Snowshoe Tours at Crystal Mountain
As we have been starting to get inquiries about snowshoe tours, I thought I would send out an email letting you know about the tours and dates we have planned so far. Groups are welcome to book private tours as well. I have also attached our all-season brochure in case you are interested in seeing some of the school programs we offer as well. And don’t forget about our Annual White Rabbit Snowshoe Race on January 29th where lots of great prizes are available.
Following is a list of tours and dates:
Discover Snowshoeing Tour – Every Saturday once Crystal Mountain opens (Except January 29th due to the White Rabbit Snowshoe Race)
This is a fun way to find out what you need to know about snowshoeing technique, choosing a snowshoe type and size that’s right for you, snowshoe safety and much more. We will enjoy a chairlift ride to the top of Crystal Mountain and snowshoe our way back to the resort as we hone our snowshoeing skills along a beautiful trail.
10 a.m. – 12 p.m., $26 + HST per person
Starlight Snowshoe Hike and Fondue Tour – December 18, December 31, January 15, February 12, February 19, March 12
This magical evening hike features the cultural and natural history of the Crystal Mountain area and includes a delicious chocolate fondue with hot apple cider around a blazing fire along the trail.
6-8 p.m., $45 + HST per person
Welcome Winter Torchlight Snowshoe Tour – December 21
Come and join us as we say “Welcome” to winter on a 19th century torchlight snowshoe hike. Hike by torchlight through the woods and meadows above Crystal Mountain and enjoy a a snack and hot drink around a campfire along the trail during this unique hike.
6-8:30 p.m., $33 + HST per person
Winter Woods Snowshoe Hike – December 28
Enter the marshmallow world of lynx and snowshoe hare to look at the many natural wonders of the subalpine forest above Crystal Mountain Resort. This hike focuses on the plants and animals of this region and their survival tactics. A snack and hot beverage is provided along the trail.
1-4 p.m., $36 + HST per person
Ladies’ Day Snowshoe Tour and Lunch – Every Thursday starting January 6th
Come and bring your friends or group and enjoy a time of fun, beauty and exercise. Learn a little bit along the way about the Okanagan, its natural history, your friends and yourself. After the hike, enjoy a lunch with the group at the Cherry Pit on the Mountain Restaurant.
10 a.m. – 1 p.m., $39 + HST per person
Farewell to Winter Torchlight Snowshoe Tour – March 19
Come and join us as we say “Farewell” to winter on a 19th century torchlight snowshoe hike. Hike by torchlight through the woods and meadows above Crystal Mountain and enjoy a a snack and hot drink around a campfire along the trail during this unique hike.
6-8:30 p.m., $33 + HST per person
White Rabbit Snowshoe Race – January 29th
Come and join us for our 6th annual White Rabbit Snowshoe Race. Both 5 km and 10 km races are available for men, women and children with some great prizes available.
For bookings, contact Jordie or Laurie Bowen at (250) 768-4961 or (866) 695-2972 or selahoutdoors@hotmail.com.
Reservations required for all tours. Minimum numbers apply for tours to run. Discounts available for children and seniors.
We tried the Starlight Snowshoe Hike and Fondue Tour on Jan. 15th. It was a really fun trip and snowshoeing at night in falling snow was sweet. The hike is pretty exposed sometimes, and the wind would have been really cold if we hadn’t dressed properly. There were 36 people in the group, which was more than to 20 we were told, and that was too many. It was hard for us all to crowd around while Jordie explained things. The explaining was a very cool touch though, and so were the characters we met along the trail. Even got to eat moose poo (it was chocolate). Also, with so many people, the fire stop was really crowded and not as fun as it could have been with less people. Some people were cold and in a hurry to keep moving because the fire was too small to share well or keep us all warm.
Overall, a sweet trip, but the $50 seemed a little much, and 36 people is too many. Still, check it out if you get a chance, but keep expectations extra realistic to avoid minor disappointment.