciated basin with direct access to surrounding alpine terrain. Each week is limited to 12 guests.

Above the lodge, terrain rises directly into glaciated alpine, where single objectives of 1200-1500 m are common. The surrounding tenure sits within Tazdli Wyiez Bin / Burnie-Shea Provincial Park, ensuring long-term protection of the operating area.

Terrain and Snowpack

Burnie sits in one of the most concentrated ski touring zones in the Coast Mountains. The terrain ranges from glaciated alpine bowls and long fall-line descents to 800 m tree runs directly behind the lodge, ideal for storm skiing.

The maritime snowpack is deep and reliable, supporting consistent mid-winter powder skiing and stable spring conditions. Burnie stands out among ski touring lodges for its terrain and vertical potential, with objectives selected daily based on weather, stability, and the group’s pace.

Position Within Canadian Ski Lodges

Burnie is widely regarded as one of the strongest ski touring lodges in Canada, combining terrain quality, snow reliability, and logistical simplicity.

Despite its location in northern British Columbia, Burnie is straightforward to access. Guests fly to Smithers, where the helicopter base is located directly at the airport for a simple transfer to the lodge.

As John Baldwin notes in Exploring the Coast Mountains on Skis:

“A deluxe backcountry ski chalet offering unparalleled ski mountaineering in the spectacular Howson Range.”

Ownership and Operations

The chalet was established in 2001 by Christoph Dietzfelbinger and operated continuously for over two decades. It is now owned and operated by Tom Wolfe and Deborah Lantz of Sawback Alpine Adventures, with a continued focus on small groups, high-quality guiding, and consistent execution.

Here’s a recent post that talks about the transition, including an interview with Tom. Enjoy!

The classic Wapta Ski Traverse is one of North America’s great ski mountaineering journeys. The route runs roughly north-south across the broad expanse of the Wapta and Waputik Icefields, crossing the glaciated spine of the Continental Divide through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way the traverse links together a remarkable chain of Alpine Club of Canada huts, beginning near Peyto Lake and finishing below Sherbrooke Lake at the historic Great Divide Lodge.

For decades the Wapta Traverse has earned a legendary reputation among ski mountaineers, and for good reason. Few trips combine such accessible glacier travel, spectacular alpine scenery, excellent hut infrastructure, and classic ski mountaineering terrain in a single itinerary. Long glacier descents, high cols, rolling icefields, and prominent summits create an ideal setting for both experienced backcountry skiers and developing ski mountaineers looking to expand their alpine experience.

Late March through late April is generally considered the prime season for the Wapta. The snowpack is typically more settled and predictable while still offering the possibility of excellent powder skiing, winter conditions in the alpine, and increasingly long spring days.

Our trip begins in Field, British Columbia, where we meet at 6:30 pm on Day 1 at the Truffle Pigs Bistro. Dinner and hotel accommodation are included in the trip fee. The following morning we shuttle north to Peyto Lake where the traverse begins. Vehicle shuttle logistics are handled for you, allowing for a smooth point-to-point journey back to Field at the end of the trip.

This itinerary follows the classic Wapta Traverse but with an important refinement: a two-night stay at Peyto Hut. This allows more time to explore the exceptional ski mountaineering terrain surrounding the Waputik Icefield rather than simply rushing through the traverse. Excellent nearby objectives may include Peyto Peak, Mount Rhondda, and long glacier tours extending toward the Peyto Glacier headwall.

From Peyto Hut we continue southward across the icefields to Bow Hut and Balfour Hut before crossing the spectacular High Balfour Col onto the Scott Duncan Hut side of the divide. The final day exits via Sherbrooke Creek, completing a true classic of Canadian ski mountaineering.

Join us for a guided backcountry ski touring or splitboarding day in the Canadian Rockies. These programs are designed as objective-based outings with a strong educational component woven throughout the day. They are an ideal way to experience more complex mountain terrain under the leadership of fully certified ACMG / IFMGA ski guides while developing your own mountain travel, avalanche assessment, route finding, and ski mountaineering skills.

Our day programs are based primarily around the Lake Louise region, with objectives selected according to current weather, avalanche conditions, group experience, and skiing quality. Depending on conditions, possible venues may include Rogers Pass, Bow Summit, the Wapta Icefield approaches, Dolomite Pass, Observation Peak, Hidden Lake, Cirque Peak, the Icefields Parkway, and classic ski mountaineering objectives throughout Banff and Yoho National Parks.

Because of their accessibility, flexibility, and relatively low logistical commitment, these programs have become extremely popular with Calgary-based skiers and splitboarders looking to maximize quality mountain days without committing to a multi-day hut trip.

The final objective and meeting logistics will be confirmed during the pre-trip briefing once current conditions have been assessed. Guided skiing and splitboarding is one of the best ways to safely expand your mountain experience, gain confidence in more committing terrain, and enjoy exceptional days in the Rockies with a professional guide team.

WD27: Wapta in a Day

For strong and motivated ski tourers, our “Wapta in a Day” program offers an ambitious single-day traverse of the famous Wapta Icefield. Starting early near Bow Lake and finishing at Sherbrooke Lake, this classic Rockies objective combines glacier travel, route finding, endurance, and long alpine descents in a spectacular high-mountain setting. Expect a full-value day with approximately 35 km of travel and significant elevation gain and loss. Good fitness, efficient transitions, and prior ski touring experience are essential.

Close to Golden, British Columbia, nestled in the Esplanade Range just east of Rogers Pass is a string of perfectly situated ski chalets: Golden Alpine Holidays. Sunrise Lodge is one of the “original three” built by Alison Dakin and Brad Harrison back in the 1990s. Sunrise Lodge is located at the headwaters of Wisted Creek and offers stunning views of Rockies to the west and Purcells to the south. Sunrise is the southern gateway to the amazing Esplanade range, including Meadow, Vista and Sentry Lodges. Consensus among those who’ve spent time at all four Esplanade Range Huts though is that Sunrise is the best for midwinter skiing: best terrain, best for storm skiing, and best snowpack of the bunch!

BIG GLACIERS, DEEP POWDER, AND EXPLORATORY SPRING SKI MOUNTAINEERING

This is the quintessential Canadian wilderness ski experience. We fly deep into the mountains and explore a spectacular area from the comforts of a basecamp.

Our 2027 Ski Camp destination has not been announced yet -- here's a description from our 2026 Freshfield Ski Camp which was an overwhelming success.

The Freshfield Icefield, near Golden, BC, offer some of the best ski terrain on the planet. This remote area is perched on the divide of the Canadian Rockies and is well known for spring ski mountaineering. It has huge, broken glaciers and many beautiful summits. April is the perfect time of year to visit, with a deep snowpack, long days, and powder snow. As with much of British Columbia, it’s very difficult to access these mountains without a helicopter. This style of trip allows us the flexibility to explore remote and seldom-visited corners of the province.

During a typical day, we’ll get up early to take advantage of good travel conditions, have a quick breakfast, and set off on the day’s adventure. With tired legs, we’ll return to camp in the early afternoon, exchange stories, share drinks and appies, and lounge in the sun. This is perhaps the best part of this kind of trip — a true opportunity to disconnect, be immersed in nature, and connect with friends.

The exact camp location will be a last-minute decision based on conditions and the weather forecast. We will have a large Mountain Hardwear space station tent for hanging out, and may use an additional tent for cooking depending on the group size. All food is provided, except snacks.

Check out this video from the Freshfields.

The Bugs to Rogers traverse is arguably the most coveted ski traverse in Western Canada. It starts with the spectacular Bugaboos and continues across the beautiful northern section of the Purcells, finishing with a high line through the Selkirk Mountains to Rogers Pass.

Tucked high on a granite shoulder of Mount Woden at roughly 6 900 ft / 2 100 m, Valhalla Mountain Lodge (VML) looks straight into the powder‑catching bowls of the central Selkirks, just north of Valhalla Provincial Park and about 70 km from Nelson, British Columbia. Guests rendezvous in the hamlet of Burton on the Arrow Lakes and load an A‑Star for a 12‑minute hop up to the lodge each Saturday, a schedule chosen to match the area’s notoriously tight weather windows. VML was one of the province’s first purpose‑built backcountry ski lodges. Construction began in the mid‑1980s after two tree‑planter‑turned‑ski‑bums—Brian “Bomber” Cross and Leo Jansma—secured a remote‑touring tenure and packed lumber in by helicopter and on foot. Both men remain equal partners and still rotate weeks as custodians, guides and unofficial storytellers.

Private ski touring trip based in Battle Range

Looking for a quick powder escape without the logistics and commitment of a hut trip? Our G-Town Weekend Ski Camps are built around flexibility, comfort, and great skiing.

Based out of Golden, BC, these weekends provide access to an enormous range of ski touring terrain in the Purcells, Selkirks, and Rocky Mountains. Rogers Pass, Field, the Icefields Parkway, and lesser-known local zones are all within reach depending on weather, avalanche conditions, and group objectives.

Rather than committing to a fixed lodge or hut itinerary, we stay in comfortable town-based accommodation and build each day around finding the best possible skiing. One morning we may head west toward Rogers Pass for classic glacier touring; the next we might drive east toward Field or the Rockies in search of colder snow, better visibility, or more stable conditions.

Golden also offers a much more relaxed and comfortable experience than a traditional hut trip. Guests can choose private accommodation, enjoy excellent restaurants and cafés, dry gear properly overnight, and recover comfortably between ski days.

Each morning you meet your ACMG / IFMGA guide at the designated departure point for the day before heading out in search of the best conditions available.

Japan has formed a legendary reputation for deep powder skiing in early winter. The saying “Don’t Leave Powder to Find Powder” is common in western Canada – why leave Canada when we have the best skiing in the world? Well, Japan is a strong contender, and when you add the incredible cultural experience to the mix it rises to the top of any serious skier’s bucket list.

In 2026 we are once again offering two Japan ski trips: JP26-1 starts and finishes at New Chitose airport and explores the iconic Niseko and Furano areas. JP26-2 starts in Yuzawa, a short train ride north of Tokyo, and finishes in Hakuba town. Take your pick — or, better yet, if you can’t decide between the two, join us for both for a 3-week JaPOW trip of a lifetime.

One of the side-effects of the strong popularity of skiing in Japan has been the erosion of the cultural experience. Hearing complaints of “I was skiing tracks with a bunch of Australians” I decided to seek the advice of Japan-born Whistler-based Jun Yanagisawa. I met Jun heli-skiing in northern BC and immediately admired his gracious Japanese manners, sense of humour, and powerful, elegant ski technique. Born and raised in Tokyo, Jun was an avid skier from childhood. In search of wilderness, Jun eventually immigrated to Whistler, British Columbia where he has worked for close to 30 years in the ski and tourism industry, moving between his native Japan and western Canada’s heli- and ski-touring.

I said to Jun, “Let’s do a Japan trip together, but let’s see some weird funky Japanese culture!” Jun said, “Leave it to me Tom-san!”

The result has been a series of trips that has pleased and delighted our guests. Please join us next season to experience it for yourself!

This is a grand tour of the best of the Japan Alps, a rugged alpine range north of Tokyo, legendary for its deep powder snow and made famous by snow monkeys and the 18th Olympic Winter Games in 1988.

Japan has formed a legendary reputation for deep powder skiing in early winter. The saying “Don’t Leave Powder to Find Powder” is common in western Canada – why leave Canada when we have the best skiing in the world? Well, Japan is a strong contender, and when you add the incredible cultural experience to the mix it rises to the top of any serious skier’s bucket list.

In 2027 we are once again offering two Japan ski trips:

• JP27-1 → Hokkaido Ski Tour
  Starts and finishes at New Chitose Airport and explores the iconic Niseko and Furano areas.

• JP27-2 → Japan Alps Ski Tour
  Starts in Yuzawa, a short train ride north of Tokyo, and finishes in Hakuba town.

Take your pick - or better yet, if you cannot decide between the two, join us for both for a three-week JaPOW trip of a lifetime.

One of the side-effects of the strong popularity of skiing in Japan has been the erosion of the cultural experience. Hearing complaints of “I was skiing tracks with a bunch of Australians,” I decided to seek the advice of Japan-born Whistler-based Jun Yanagisawa. I met Jun heli-skiing in northern BC and immediately admired his gracious Japanese manners, sense of humour, and powerful, elegant ski technique.

Born and raised in Tokyo, Jun was an avid skier from childhood. In search of wilderness, Jun eventually immigrated to Whistler, British Columbia where he has worked for close to 30 years in the ski and tourism industry, moving between his native Japan and western Canada’s heli- and ski-touring.

I said to Jun, “Let’s do a Japan trip together, but let’s see some weird funky Japanese culture!”

Jun said, “Leave it to me Tom-san!”

Since that whacky and inspiring first trip with Jun our Japan program has developed and refined year after year into a sampling of some of the best skiing Japan has to offer at authentic ryokans, offering a glimpse at a side of Japanese culture that is slowly fading.

• Quick snapshot → Why ski touring in Japan is so special

Our friend and JaPOW Trip Coordinator Satoshi Kawano sums it up perfectly in about 20 seconds: deep powder skiing, hot onsens, incredible food, and the strangely wonderful world of Japanese convenience stores. Enjoy!

• Reference → Tsubame Highland Lodge – Staying at the Wild Side of Myoko

This blog post on Snow-Forecast highlights what I mean by that last paragraph. It shows why Japan trips are so special but also hints at the changes already underway. It also showcases one of the lodges we’ve enjoyed using over the years. Hopefully it doesn’t change - but I know it will.

North of Rogers Pass is a chain of high glaciated peaks that forms the Northern Selkirks Traverse. We begin the trip near Sorcerer Lodge at Ventego Lake at the base of the south face of Mt. Iconoclast. Over the course of 7 days we work our way northward, exiting either via Stitt Creek or over the Adamants and fly out from Fairy Meadow.

This is a gorgeous traverse with many excellent ski objectives. The bonus of this trip is the camping, which is consistently in the shelter of the treeline. It passes through some of the most famous ski zones in the Selkirks including Bachelor Creek, Mount Sir Sanford and the Great Cairn hut, and finally the Adamants.

The Northern Selkirks Traverse serves as an excellent introduction to the Great Traverses. This version takes about a week versus the original traverse which had a long start from the road (we skip that part using a helicopter) and continued all the way to Mica Dam several days further north of Fairy Meadow.

Join us in April for a trip of a lifetime in the Northern Selkirks!

Burnie Glacier Chalet in the Summer!

Mountain summits, old growth forests, kaleidoscope colours of volcanic rock, turquoise blue lakes, sprawling glaciers, and thigh high wildflower meadows.

Where are we?

Burnie Glacier Chalet is a beautiful but simple backcountry lodge nestled on the edge of the remote Howson Range southwest of Smithers, British Columbia. It is in the Kwees House territory of the Wet’suwet’en.

Accessible by floatplanes in the summer (and helicopters in winter), the lodge is perched just above 1000 m in a U‑shaped alpine bowl ringed by 2500‑ to 2700‑metre glaciated peaks. The surrounding valley system was protected in 2008 as Tazdli Wyiez Bin / Burnie‑Shea Provincial Park, ensuring the operating area remains protected for generations to come.

What's happening?

Experience wilderness lodge living, catered nourishing meals, daily hiking, adventure tours not far from the lodge, music and art based programs, forest bathing too! Here's a sampler of this summer's programs (see Tour Plan tab above for more details / swipe right or left for mobile):

Sing and Sourdough with Pharis Romero and Shannon O'Donovan! Dates under Booking link and see Tour Plan tab for more details.

• Click here to go to the Sing and Sourdough page!

Forest Bathing and Alpine Hiking (Shinrin-yoku! Nourishing Nature Rest and Recovery) with Ronna Schneberger (2027 dates to be decided);

• See Tour Plan tab for more details.
• Click here to go to the Forest Bathing page!

Plein Air! Both Informal, and Formal with Instruction options. Dates under booking link and see Tour Plan tab for more details

• Click here to go to the Plein Air page!

Adventure Tours hiking, rock climbing, glacier lake dipping, glacier travel, rest, recover, repeat! various dates - see booking link for multiple date options and Tour Plan tab for more details

Alpine Hiking - Mountain tops, traverses, old growth forests to alpine summits. Views for miles and miles. Back to the cozy chalet in the evening to share great food, make new friends, and recount the day's adventures. See booking link for multiple date options and Tour Plan tab for more details and contact us to book!

Fitness, yoga, and meditation retreats - contact us to book!

Music and art residencies - contact us to book!

Group/Family Lodge rental - contact us to book!

Sing and Sourdough at the Burnie Glacier Chalet

Do you like singing? Bread? Hiking?

Join us Sept 1-5 at the beautiful Burnie Glacier Chalet for a unique and very fun experience!

Two talented and creative forces joining up for one incredible Burnie program! Shannon O'Donovan and Pharis Romero are offering an entirely unique and creative bundling of baking and singing in our favourite backcountry setting!

Watch, learn, and enjoy a variety of sourdough delights with the wild backdrop of a backcountry setting with Chef Shannon. Then tune up your harmonies or simply find your voice with down to earth and multi-Juno decorated, local vocalist/musician Pharis Romero. And to top it off, travel the local trails by the cascading Burnie Glacier, surrounding peaks, wildflowers and turquoise lakes with an ACMG certified hiking guide.

What to expect:

A unique, intimate, and VERY FUN experience in a wilderness lodge setting - The beautiful Burnie Glacier Chalet. Take a break from the outside world and join us for inspiring and playful instruction for both your singing and your sourdough skills - at any stage in your development - based out of our cozy backcountry lodge. Comfy beds, beautiful views, catered nourishing meals, daily hiking, glacial lake dips, and a relaxing sauna, await you.

Sample itinerary of our program:

Day 1:

Sept 1 Take the extremely scenic float plane to Burnie Lake

1. 8:30 am Meet at Telkwa Alpine Lakes Air for 9 am flight in to Burnie Lake
2. 9:30 am Enjoy the lakefront/meander!
3. 10:30 am Wander up to the lodge (gentle 4 km hike) and get settled into your rooms
4. 12:00 am Lunchtime and lodge welcome
5. 1:00 pm Singing with Pharis
6. 3:00 pm Free-time
7. 5:00 pm Appy and Sourdough chat with Shannon
8. 6:30 pm Dinner
9. 8:00 pm Freetime/Bedtime/Get to know each other

See Tour Plan tab above (mobiles swipe right/left on the Tab Bar above) for full sample itinerary

A Creative, Delicious, and Adventurous program!

We'll make music, we'll make bread! (other delights too), and we'll hike around and explore. Space is limited for this intimate retreat—grab your spot today!

More about Singing with Pharis:

Daily singing time will include instruction in some of the basics (breathing and resonance, as needed, when needed!) alongside ear training specifically for singers. We will do some deep dives into being a successful harmony singing chameleon, communicating the message of your song, and expanding your repertoire of easily remembered and shared songs. Master classes and individual instruction will also be available as time and group needs permit. And most important of all, we’ll just sing together!

More about Sourdough with Shannon:

Chef Shannon O'Donovan really elevates mountain baking. Her sourdough breads are crafted with love, skill, and carefully harnessed sourdough magic. She'll show us how she feeds, forms, and finishes her creations with ongoing and ample opportunities to enjoy the results!

More about Hiking with Deb:

Explore the beautiful trails and terrain surrounding Burnie Glacier Chalet. Gems near and farther afield will delight you. Mountain lakes, old growth forests, sprawling glaciers, lookouts and even a summit option or two.

Plein air painting at Burnie Glacier Chalet with Sarah Belford. All experience levels and mediums welcome. Very limited availability.

• Paint alongside fellow emerging and established artists at Burnie Glacier Chalet! Talented and passionate local artist Sarah Belford will be present to provide instruction and support as desired.
• Venture out daily to extremely beautiful nearby vistas.
• Rugged mountains, tumbling glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, forests, and swaths of wildflowers.
• Enjoy the cozy comforts of Burnie Glacier Chalet: nourishing meals, comfortable beds.
• Bring home your own beautiful and memorable images of a pristine and remote corner of BC's majestic mountain landscape.

Day 1 Itinerary: Sept 8: Scenic float plane to Burnie Lake, move in, and paint!

• 8:30am Meet at Telkwa Alpine Lakes Air for 9 am flight in to Burnie Lake
• 9:30am Enjoy the lakefront/meander!
• 10:30am Wander up to the lodge (gentle 5 km hike through ferns, forest, and alpine views) and get settled into your rooms
• 12:00pm Lunchtime and lodge welcome
• 1:30pm Plein Air intro session with Sarah at Anderwasser Lake above the Lodge
• 4:30pm Free-time
• 6:00pm Dinner
• 7:00pm Welcome and get to know each other

See Tour Plan tab for the rest of the trip details!