Connecting with the natural world in this way will be an enlightening and refreshing experience that will also help you relax in your new remote surroundings as we partake in some First Nations ceremonies at the end of the week. The early ancestors of the Kootenay River Valley and surrounding areas become our spiritual guides this week as we have fun digging down into the essence of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and beyond.
Your Itinerary:
Day 1: Your arrival day to Cross River Wilderness Center (CWC). A hot evening meal will be served over some friendly introductions, followed by some final preparations and orientation before settling in to a relaxing night at the cabins.
Day 2: Bright and early, we gather for breakfast and then set out for the historic White Man Pass. Our ascent takes us up through dense forest, over river beds, and through open marshlands to the top of the pass, where we camp for the first night. Wildlife, including bear, elk, and deer often frequent the pass, and the views looking out over the Cross River, White Man Creek, and the nearby lakes are alone worth the trip.
Day 3: Today we head out over Albert Pass, cross through the meadows below White Man Mountain, and then up above the tree line to some adjacent plateaus and alpine lakes, where we will camp the second night. The wildflowers of the meadows will colorfully highlight your way to the second camp, and its comfortable setting amidst the marmots and surrounding peaks. Throughout the day, there may also be opportunities for various track and plant identifying and possibly other nature awareness activities based on native teachings.
Day 4: After a morning stroll around the surrounding ridges, we will return to CWC for a delicious home-cooked meal, a relaxing soak in our outdoor, wood-fired, hot tub, and a relaxing evening at the cabins.
Day 5: We rise for breakfast then head out today on a river rafting trip down the Kootenay River. Depending on time of year, the waters may range from grade 1 to 3 with some sections of class 4 rapids to keep you smiling. The surrounding cliffs, characteristic waterfalls, and good stories along the way also make this trip a fun and unique way to enjoy the mountains.
Day 6: The rest of the week is an empowering and unique opportunity to be in nature with a native elder. We will participate in various nature walks, nature awareness activities, and native ceremonies, such as a traditional purification/healing lodge and various thanksgiving and rising sun ceremonies. All will be an adventure in their own right that can open up our hearts and minds to new perspectives on our own lives.
Day 7: There will be no mystical/magical event, just an empowering opportunity to engage with tradition and learn about another culture and way of life in thanks and openness. It may even leave you with a renewed sense of possibility, respect, and connection with the landscape that could last a lifetime.
Day 8: After one last breakfast together, we part ways until next time.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- Certified guides
- Permits
- Meals
- Activity costs
- Native elder and spiritual teachings donation
- Group gear
- Five nights cabin accommodation based on double occupancy
- Transportation while at CWC.
Also see tour packages in:
Canada
British Columbia
Alberta
Nature & Wildlife
Wildlife Viewing
Canoeing/Kayaking/Rafting
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