British Columbia

Bella Coola is located half way up the coast of British Columbia amidst the spectacular coast mountain range. It is set between the Fjordland Nature Reserve and Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. This little known valley hosts some of the most spectacular British Columbia hiking. Unlike Banff, Jasper or other locations in the Canadian Rockies, the hiking destinations in and around are totally wild. During your stay you will probably not see another hiker.

The diverse terrain offers individuals an abundance of British Columbia trails to experience. There are challenging peaks and passes to ascend as well as moderate trails along ridgelines for those individuals who enjoy British Columbia hiking at a more casual pace. In either case, our guide will take time to help you learn about the local flora and fauna.

Bella Coola is also rich with history and the tribal roots of the Nuxhalk nation continue to offer visitors a cultural experience. Dating back to 1793 when Alexander Mackenzie, the first westerner, explored the valley to stories rich with mythology of the native tribes adds to the specialness of this destination. We will hike through several old growth cedar stands that still bear signs of the day when the Nuxhalk used rock wedges to split planks from these impressive trees.

The climate in the spring and summer is ideal for hiking throughout the high mountains or exploring the valley floor trails. The valley is home to a variety of wildlife. Grizzly bears, moose, bald eagles and mountain goats are spotted daily. The Bella Coola Valley is truly some of the Northwest's most spectacular scenery.

Programs

British Columbia Hiking
A typical day will begin with a hearty breakfast prepared by our in-house chef. One might enjoy fresh fruit with homemade granola or eggs benedict with hollandaise sauce! After breakfast and a lecture on what we will be exploring on our adventure, we head out to hike either a full or ½ day. Most of the high mountain trails will be accessed via helicopter. This allows us to fly above spectacular mountains, glaciers, rivers and lakes to the alpine areas where we will do most of our hiking. For most just the helicopter ride alone is enough.

While hiking British Columbia, one might spot mountain goats, bear dens, or soaring eagles. We will hike on routes that match the group's pace and interests. These might include rocky ridge trails to an easy hike through a flower filled meadow.

A local guide will accompany the group-max of six people-The guides are there to support, educate and make your British Columbia hiking adventure safe, informative and fun! Gourmet lunches are packed each day to enjoy on the trail while enjoying the breathtaking views! After completing our hike we will return to the local B and B for a soak in the tub, a glass of wine, and a gourmet dinner prepared by your host!

Lodging/BC
Combining the solitude of the valley with the charm of a local B and B, we offer a lodging experience that is unmatched. Each guest experiences the local flavor of the proprietor while also having the privacy of your own living quarters for the duration of the visit. The location of the B and B is in the heart of the valley allowing easy access to valley trails and the airport for our helicopter assisted hiking days!

Fly Fishing/Cooking Classes
We also offer British Columbia fly fishing and gourmet cooking classes! Some of the most spectacular fishing is accessible in the Bella Coola valley-The Dean, The Bella Coola and the Atnarko are just a few rivers available for fishing. Local guides are reserved to help you explore these magical rivers and of course catch fish!

Cooking classes facilitated by Terry Corbould of Wilderness Elegance is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon learning the basics of French and Italian cooking! Terry has attended several European cooking schools, including La Cuisine de Marie-Blanche in Paris, Chianti in Tuscany and Castelvechhi near Radd, and Fulvia Sesani's school in Venice.. All participants learn hands on cooking skills while enjoying a delicious meal at the end of the class!! Hike in the morning and learn how to prepare a gourmet meal in the afternoon-what a great way to spend the day!