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Callaghan Country Promises Snow-Filled Backcountry Scapes

For many, winter months means journeying into the backcountry.  And when you live in BC, backcountry is bountiful (read: why aren’t you here?).  One favoured escape for the exploration-minded is Callaghan Country – a snow-blessed backdrop boasting stunning views, old growth forests and endless heaps of the white stuff.  Situated in the Southern Coast Mountains near Whistler, and right next door to the new Whistler Olympic Park (venue for the Nordic and ski jumping events for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games), this scenic slice of wilderness promises plenty of opportunity to play in the snow.  The perfect base?  Callaghan Lodge, a mere 45 minute snowmobile ride (or a one-hour trek by snow coach or dog sled) from check-in at the base, is Whistler’s only full-service, remote access wilderness ski lodge tucked amid an outdoor playground.  Indeed, just mere steps from the lodge’s entrance, guests can glide the cross country trails, snowshoe through a forested expanse or simply take in the scene amid a calm, peaceful quiet.  And thanks to the lodge’s array of winter excursions fashioned for guests, adventures will prove as boundless as the vistas.  For a short and savoury taste of what Callaghan has to offer, settle in for Backcountry by Candlelight which includes transport to the lodge (via snowmobile, snow coach, or dog sled) where guests will enjoy a fabulous four-course feast prepared by Chef Evan Boland.  For adventure during daylight hours, the Classic Canadian package offers transport to the lodge, a guided one-hour snowshoe tour or cross country ski and a tasty three-course lunch by the warmth of the fire.  The Ultimate Adventure Snow Play Day revs it up by adding to the inclusions from the Classic with an exhilarating one-hour dog sled excursion with furry friends from the FirstMate Racing Team.  For an overnight, the lodge’s Cabin Party promises a day out-of-doors with tobogganing, snowshoeing and even cross country skiing by moonlight, coupled with a one night stay.  And in a region where snow is seldom scarce, and only two participants are required per tour, these adventures are bound to hit the trail until the end of April.  At day’s end, snuggle in amid the warmth of the lodge.  Curl up by the fire, hot cocoa in hand, and plan for another day.  In the snow.  www.callaghancountry.com