The amount of land tenures given out in the region during last decade is staggering. Backcountry lodges are scattered on mountain sides all over South-Eastern BC. So…why are these operations popping up in the Nelson area? Jim Frapps and his partners at Baldface lodge scanned the North American Continent for a place to build their cat ski operation before settling on an area just outside of Nelson. “We chose this area because of its snow pack and snowfall history.”(Jim Frapps, Baldface Lodge) The West Kootenays has some of the most consistent, quality snow on the planet. If you ask any of the area's operators why they chose to develop here, they will all give you the same answer; snow, snow, snow.

As we enter a new century, time has become a valuable commodity in our fast paced lives. Gone are the days of endless freshies at our major resorts, and as resort towns continue to develop into mini urban centers we are traveling further into the wilderness to get our fix of fresh powder and relaxation. Cat skiing offers an intimate experience unlike any other. It’s an enjoyable way to spend a day shredding deep powder snow, and socializing with old and new friends alike. Lindsay Hoyt of Vahalla Powder Cats says; “Cat skiing will continue to grow. People are spending more time at work and they want to spend their quality time in good company, skiing deep powder.”
Cat skiing fits somewhere between the technical and rewarding experience of Backcountry touring, and the pricy and high adrenalin experience of Heli Skiing. The difference being that (Avalanche hazard pending,) you can cat ski in most weather conditions in comfort where you might struggle while touring or sit in the hanger waiting on weather while heli skiing.

With the expansion into the backcountry comes the issue of snow safety. Traveling into the mountains is no safe task, especially during the winter. As people flock into this terrain there are always the risks of triggering avalanches, falling in tree wells, and being injured far from civilization. It’s important to remember that you are still traveling into the wild of the mountains. Training on how to use avalanche beacons and search techniques are standard practices before you head out in the cat.

These operations include notable names that are well renowned throughout the snow safety industry. “Money is no object when it comes to safety in our organization.” (Patrick Maloney, Snowwater Heli/Cat Skiing) Snowater is fortunate to have Tim Ripple, (a Mount Everest veteran) as the leader of they’re experienced guide team. At Baldface lodge you can rest in comfort knowing that their elite guides are under the direction of John Buffery, another legendary name in the industry. “Cat skiing is a great opportunity to enjoy the backcountry in a safe atmosphere.” (Jim Frapps) While having good guides doesn’t completely eliminate the risks, they definitely use their knowledge to manage the risk and give employees and guests piece of mind while enjoying the experience. All of the Operations mentioned have great guides who will most likely be showing you the time of your life!

The West Kootenay’s cat operator’s can offer an experience to fit all budgets. From a day trip into the backcountry where you’re scarfing down KD out of your own thermos, to being force fed gourmet food in between runs and enjoying après ski beverages in the hot tub while thick Kootenay flakes gently fall and cling to your head. The key to all of these operations is the service they provide. The snow is a given, it’s almost always great if not epic. The staff that run these powder palaces are not unlike you and I, they just get paid to do what we pay for. Upon meeting them you will understand why. These are genuinely friendly and highly skilled people who are eager to share their passion for the ski bum lifestyle and to cater to your taste for adventure and tranquility.

You and a group of friends can enjoy great food and conversation between runs while still getting a descent amount of vertical in during your day. Make no mistake! You will tire yourself out in time to enjoy the comforts of your lodge at the bottom or your night in Nelson. Most operators that offer an on site lodge will only house from 12 to 24 people at a time. Having only twelve people and a couple of cats running each week leaves a lot of untracked powder for everyone all season long.

The key to setting up your cat skiing experience is to first determine the ability of you and your partners. Remember to be honest about your true ability level. If you’re thinking you’re an expert skier and you aren’t quite at the ability level required to ski the terrain of your chosen destination, you may find yourself sitting in the cat for most of your vacation. Ask a lot of questions when booking a trip; the operators are there to help you determine what is best for you. Next you can start sifting through the cat operators, determining which outfits cater to your ability level and your budget. If you are coming to Nelson for your backcountry adventure I recommend experiencing a few different operatorions. This way you can access varied terrain and shred more of the Kootenay area.

From the open bowls of Valhalla Powdercats South of Nelson to the steep and deep trees of White Grizzly up North, there is an experience to be had for everyone. You may find your niche on your first trip or you may just have a craving to venture to different operations each and every season. Cat skiing is a growing industry, and the West Kootenays is the place to get your fix. Come taste the deep pow, and don’t forget your snorkel!

If you would like more information regarding Snow Cat Adventures, contact any of the following operations.

www.whitegrizzly.com
www.snowwaterheliskiing.com
www.valhallapow.com
www.baldface.net
www.retallack.com
www.selkirkwilderness.com
www.highlandpowderskiing.com
www.retallack.com