A Backcountry Hut Adventure in Wells Gray Provincial Park
Trip Details
Kickstart your season in true backcountry style! The Winter Solstice Hut Trip offers four days of guided skiing and skill-building based out of the cozy Trophy Hut in Wells Gray Provincial Park. This is your chance to get back into the rhythm of the winter season, build confidence, and grab some early-season turns before the holidays.
- Dates: December 18-21, 2024
- Location: Trophy Mountain Chalet, Wells Gray Provincial Park
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Group Size: Minimum of 4, maximum of 8
What to Expect
Whether you’re dusting off the gear or prepping for bigger trips later in the season, this trip is designed for backcountry skiers who are looking to get the season started off on the right foot. Here’s an example of what each day could include:
- Guided Ski Touring: Our days will be packed with ski touring oppertunities tailored to the group’s skill level, covering varied terrain and plenty(come on La Niña!) of early-season snow.
- Skill Development: Beyond searching out soft snow for skiing, each day will feature skills sessions on route finding, avalanche terrain management, efficient transitions, and safe group travel.
- Cozy Evenings at Trophy Hut: After each day’s exploits, unwind at Trophy Hut, tucked away at the edge of treeline. Enjoy hearty meals, relax in the sauna, and soak in the solitude of Wells Gray during the dark days of December.
Who It’s For
This trip is perfect for those who want to start the season strong! If you’re an intermediate to advanced downhill skier looking to refine your backcountry skills, get familiar with the snowpack, and meet a fun, supportive group of fellow adventurers, then this is for you.
Skill Level Required
- Confident ski/riding ability in variable snow conditions and varied terrain (reach out if you are unsure)
- Previous backcountry experience and an avalanche safety course are recommended but not mandatory
- Days will be shorter due to limited daylight, expect about 4-6 hours on your skis each day
- The pace will be nice and steady with lots of opportunities for breaks
Regarding Ski/Riding Ability
This trip is tailored for backcountry skiers who possess strong downhill ski ability. This is not the place to learn how to ski, but rather a chance to work on your touring specific skills and increase your confidence in the backcountry. We always encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or are unsure if this trip is a good fit for you.
Included
- Guided Backcountry Skiing with ACMG certified guide
- Three nights at Trophy Mountain Chalet
- All food while at the hut: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Skill Sessions focusing on navigation, ski touring movement, and avalanche safety
- Snowcat ride to the trailhead
Not Included
- Transportation to our meetup location in Clearwater, BC
- Personal backcountry equipment and clothing (packing list available)
- Trip Cancellation & Evacuation Insurance
Why Join the Winter Solstice Trip?
Get a Head Start on the Season: Don’t let the first big powder day be the one where you try and remember how your gear works—get into winter mode early!
Connect with fellow skiers: Enjoy a small group, plenty of laughs, and the kind of camaraderie that only a hut trip can bring.
Experience Wells Gray: With snow already falling in the mountains, Wells Gray in December can offer incredible conditions and that magical deep winter atmosphere.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Skin In
Meet the group, review safety protocols, and then enjoy a scenic skin into the Trophy Chalet. Settle in with a hot drink, review the plan for the days ahead, and dive into the first evening’s session. If time allows we will go for a short tour close to the hut.
Days 2 & 3: Guided Skiing and Skill Sessions
Each day combines guided skiing with focused skill practice. Depending on conditions, we’ll cover terrain choice, skin track setting, and practical avalanche rescue techniques.
Day 4: Wrap-Up and Ski Out
After breakfast, we’ll wrap up our skills training and then finish our adventure with a ski out back to the vehicles, ready for the season ahead.
Life at Trophy
Trophy Mountain Chalet features two floors. The upper floor is newly renovated and accommodates eight furnished rooms. Downstairs is the living area with a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, a drying area with drying racks and a shelf of books and games. Attached to the cabin is a change room with a sink and a cedar sauna. This means that you can go right to the sauna from inside of the building. Additionally, two composting toilets are conveniently located in a separate outhouse nearby.
The cabin is heated with a propane furnace, keeping the cabin evenly heated throughout the day. The electricity stems solely from solar panels, providing enough power for a small charging station capable of charging a few items such as phones. For communication and safety, the cabin is equipped with a base station radio, enabling us to receive daily weather and avalanche hazard forecasts from Wells Gray Adventure’s office.
Situated at 2050m on a south facing slope overlooking Raft Mountain, you’ll revel in absolute solitude during your stay here.
Waiver Requirement
To join the Winter Solstice Hut Trip, all participants must read and agree to the waiver prior to registration. Additionally, each participant will be required to sign the waiver in person on the first day of the trip. This step is essential to ensure everyone’s understanding of the inherent risks involved in backcountry skiing. Please review the waiver carefully. You can find the waiver HERE
Price Breakdown
This trip requires a minimum of 4 participants to run. The cost decreases for everyone as more people sign up. If we reach more than 6 participants, I’ll bring in a second guide or tail guide to ensure safety and quality instruction. Here’s the price breakdown:
- 4 Participants: $2,265 per person
- 5 Participants: $1,950 per person
- 6-8 Participants: $1,695 per person
(All taxes included. The price you see here is what you pay. Simple and easy)
To secure your spot, a $750 non-refundable deposit is required. The final payment is due by December 1, 2024. Prior to registering, you must read and agree to our CANCELLATION POLICY and complete our PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT. It is also highly recommended that you read our RISK DISCLOSURE statement.
Ready to Shake Off the Rust?
Reserve your spot and beat the solstice gloom with fresh snow, sharpened skills, and great company!