Deep Pow Blog

World Class Backcountry Resort Wins Business of the Year Award

admin — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 04:16:25 +0000

Fernie, BC Canada October 30, 2008 – Island Lake Lodge is an icon in Fernie B.C. Over the last 20 years Island Lake Lodge has been recognized as one of the world’s best places to ski and snowboard. Every year the Fernie Chamber of Commerce honors outstanding local businesses and individuals with awards and this year awarded Island Lake Lodge Fernie Business of the Year.

“The Chamber of Commerce organizes the annual Community and Business Awards on behalf of the community. In the past only one award nominee in each category was announced. We decided to introduce the Top 3 Nominees in each category to shine a spotlight on, and recognize more of the wonderful individuals, volunteers and businesses who have contributed so much to their community.” says Lynn Flokstra, Manager Fernie Chamber of Commerce.

The Award Criteria for them Fernie Business of the Year, sponsored by GPI Chartered Accountants is that it is open to any Business or Industry located in the City of Fernie and surrounding area that has demonstrated good corporate citizenship, good business standards and ethics, and contributes in a meaningful way to the community.

“It was an honor to be nominated and then a thrill to be awarded with the Fernie Business of the Year award” says Steve Kuijt, General Manager of Island Lake Lodge. “We have always been supporters of local and community charities and events and are proven environmental leaders in our region.” Kuijt goes onto explain.

About Island Lake Lodge- Island Lake Lodge Hiking and Mountain spa sits above a stunning mountain lake on 7000 acres of pristine wilderness. In the winter it operates as a catskiing operation, servicing 36 guests in three snow cats. In the summer it is as a luxurious backcountry lodge, with an extensive hiking trail system, a full service mountain spa and acclaimed food and wine. Located in Fernie B.C. it is an easy 1 hour drive from the new Canadian Rockies International Airport in Cranbrook, B.C. a 2.5-hour drive from the airport in Kalispell, Montana and a 3 hour drive from Calgary International Airport in Alberta.

For press inquires or media visits please contact Christa Moffat
christa@islandlakeresorts.com 1-888-422-8754 x 3002
Journalists on assignment are welcome to visit!

Island Lake Resort Group
602a, 2nd Ave Fernie BC Canada V0B 1MO
www.islandlakeresorts.com
Phone– 250-423-3700
Fax – 250-423-4055
Info@islandlakeresorts.com

Mica Heliskiing Announces New Private 407 Program

admin — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 04:46:31 +0000

Revelstoke, BC Canada Oct 15, 2008 – Mica Heliskiing announced today a new Private heliskiing program utilizing the Bell 407 helicopter. “After a very successful first season of our new Private Program, we’ve made the ultimate ski experience even better! The Bell 407 has one more seat than the A-Star, which allows room for a second guide, giving our private groups the ability to safely explore the far reaches of our terrain. This helicopter has incredible power and excellent fuel capacity which means more time skiing!” says Paul Norrie Mica Heli Guides President.

Private tours include:
–Private Bell 407 Helicopter
–Unlimited Vertical
–2 hours/day heli time
–Greater discretion over your ski program
–Single occupancy hotel accommodation pre/post heli trip (Kelowna or Revelstoke)
–Airport shuttle service in Kelowna
–Ground transport from Kelowna to Revelstoke
–Heli transfer from Revelstoke to/from Mica Lodge
–Optional Heli transfer from Calgary or Kelowna
–Single occupancy rooming in Mica Chalet (large room, King bed, fireplace)
–Gourmet meals
–Use of our K2 powder skis and safety equipment (ABS airbag, digital transceiver, shovel & probe).
–Two guides with groups of 1-4 skiers.

Although Mica Heli has quickly become known for consistent weather and quality snow, on those rare days when the snow is deep, but flying isn’t a safe option; we have an exciting new alternative! As I write this we are putting the finishing touches on a new trail for our Pisten Bully Snow Cat. This will allow us to access the tree skiing directly above the lodge while we wait for the flying conditions to improve.

Mica Heliskiing has been a buzz all summer with many projects. Most importantly we’ve opened more new ski terrain! In total we’ve cut nine new helicopter landings in Molson, Harvey, Dawson and the Wood Arm drainages. These new landings will add a wide variety of new ski terrain, including some beautiful, steep, north facing tree runs in Harvey! “I’m definitely looking forward to the first turns ever on the “Drive Thru”, only a two minute flight from the lodge!” says Darryn Shewchuk - Mica Heli Guides Director of Sales and Marketing.
Returning guests will be sure to notice the renovations made to Mica Lodge including a full kitchen renovation (complete with new appliances and a wine cooler) fresh paint, new furniture and creature comforts. The next thing you’ll notice is the brand new beds and linens – if the skiing wasn’t so amazing you might not want to get out of bed!

Mica Heli Skiing near Revelstoke, B.C. is one of three operations in The Island Lake Resort Group; the others being Powder Cowboy Catskiing and Island Lake Lodge Cat skiing near Fernie B.C., For more information contact Darryn Shewchuk at 1-877-837-6191 x2002.

Mica Heliskiing  PO Box 1250,
207 Mackenzie Ave
Revelstoke BC Canada V0E 2SO
www.micaheli.com
Phone– 250-837-6191
Fax – 250-837-6199

Info@micaheli.com
Contact: Darryn Shewchuk
Office: 250-837-6191 x2002
Mobile: 250-814-1950

Mica Heli news update

admin — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 05:03:48 +0000

There is plenty of good news to report at Mica Heli! Fall has recently arrived, bringing fresh snow on the mountain tops and beautiful fall colors surrounding the lodge. With overnight temperatures now consistently below freezing, another season of powder skiing is in the air!

Mica has been a buzz all summer with many projects. Most importantly we’ve opened more new ski terrain! In total we’ve cut nine new helicopter landings in Molson, Harvey, Dawson and the Wood Arm drainages. These new landings will add a wide variety of new ski terrain, including some beautiful, steep, north facing tree runs in Harvey!

I’m definitely looking forward to the first turns ever on the “Drive Thru”, only a two minute flight from the lodge!

After a very successful first season of our new Private Program, we’ve made the ultimate ski experience even better! New for the 2009 season, the Mica Heli Private Program will be flying with the Bell 407 helicopter. The Bell 407 has one more seat than the A-Star, which allows room for a second guide, giving our private groups the ability to safely explore the far reaches of our terrain. This helicopter has incredible power and excellent fuel capacity which means more time skiing!

Returning guests will be sure to notice the renovations made to Mica Lodge including a full kitchen reno (complete with a sassy wall colour, new appliances and a wine cooler) fresh paint, new furniture and creature comforts. The next thing you’ll notice is the brand new beds and linens – if the skiing wasn’t so amazing you might not want to get out of bed! With a new roof and exterior stain Mica Lodge has never looked better!

Best of all your favorite team is back this year with Matt and Trevor flying, Shane, Rob, Ian, Rich, Terry, Eric and me guiding, and three new faces to Mica, but veterans to heliski guiding - Michael Cater, Cliff Umpleby and Mark Bender. Nicole and Julie are back cooking up a storm in their new kitchen and Barbara, Val, Jonathan, Sam, Jen and Cathy are also back to make sure everyone has the perfect trip!

This winter the program at Mica Heliskiing is going to be the best ever! We have only a few seats left in Jan, Feb and March so give Val a call at 1.877.837.6191 to book your spot today. We all look forward to seeing you and skiing with you soon!

Best Regards,
Paul Norrie
President

Darryn Shewchuk
Director, Sales & Marketing
www.micaheli.com | www.powdercowboy.com | www.islandlakecatskiing.com
1.888.CATHELI (228-4354) x2002
Mobile 250.814.1950

Experience the POWDER of the Canadian Rockies www.DeepPow.com

Fall Ski Shows

admin — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 22:17:11 +0000

It’s that time of year again! The snow is on the mountains and the ski shows have started. Island Lake Catskiing, Powder Cowboy Catskiing and Mica Heliskiing will have a booth at some of the bigger shows this year. Drop by and get a free DVD, posters and cool stickers!

Vancouver Oct 4 & 5
Toronto Oct 17-19
London England Oct 22-26
Calgary Nov 7-9
Denver Nov 7-9
Portland Nov 14-16

Hope to see you there!

MicaHeli Heliskiing - BC Canada

admin — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:50:31 +0000

World Class Catskiing Resort offers March Seats Sales

admin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:58:22 +0000

Fernie, BC Canada September 10, 2008 – Island Lake Lodge has announced a March Seat Sale. For a limited time you can book a tour for after March 15th at the world renowned backcountry Cat skiing resort and receive 15% off the regular rates.

“March 2007 and 2008 were epic snow months in the Canadian Rockies and we are enticing people to come back or to try cat skiing for the first time. Typically March can be our biggest snow month of the whole season” explains Steve Kuijt, Operations Manager/ guide at Island Lake Lodge and long time resident of Fernie BC. “Last March we experienced some of our most epic days of the whole year on the mountain and we have the pictures to prove it.” Kuijt goes onto explain. Last March saw 24 out of 30 days with fresh snow in the skiing terrain. Also in March Island Lake Lodge Hiking and Mountain spa hosted the 1st annual Photo Shoot Out - a photography contest where six photographers hand picked three athletes to shoot over the 3 days. A panel of judges decided on the best photographs of the day, in the categories of best action, best overall athlete of the day and best scenic/abstract. Over $10,000 worth of prizing was awarded throughout the event. The Photo Shoot Out was a huge success mainly due to the amazing snow the mountains received prior to and during the event.

Cat skiing tours include the use of powder skis or snowboards, deluxe lodge accommodation, stretch class, gourmet food and all the powder skiing one can manage in a day! Island Lake Lodge has a world class full service spa, a 3,000 bottle wine library and an eclectic wine list, and outdoor hot tubs. All Catskiing Tours are guided by ACMG certified guides.
Island Lake Catskiing near Fernie, B.C. is one of three operations in The Island Lake Resort Group; the others being Powder Cowboy Cat skiing near Fernie B.C., and Mica Heli Heli skiing near Revelstoke B.C. Island Lake Lodge, Powder Cowboy Catskiing and Mica Heliskiing are all members of HeliCat Canada and the Canadian Avalanche Association.

Please visit our website www.islandlakecatskiing.com for other specialty Catskiing tours or call 1-888-422-8754.
For press inquires or media visits please contact Christa Moffat
christa@islandlakeresorts.com 1.888.422.8754 x 3002
Journalists on assignment are welcome to visit!

Island Lake Resort Group
602a, 2nd Ave Fernie BC Canada V0B 1MO
www.islandlakeresorts.com
Phone– 250-423-3700
Fax – 250-423-4055
Info@islandlakeresorts.com

Mica Heli Deep Powder in the Canadian Rockies

admin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:48:17 +0000

Island Lake Lodge Announces Receipt of Environmental Award

admin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:44:14 +0000

Fernie, B.C. March 3, 2008-The Island Lake Lodge is proud to announce its nomination as the winner of the 2007 Hall of Fame Award of Excellence in the Energy and Environment category from the Hotel Association of Canada. This award recognizes Island Lake Lodge’s commitment to preserving the environment and efforts to minimize energy use in its daily operations. Key among these initiatives is the installation and operation of 2 micro-hydro stations to generate 100% of the Lodge’s electrical needs.
“We are very proud of our efforts in creating a sustainable and eco-friendly operation. The recognition of being a leader in the hospitality industry is appreciated and we will continue to do our utmost to improve our environmental programs and initiatives,” says Kyle Hamilton, Building Services Manager, who was integral in reviewing the company’s environmental practices.

For additional information on Island Lake Lodge and its environmental initiatives contact Christa Moffat or visit www.islandlakeresorts.com
About Island Lake Resort Group- ILRG operates Mica Heli Skiing near Revelstoke, B.C. Powder Cowboy Cat skiing and Island Lake Lodge near Fernie B.C. Island Lake Lodge Hiking and mountain spa sits above a stunning mountain lake on 7000 acres of pristine wilderness. In the winter it operates as a cat skiing operation, servicing 36 guests in three snow cats. In the summer it is as a luxurious backcountry lodge, offering hiking, spa and fine dining. Located 20 minutes from Fernie B.C. it is an easy 2.5-hour drive from the airport in Kalispell, Montana or 3 hour drive from Calgary International Airport in Alberta.

About the Hotel Association of Canada Hall of Fame Awards program- The Hotel Association of Canada’s (HAC) Hall of Fame Awards are awarded annually in three categories. The Energy and Environment Award recognizes lodging properties that have developed a culture towards integrating environmental management practices that improve everyday operations and the bottom line, while maintaining quality service and meeting guest expectations.

CONTACT:
Christa Moffat
Island Lake Resort Group
(250) 423-3700 ext. 3002
(250) 423-4055
Email Address: christa@islandlakeresorts.com
www.islandlakeresorts.com

For the best Skiing, Boarding and Touring on the planet it’s time to hit the Backcountry!

admin — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:14:20 +0000

The Island Lake Resort Group (ILRG) consists of three back country ski operations, Island Lake Catskiing, Powder Cowboy Cat skiing and Mica Heli Guides Heli skiing with summer programs running at Island Lake Lodge. The ILRG is the world’s largest cat ski operation and the second largest backcountry operator with up to 76 guests in the backcountry every day over the winter season Dec through April.

Island Lake Catskiing is the premier high end cat ski destination in the world. Operating 3 cats, 36 guests ski 7000 acres of privately owned land in the Lizard range of the Rocky Mountains near Fernie BC Canada. Island Lake Lodge has been in operation for nearly 20 years making it one of the most established Cat operations in Canada. Legendary dry powder, luxury mountain lodging and fine dining make Island Lake the premium cat-ski destination on the planet.
Island Lake Lodge Mountain and hiking spa is open during the summer months for spectacular hiking, fine dining with a luxurious 3000 square foot spa featuring six treatment rooms, a wellness room with a deep Japanese soaking tub, retail boutique, change rooms and relaxation rooms.
Island Lake Lodge is a spectacular mountain retreat for weddings or for couples and business people looking for the ultimate place to refresh, recharge and rejuvenate!

Powder Cowboy Cat skiing is a unique Western themed cat ski experience famous for its friendly staff and western style hospitality. For over 8 years Powder Cowboy has been operating out of the Bull River Ranch - a “Dude Ranch” in the summer. Powder Cowboy runs 2 cats and 24 guests in a 6000 acre tenure on the West side of the Lizard Range behind Island Lake Lodge near Fernie BC Canada. Competitively priced with a beautiful new lodge, outdoor fireplace, cozy individual cabins for guests, massage and hot tubs for relaxing after an incredible day in the deep dry powder. Powder Cowboy is world renowned for its naturally gladded tree skiing and big bowls. The snow quality and terrain makes Powder Cowboy a truly unique and exhilarating cat ski experience.

Mica Heli Guides is the most progressive small group heli skiing and heli-assisted touring experience in the world. Mica heliskiing uses the A-Star helicopter for the semi-private ski program (3 groups of 4 guests each with one guide) and a Bell 407 for the private program (4 guests with 2 guides). Mica Heli Guides also offer heli-assisted touring packages, a perfect combination of traditional ski touring equipment and an A-Star Helicopter. Mica Heli Guides operates on a quarter million acre tenure on the North Western slope of the Rocky Mountains near Revelstoke BC Canada. Mica Lodge and Chalet are backcountry heli access only with a capacity for 12-16 guests seeking to experience individually tailored heliskiing in intermediate to advanced terrain. Mica Heliskiing has the reputation of being the ultimate ski trip of a lifetime.

Island Lake Catskiing, Powder Cowboy Catskiing and Mica Heliskiing are all members of HeliCat Canada and the Canadian Avalanche Association.
Please visit our website www.DeepPow.com or call 1-888-228-4354.

The Island Lake Resort Group
602a, 2nd Ave Fernie BC Canada V0B 1MO
www.islandlakeresorts.com
Phone– 250-423-3700
Fax – 250-423-4055
Info@islandlakeresorts.com
Contact: Darryn Shewchuk booth #818
mobile: 1-250-814-1950
Journalists on assignment are welcome to visit!

World Class Cat skiing Resorts offer Families an opportunity to ski the back country together

admin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:57:58 +0000

Fernie, BC Canada August 5, 2008 – As more families are looking to experience outdoor adventures together, Island Lake Lodge and Powder Cowboy Cat skiing are filling that demand by offering 7 Family Ski Tours this winter.

“Cat skiing at Island Lake or Powder Cowboy is the perfect adventure holiday for families who love to ski” explains Corrie Wright, long time guide at Island Lake Lodge and father of two. “With the great camaraderie and friendly interaction you get in a snowcat, paired with attentive guides and amazing powder skiing Family-Ski Tours offer for an incredible and memorable experience for the whole family.”
Tours just for families were developed by the Island Lake Resort Group in order to accommodate a growing demand by their long term guests to bring their children along and experience the legendary powder of the Canadian Rockies. . “So many of our clients are repeat customers and as they get older, so do their children. We started to get so many requests to have them bring their children that we decided to dedicate whole tours to this kind of business” said Steve Kuijt, operations manager and guide at Island Lake Lodge.
Family-Ski tours include the use of powder skis or snowboards, deluxe lodge accommodation, stretch class, gourmet food and all the powder skiing one can manage in a day! Both operations also offer spa treatments, an eclectic wine list, and outdoor hot tubs. Family Ski Tours are run by ACMG certified guides.
Please visit our website www.islandlakeresorts.com for Girl-Ski and other specialty Cat skiing tours or call 1-888-422-8754.

Island Lake Catskiing near Fernie, B.C. is one of three operations in The Island Lake Resort Group; the others being Powder Cowboy Cat skiing near Fernie B.C., and Mica Heli skiing near Revelstoke B.C. Island Lake Lodge Mountain and Hiking Spa , Powder Cowboy Cat skiing and Mica Heli skiing are all members of HeliCat Canada and the Canadian Avalanche Association.

For press inquires or media visits please contact Christa Moffat
christa@islandlakeresorts.com 1.888.422.8754 x 3002
Journalists on assignment are welcome to visit!

Island Lake Resort Group
602a, 2nd Ave Fernie BC Canada V0B 1MO
www.islandlakeresorts.com
Contact: Christa Moffat
Phone– 250-423-3700
Fax – 250-423-4055
Info@islandlakeresorts.com