Lodge Based Touring
What do I need to know before signing up?
Ability
While almost all guests arrive with previous touring experience, it is not strictly required, provided you’re tough enough. However, each participant must possess strong intermediate downhill abilities at a minimum, including the ability to ski or ride in variable snow conditions, powder, trees, and short sections of steep terrain. In general, if there aren’t many runs at the ski resort that you’d shy away from riding, and you enjoy riding pow, you’re probably in good shape. We’ll spend several hours each day walking uphill, so some general hiking fitness goes a long way as well. There is no requirement for previous avalanche education - each trip includes a basic review of avalanche rescue techniques, including hands-on practice with your transceiver, probe, and shovel.
Logistics
Every lodge is different, and detailed logistics for each trip will be given at the time of booking. Generally speaking, each trip includes helicopter access, 7 nights of lodging, 2 guides, 1 chef, all meals (except for lunch on the first day), and 2-3 beers per person per night. All lodges have a wood burning sauna, some sort of shower system, and reasonably comfortable beds.
Equipment
Other than radios, no equipment is provided. Read through the gear list - it is your responsibility to ensure you have everything on it for each day of skiing. You’ll also want to bring a few small things to stay comfortable at the lodge, but amenities vary, and a detailed packing list will be provided upon booking. If you have questions, or need help deciding what to bring, don’t hesitate to reach out. If you plan to rent equipment, Revelstoke Powder Rentals is great for items like touring skis, splitboards, skins, boots, poles, and avalanche safety gear.
Transportation
You’ll be responsible for your own transportation to the heli staging area, but carpools are often possible (and encouraged). Make sure that you either have access to a vehicle, or make plans ahead of time to catch a ride with somebody else on your trip.
Waiver
Each guest is required to read and agree to a waiver prior to their trip. Please view the waiver ahead of time, and reach out if you have any questions about it.
Payment
Exact trip costs vary, and can be found on the following page. To secure your spot, an advance deposit of $500 CAD is required. The remainder of your balance will be split up into 3 additional payments, due over the course of the summer in 1 month intervals. Payment via Interac e-transfer is preferred for Canadian guests (adamzokskiguide@gmail.com), but you may also request a credit card invoice (best for international travellers). In the event that you need to cancel, the amount refunded will depend on how much notice is given, as follows:
>6 months prior to trip start: full refund minus your deposit ($500 CAD)
3-6 months prior to trip start: 75% refund
1-3 months prior to trip start: 50% refund
<1 month prior to trip start: no refund
To minimize the risk of financial loss, trip insurance from a 3rd party provider should be considered. Depending on your policy, this may provide coverage for a missed exchange and shortened trip due to unacceptable weather conditions for helicopter travel, for which no compensation is typically offered. Lifestyle Financial is a common choice, and can be obtained via the link below:
