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Questions I've been getting about the Canadian Rockies trip
And maybe most importantly, I mentioned an early booking discount, but I forgot to include the code (more on that below)!
The price of this adventure is fully all-inclusive from the moment we meet in Calgary. That means the chartered shuttle from Calgary to Golden and back, welcome dinner and hotel in Golden, the helicopter in and out, cozy accomodations and all meals at Purcell Mountain lodge, guided hikes every day, and a pro-quality photo book after the trip (with pics taken by yours truly).
In addition to our time at the lodge, our private shuttle to Golden travels along one of the most beautiful roads in the Canadian Rockies. This will be a full day of curated stops through Banff and Yoho National Parks.
We will be stopping at turquoise glacial lakes, cascading waterfalls, and quieter spots that are off the beaten path, with a yummy lunch and all fees included in your trip price. By the time we sit down for our welcome dinner in Golden, you'll already have a full day of the Canadian Rockies under your belt.
And the best part? You don't have to research or plan a thing. You get to just show up and enjoy the ride.
"This is our 5th...6th...? time visiting Purcell Mountain Lodge. We have visited many backcountry lodges in the B.C & Alberta Rockies, but return each summer to Purcell. The hiking trails are a perfect terrain, the views are majestic & magnificent. Jackie Mah & her lodge staff, & guides accommodate all our needs, and are wonderfully positive people. The food is plentiful & delicious, and the lodge is so comfortable. We can't get enough. See you next year!" -Veena S
"Amazing experience at Purcell Lodge. The hiking was incredible and our guide Jason was very knowledgeable and accommodated the groups pace. Lots of wildlife including bears to see and the views were out of this world. The chef's food was an event every time it was served. Lot's of thought went into everything made and it was tasted amazing." -Dan B
"Our stay at Purcell Lodge was perfect. The food was outstanding, the guides were spectacular, the lodge exceeded my expectations for comfort and amenities. The guides customized the hikes to everyone's ability and made the hiking so enjoyable. I can't say enough about the whole experience." -Sue C
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to a few questions I've been getting:
How hard is the hiking?
There will be something for everyone. The guides split the group every day based on pace and how much of a challenge you're looking for. If you want a more relaxed day meandering through meadows, that option is there. If you want to push it with longer routes, bigger elevation gain, summits, and ridgelines, that option is there too.
We'll figure out the specific hikes after a conversation with the guides once we're at the lodge, so the days are shaped around what the group actually wants. No technical experience is required. If you hike any type of terrain regularly, you'll be comfortable.
What does a typical day at the lodge look like?
Early risers can grab coffee on the deck and take in the morning views before a plated breakfast at 8:00 am. We head out with the guides and our picnic lunches by 9:30 and spend the full day in the mountains. When we get back to the lodge in the afternoon, fresh appetizers and drinks are waiting on the veranda. From there, it's sauna sessions, a three-course gourmet dinner, and the conversation around the fireplace.
Will I have my own room?
This is not a bunk-room situation. Couples will be placed in a private room with one queen bed. Friends traveling together will be placed in a private room with a queen bed and a twin bed. Solo travelers have the option to be paired with another solo traveler in a room with two beds, OR they can pay a single supplement to have a room all to themselves.
Regardless of room type, all rooms have their own vanity and sink, and shared bathrooms with hot showers are just steps down the hall.
What will the group be like?
The people who show up for a trip like this tend to know what they're looking for...time outside, good company, and a real break from the noise. On past trips, people have walked away with lifelong friendships. I'll be there the whole time, and making sure everyone feels comfortable and included is just as important to me as the logistics.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes! The chef can work with most dietary needs with advance notice, including vegan (like me) and gluten-free! You just need to share that information with me on your guest booking form so I can notify the lodge and plan accordingly for other meals.
What should I expect weather-wise?
September is a lovely time to be in the Canadian Rockies. Daytime highs are typically in the 60s, crisp and perfect for hiking. It's also prime larch season, when the trees turn a brilliant gold across the alpine slopes. Evenings and mornings will be chilly. The lodge has heat in every room, so you'll be warm and comfortable when you're not out on the trails. I'll send everyone a full gear list, including appropriate layers, before the trip so you know exactly what to bring.
What is the cancellation policy?
All payments are non-refundable. Once you book, I'm financially committed to vendors on your behalf, so I'm not able to offer refunds if you change your mind. That's why I require travel insurance and recommend cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) coverage. If something comes up between now and September, your insurance has you covered.
If you have any other questions before booking, just hit reply. I read every single one, and I'm happy to help.
Discount Code
And now for the discount code. Since I forgot to include it in my last email, I'm extending the early bird discount through Thursday at midnight. Enter LETSHIKE when you book to save $100 off the listed price!
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Your go-to hiking, camping, and van life blog. Get real-world advice that motivates you to get outside, equips you with a robust outdoor skill set, and prepares you to face whatever challenges nature throws your way. Join 28,000 subscribers who get weekly outdoor travel tips and stories delivered to your inbox.
