Canadian
Alpine
Experience
The Bugaboos mountain range in British Columbia, Canada has captivated mountain lovers since the days of Austrian mountain pioneer Conrad Kain. His namesake glacier stands as just one of the range’s many remarkable highlights. Hike above deep valleys, beneath the shadows of towering granite titans and encounter massive icefields, glacial lakes and panoramic cirques that will leave you awestruck. This Lodge-to-Lodge hiking adventure adds an extra dimension of excitement with short helicopter flights, to provide swift and thrilling access to this breathtaking alpine hiking terrain.
Each evening, you rejuvenate in classic alpine lodges. At the Bobbie Burns Lodge, you will experience the delights of mountain living at its finest, surrounded by ancient forests and beckoning peaks. From your decked-out home base at Bobbie Burns Lodge, you’ll have exclusive access to towering arêtes, dramatic moraines, ice-carved valleys and one-of-a-kind experiences.
Nestled among the legendary Bugaboo spires, the historic CMH Bugaboo Lodge blends historic charm with modern comfort and boasts some of North America’s most staggering alpine views. Chris Jones, our Operations Manager, rates the Bugaboos as the most spectacular and outstanding alpine destination in North America.
Hike among swirling glaciers and theatrical spires.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Bugaboos, hiking among swirling glaciers and theatrical spires, or raise your adrenaline on a thrilling via ferrata adventure. Our guides will tailor each day’s excursions and activities according to your preferences and skill level. Whichever way you choose to experience the awe-inspiring Bugaboos, the memories will stay with you forever.
We offer amazing experiences to ensure that your trip is unforgettable. Each day promises amazing new adventures exclusive to this Iconic Walk. Renowned for its monolithic granite spires emerging from vast icefields, this storied range has been hailed as one of the greatest alpine destinations in North America. A rugged landscape of both pilgrimage and preservation, it inspires a natural awe like few places on earth.
This lodge-to-lodge hiking trip from Bobbie Burns to Bugaboos offers an exciting dual adventure, and allows you to discover two unique lodges and landscapes. Designed in the European tradition, our Bobbie Burns to Bugaboos trip spans six days, providing the perfect blend of experiences for your Iconic adventure.
At each location you will experience equal parts excitement and relaxation. The first three days is spent at Bobbie Burns Lodge, a fantastic destination packed with fun activities. Steeped in comfort and nestled in a mountain paradise, it’s the perfect launching pad for your exploration of lesser-known trails. With legendary hikes, two via ferratas, breathtaking glacier vistas and a plethora of other attractions to discover, there is boundless entertainment and excitement for all.
On the fourth day, you’ll take a helicopter ride to Bugaboos Lodge and settle into this remote lodge snuggled under three immense mountain spires. Your luggage will be taken care of so that you can just relax. Over the next three days, you will have the chance to explore glacial lakes, vast icefields and hulking granite towers at your own pace, whether you prefer to hike, relax or climb. Classic, relaxed, family-style, adventurous or all of the above. Your guides will plan each day’s excursions according to your preferred activity types and ability.
Book your Bobbie Burns to Bugaboos lodge-to-lodge hiking trip today.
Canadian Alpine Experience at a glance
Location: Bugaboo Provincial Park, British Columbia, CanadaStyle: Private, fully guided
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Walking: Variable kms heli-hiking Bugaboo Provincial Park
Grade: Moderately challenging
Group size: maximum 11 guests
Accommodation: Private lodges
Price: From AUS $11425.00pp
Your trip itinerary
Day 1
Bobbie Burns Lodge
Arrival at Bobbie Burns Lodge
Your journey begins with a comfortable coach ride, departing from Calgary, Banff or other pick-up locations convenient for you. The drive will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Yoho National Park to the helipad at Parson, BC. After a comprehensive helicopter safety briefing you will transition to a thrilling helicopter transfer to Bobbie Burns Lodge.
On arrival at the lodge, you can take a moment to settle and become acquainted with your surrounding before heading out on your inaugural hike, exploring the natural grandeur of the mountains. Return to the lodge for a break, where you can indulge in après-adventure refreshments, unwind with a long soak in the hot tub, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage. Wrap up the day with a delectable gourmet dinner and raise a toast to the day’s adventures with an impeccably crafted cocktail from the bar.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2
Hiking or via ferrata
Heli-hiking
Start the day with an invigorating dynamic warm-up class and fuel up with a nourishing breakfast, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead. Prepare your packed lunch in anticipation for a thrilling day of exploration, whether you choose to adventure along the hiking trails or challenge yourself with the thrill of a via ferrata experience among the backdrop of the awe-inspiring mountains.
After an unforgettable day among the majestic mountain spires, head back to the lodge for a well-deserved respite. Indulge in après-adventure refreshments and swap stories of your incredible adventures in nature, soothe tired muscles with a soak in the hot tub, or indulge in a massage to alleviate any aches and pains.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 3
Hiking or via ferrata
Heli-hiking
Energise your day right from the start with a dynamic warm-up class, followed by a a hearty breakfast. After you have prepared your packed lunch, you can gear up for another day of adventures through your choice of hiking through the magnificent wilds of the mountain peaks or tackling the via ferrata.
After an exhilarating day among the peaks, it is eventually time to return to the lodge to unwind for the evening. Enjoy the refreshments in the tranquillity of the surroundings, soak tired limbs in the hot tub or pamper yourself with a massage. As the evening arrives, get together with your guides and lodge staff and engage in lively conversation for a convivial family-style dinner.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 4
Hiking toward Bugaboos Lodge
Heli-hiking to Bugaboos Lodge
Kickstart the morning with an energizing round of dynamic warm-up exercises and a nutritious breakfast. Ensure that your luggage is ready to be transferred to the Bugaboos lodge. Take a flight through the mountainscape followed by a picturesque hike towards the Bugaboo Lodge. A short heli-transfer will deliver you to your cosy accommodation at the Lodge, where you can enjoy après-hike refreshments, invigorate your muscles in the hot tub and relax on the deck, soaking up the stunning scenery and watch the sun before dinner.
Later, spend the evening relaxing and swapping stories and laughing over the day’s adventures as you savour a family-style dinner with your guides and lodge staff.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 5
Hiking in the mountains
Heli-hiking
Wake up for your penultimate dynamic warm up class and fuel up for the day with a wholesome breakfast. Pack your lunch, gear up, and prepare for your full day of excitement and adventure. The first hiking group will fly up into the mountains around 9am to explore the exhilarating trails and soak up the breathtaking views. Replenish your energy with a packed lunch and a perfect vista and then continue hiking.
On return to the lodge you can enjoy après-adventure refreshments, soak in the hot tub or a enjoy a massage. When you’re sufficiently relaxed, catch up with your fellow adventurers and swap stories of your mountain escapades over a delicious family-style dinner.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 6
Hiking in the mountains
Heli-hiking
With the bittersweet anticipation of your final day of adventure, wake up greeted by the familiar routine of a dynamic warm up class and a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day. With lunch packed and spirits high, prepare for your ultimate day of exploration and adventure. The first hiking group fly up into the mountains around 9am, when you can savour every moment of your final chosen route. Immerse yourself in the experience fully, drink in each spectacular moment and commit it to memory. Chose the perfect spot to pause for lunch and reflect on the week’s escapades.
As the sun descends, head back to the lodge to indulge in the familiar comforts of après-adventure relaxation, with a massage or soak in the hot tub and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers. Gather together with the group for a poignant family-style dinner for laughter and nostalgic tales of holiday highlights.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Day 7
Departure Day
Departure
After your final hearty breakfast, hop on the private coach transfer from helipad to Golden, Lake Louise, Banff, Canmore or direct to Calgary International Airport.
Meals: Breakfast
Trip Departures
Inclusions
Food & Beverages
On day 1 - we include a light packed breakfast on the bus and a full lunch upon arrival at the lodge.
Once you're at the lodge we provide three meals per day – a chef-prepared breakfast and dinner plus packed lunches, après-hiking snacks and non-premium non-alcoholic refreshments. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased at additional cost.
On day 7 - we also include a packed lunch on the bus ride home
Hiking Equipment
To lighten your travel load you can choose to use CMH hiking equipment, including boots, rain jackets, wind pants, day packs and hiking poles. Some of our guests opt to use their own equipment – the choice is yours.
Heli-assisted guided adventures
Professionally accredited guides will accompany you on your adventure, featuring heli flights up and down the mountains plus return flights to your lodge.
Ground Transportation
Transportation on the CMH coach from the Calgary International Airport (YYC), Banff, Lake Louise or Golden to the CMH Bobbie Burns helipad, and return to Golden, Lake Louise, Banff or the Calgary International Airport (YYC).
Accomodation
A double occupancy/twin share room in the hotel-style Bobbie Burns Lodge for the first three nights of your stay, then three nights at the Bugaboo Lodge.
FAQs
I'm an avid walker/hiker - will I be challenged?
Absolutely! Our guides share a passion for exploring everything the Columbia Mountains have to offer, and if you’re seeking a challenge, they’re ready to give you a good hiking workout.
Do I need to reserve the Via Ferrata ahead of time? What if I change my mind?
You do not need to reserve the Via Ferrata ahead of time; however, space may be limited, so to avoid disappointment, we recommend booking in advance.
If you change your mind at the lodge and decide you don’t want to do the Via Ferrata, there is no problem with cancelling.
What is not incuded in the price?
Airfares to and from your city of origin is not included in the price. Accomodation before or after the lodge based experience is not included. Alcoholic beverages and premium non-alcoholic beverages are not included and are available at additional cost. Massages are available at each lodge at additional cost. Selected retail goods and limited merchandise are available at the lodges.
I'm not a serious walker/hiker - will I be able to keep up with the group?
Whether it’s a hike, walk or amble, each heli-hiking day is tailored to all levels of fitness, experience and age. We split the group as necessary so everyone can stay within their comfort level. The only requirement is a thirst for adventure.
Do I need to have climbing experience to do the Via Ferrata?
No, climbing experience is not required to do a Via Ferrata.
What's the weather like?
Due to the high mountain environment, expect to experience various conditions. The weather can be sunny and warm, but be prepared for cooler tempertaures, rain, wind and possibly snow.
Mountain weather can change with very little warning. Temperatures range from highs of 10 to 35 degrees C to lows of -1 to 15 degrees C.
Is a single supplement available?
If you would like to have a room to your self, we offer single occupancy rooms at an additional upgrade cost.
What is the terrain like? Do I get dropped off at the top of a mountain and then hike down?
There’s a variety of terrain to explore - you might get dropped off:
- in an alpine meadow and hike up
- on a glacier to explore and hike
- on a mountain ridge and hike down
The fitness level and ability of your group will determine your hiking options.
Will we have any wildlife encounters?
In all of our trips, we strive to avoid any contact with wildlife. However, all of our guides are trained in safely dealing with wildlife encounters, should one occur.
Are all your guides certified?
Most CMH guides have made a lifelong career of their passion. They are dedicated professionals, trained in the European guiding tradition, which emphasizes both respect for the mountains and concern for the well-being of guests. Our guides are fully trained and regularly re-trained in first aid, wilderness rescue, emergency procedures and prevention. Many of our Heli-Hiking guides are fully certified by the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) - on average, a 10 year process. The rest are Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) certified, also with rigorous standards. Each one of our guides is an experienced and knowledgeable interpreter of our mountains’ flora, fauna, geology and natural history, ensuring that your Heli-Hiking experience is both safe and enriching.
We are excited to be be partnering with CMH Summer, a global leader in heli-access wilderness adventures and mountain hospitality. This is an experience like no other. With our experience partners we take you high above deep valleys in the shadows of towering granite titans, where massive icefields, glacial lakes and panoramic cirques will fill your days with wonder and amazement.
