THE SUPER TREKKER

The Esplanade Range is located northwest of Golden, B.C. in the Selkirk Mountains. Including a high, continuous plateau to some route finding, the traverse makes a terrific 7-day hiking week, with stays in four different backcountry lodges. It is a helicopter-supported trip, flying into the first lodge on day one, and back to the highway on day seven. Distances between the lodges are roughly 10 kilometres, requiring 5 hours to complete with options for bonus hikes and additional small summits.

Walking from south to north, we begin at Sunrise Lodge and spend two nights here exploring the terrain. On day three we hike over to Meadow Lodge, day four to Vista Lodge and days five – seven are spent at Sentry Lodge. The days spent at Sentry can include a spectacular alpine horseshoe route and the opportunity to summit Sentry Mountain for those who are interested.

Lodging: In each lodge, there are 6 rooms for 2 hikers each in the upstairs sleeping area. Staff includes a custodian and guide. Our cook will hike with us. She is an experienced backcountry chef, able to accommodate most diet restrictions.

Sentry Lodge is one of the most comfortable lodges in the backcountry. There is running hot and cold water, inside and outside toilets, wireless internet and a deluxe sauna with a changing room and shower. The other lodges along the traverse are more basic but they are comfortable, clean and well maintained.

Hikers can complete the traverse with just their regular day hiking pack. Extra clothes, beer and wine can be flown to each of the four lodges, allowing us to carry less and keep things simple. Bedding is provided.

Costs: The cost is $2480.00 per person based on 12 hikers. For groups of 10 hikers, the cost is $2830.00 per person. Prices include lodge rental, return helicopter flights, all catering and guiding fees, food costs and all applicable taxes. A deposit of $1000.00 per hiker is required to secure the reservation.

If you are looking to add a few hikers to your group, I will send out a notice with my newsletter this October and possibly fill some spots.