Fernie, British Columbia, Canada, May 10, 2010 – As the snowpack melts away and the sun’s warm rays replace the dry powdery snow that falls over this area throughout the winter months, the landscape surrounding Fernie British Columbia is utterly transformed into a breathtaking mountain paradise. The scenic beauty of the Canadian Rockies is best appreciated during this time of the year, as the cold subsides and the countryside that lies covered for most of the year is truly revealed.

While most visitors flock to Fernie in the winter months, in search of the adrenaline pumping excitement that the area’s excellent ski conditions offer both amateur enthusiasts and professional athletes alike, far fewer are fortunate enough to have a chance to explore the delicate beauty of this majestic location in the off season. It almost seems as if the plethora of attractions that the area has to offer are well kept secrets; but perhaps this is better in some ways, as the less crowded summer months provide a perfect opportunity for those lucky enough to come to Fernie during this time of year to escape from the hustle and bustle of there every day lives and commune with nature.

As the ice and snow slowly disappear, they reveal the fertile landscape below and life once again springs from the soil. The smell of pine and cedar fills the air and the lively sounds of summer are all around. Birds chirp in the trees and the earth comes alive as many species of native wildlife emerge from their winter haunts in search of nourishment.

A variety of activities become possible as the cold weather gives way and the countryside becomes fully accessible. Summer pastimes such as horseback riding and hiking once again capture the fancy of visitors. Nevertheless, many come here simply to relax, enjoy the scenery and languish in the creature comforts offered by mountain lodges like Powder Cowboy, Fernie’s premier western themed catskiing resort and guest ranch.

This attractive mountain hideaway is part of the Island lake resort group, which also owns and operates the well known Island Lake Lodge as well as Mica Heli Ski Guides, outside of Revelstoke B.C. Unlike its sister resorts, Powder Cowboy is known for its extremely accessible rates and its rustic western feel. The facilities consist of 10 log cabins, known collectively as the Bull River Guest Ranch. 8 of these cabins are designed to accommodate guests while the Ranch’s remaining two structures house the Big Horn Saloon, as well as the Hot Tub and Sauna lodge, where guests can enjoy a relaxing soak or sit in the steam room after a long hike.

Bull River is located below the snow line. Nevertheless, it is within close proximity of some the region’s finest ski terrain, which is accessible by means of snowcat skiing. These large, rugged vehicles are used to transport guests to the slopes during the winter months. During the summer, on the other hand, the Powder Cowboy facilities double as a dude ranch, which offers visitors a chance to go back in time and be transported to a not so distant era in which cowboys roamed the slopes of the Rockies, in constant search of greener grazing grounds.

Powder Cowboy’s comfortable facilities, laid back atmosphere, friendly local staff and splendid natural surroundings make it a perfect travel destination year round. While the winter months offer a chance to enjoy some great skiing, summer is also a great time of year to take advantage the resort’s comfortable accommodations.

ABOUT:

Powder Cowboy Catskiing near Fernie B.C. boasts 6000 acres of big bowls, steep chutes and is famous for world class gladed tree skiing. The white gold on the Western Rockies is legendary for quality and quantity, with over 10 meters (over 30 feet!) of dry champagne powder falling every season.

The road to Powder Cowboy is filled with more deer than I’ve seen in one place. I lost count at about one hundred.  It also passes over some really amazing river gorges and climbs you high up into a valley below some amazing peaks.

Arriving at the Bull River ranch you turn onto the property to a scene right out of a country western movie.  Small cabins with smoking chimneys, dogs running all over the place, goats and sheep making their usual sounds and horses hanging there heads over wooden fences. You wouldn’t think you were arriving at this location to ride deep southern BC powder but the misty mountain behind the ranch alluded to some kind of mountain adventure close by.

Checking into our private cabin on-site was easy and we loaded the front deck with about five different powder-specific snowboards, with claims that we would be riding a different deck every day of the trip. Just missing some chewing tobacco and a cowboy hat, I could have perched myself on the front porch and would have been the stereotypical “Powder Cowboy” with all my snowboards and the horses out front.

Early next morning we loaded into vans and made our way to the staging area where the Cat was waiting to take us up into the alpine behind the Bull River Ranch. The guides had country music playing on the van stereo. Not too sure if that’s what they do all they time, but it was fitting as we passed more countryside meadows and climbed into the misty morning mountains.

The usual beacon clinic took up the first forty minutes of the morning and had our whole group handling the avalanche equipment. Over the years I’ve heard these beacon/avalanche clinics more than a few times. I find it interesting how each guide explains them so differently and always find it amusing when they use out of context situations to help people understand. Here it was “landing a plane”.

Weather seemed to be a mixed bag of sun and cloud for the first day and we would be hunting for snow on northerly aspects. The one thing you just have to get out of your head is all that green grass down on the ranch and not a snowflake in sight. You almost passed into a different world as the Cat climbed high into the alpine and we were instantly back in winter weather on top of the mountain ridge lines. catskiing

Sitting at the top of the ridgeline you get a feeling of being in an amphitheatre with the surrounding mountains enclosing the entire terrain tenure of Powder Cowboy. Amazing gladed tree runs are what the place is known for. Nine different zones to ride in with a combined six-thousand acres means that this place does not run out of fresh terrain to ride.  We rode on the same ridge for most of the day and then hit up the Cabin Side area for the run down to the vans.  Packs of cold beer were ready for the ride back to the ranch and I could feel that amazing “powder tired” sensation about to kick in.

Arriving back to the ranch drops of rain became more and more steady and the view of the mountains became engulfed in clouds. Dinner is held in the main lodge and is nothing short of amazing after a day in the snow. The general conversation among the group was that the rain would ruin the rest of the trip. Everyone in the group but myself and Golden, BC snowboarder Chris Soper were from elsewhere in the world. We knew all to well that rain in late March meant snow in the mountains. It was just too early in the season for rain to make it that high in the Rocky Mountains of BC, Canada.

The rooster call of the very “real” kind in the morning came quick on the ranch and we wandered are way over to the main lodge to get in the vans for the transfer over to the Cats. Frosty peaks and a lower snowline made for a promising ride up into the alpine. The guides filled us in on the good news that fifteen centimetres had fallen overnight and today would be an amazing day at Powder Cowboy. It was enough snow to refresh all the terrain and not too much to load the slopes and raise the danger.

The guides set a really good pace and the runs became more and more exciting and more intense as the day went on. Lapping trees on the “Iron Side” and finding fun little jumps all over the place kept the tempo of the day really up-beat. The guides in the group, Jamie and Trevor, took turns as lead and tail guide. This made for a nice mix of run choices.

Nighttime at Powder Cowboy was pretty mellow for us. The bartender kept us entertained with stories of parties that happen there. I guess that’s the way it all breaks down… Some groups party and some just like to ride and relax. Relaxing is quite easy here though and as soon as dinner is over and you’ve headed back to your own cabin sleep comes quick. A couple logs on the fire and before you know it your hitting the alarm button and lacing your boots up for another day on the Powder Cowboy range.

The trip was consistently getting more and more fun. People were loosening up and everyone in the Cat was talking more and more. The guides were opening more and more terrain to us as well. We did some small hikes that lead us into some really awesome terrain in the “Big Cruiser Bowl” area. The gem run of the trip though was toss up between “Mr. Perfect” and the “Accelerator” bowl.  These are some of Powder Cowboys more intense areas and if you’re lucky with the right conditions and weather you’ll score these amazing pieces of mountain terrain.

We wrapped up the tour and rode more than enough fresh lines for the days we were there. A really amazing experience being on the ranch and even better was the new experience of being in this part of southern, BC. Fresh new snow on fresh new terrain is one of the best things you can experience on a board. Don’t ever let someone else’s opinion or a photo dictate on where you go snowboarding… You have to live it to know it.

More info: http://www.powdercowboy.com

Fernie, British Columbia, Canada, February 26, 2010 – While spring is in the air at some of British Columbia’s lower elevations, the snowpack is at its greatest depth of the season in and around Fernie, B.C., and the folks at Powder Cowboy Catskiing report some of the best ski conditions of the season. Furthermore, according to many Fernie locals, more snow is on the way, with some of the biggest storms expected to hit the area throughout the upcoming month of March. The B.C. ski season usually runs from December through April, however, by late February the snowpack is typically quite deep as a result of heavy snowfall throughout the early winter months.

Powder Cowboy, a western themed Catskiing resort, located near Fernie B.C., sits on roughly six thousand acres of prime British Columbian backcountry ski terrain. Although the area includes a wide variety of different environments, it is most well known for tree skiing and happens to be home to some of the world’s most impressive evergreen glades. Powder Cowboy’s tenure offers some steep vertical runs as well as a number of less extreme slopes that are perfect for intermediate skiers.

The resort is situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the catskiing capital of North America, in a mountainous area known as the Lizard Range. This region is known for producing between 40-60 feet of deep, dry champagne powder, annually, which attracts skiers and snowboarders from all around the globe. One reason that Powder Cowboy has recently become such a popular heli ski destination is the fact that it is less expensive and offers more availability than other catskiing resorts, such as its sister operation, Island Lake Lodge, which is typically booked solid for at least a year in advance.

In addition to various snowcat skiing packages, Powder Cowboy also offers day skiing from time to time, allowing the locals to get a taste of some of Fernie’s best ski terrain. Some of the operation’s special offers include a family package as well as an all girl ski tour, which needs to be booked in advance. Every so often, there is a last minute opening and seats are offered at a discount rate.

Powder Cowboy is British Columbia’s only western theme ski resort and it also doubles as a dude ranch during the summer months. Some of the things that visitors most enjoy about this particular facility are the rustic but comfortable accommodations, excellent cuisine and the down home hospitality of its staff.

Powder Cowboy is home the Bull River Guest Ranch, which consists of 10 separate log cabins, eight of which serve as lodging facilities for the resort’s guests. Among these are a recently constructed 4 suite cabin and the newly renovated Honeymoon Cabin. In addition to being equipped with in-floor heating and a wood burning fireplace, each of the cabins comfortably sleeps at least two to four people. There is also a main cabin, called the Big Horn Saloon, which includes a kitchen, dining room, bar and massage rooms, as well as a hot tub and sauna cabin that is also equipped with showers.

While the Guest Ranch itself is situated below the snow line, Powder Cowboy’s tenure is home to a number of high alpine ridges and drops with lines that descend in virtually every direction. Throughout the winter season (December-April), this terrain is consistently covered in deep, dry powder. At present, there is approximately two and a half meters of snow on the ground at 2000 feet. With more fresh powder expected to fall in the upcoming weeks, conditions are perfect for some world class catskiing.

ABOUT:

Powder Cowboy Catskiing near Fernie B.C. boasts 6000 acres of big bowls, steep chutes and is famous for world class gladed tree skiing. The white gold on the Western Rockies is legendary for quality and quantity, with over 10 meters (over 30 feet!) of dry champagne powder falling every season.

Fernie, British Columbia, Canada, February 18, 2010 – GMC World of Skiing Host and Famed Whistler bad boy Joe Lammers is at it again. Prior to his recent visit to Island Lake Lodge, which aired on Rogers SportsNet just last month, Joe and the crew of GMC visited the one and only Powder Cowboy Catskiing, located just outside of Fernie B.C., in the heart of the majestic Canadian Rockies, catskiing capital of the world.

Powder Cowboy is one of the well known and respected catskiing operations in all of North America. Located on some 6000 acres of prime catskiing tenure in the south east corner of British Columbia, Powder Cowboy is home to the Bull River Guest Ranch, which is comprised of ten separate log cabins. The largest of these is the Long Horn Salute, whose facilities include a dining room, bar, kitchen and massage rooms. Powder Cowboy’s world class catskiing resort also doubles as a dude ranch in the summer.

Because it is located on the western slopes of the Canadian Rockies, Powder Cowboy’s terrain gets a particularly impressive amount of deep dry powder each winter. In fact, the resort’s tenure enjoys 40-60 feet of powder each year, making it a Mecca for ski junkies from all over the planet.

Nevertheless, despite the enormous size of its tenure, Powder Cowboy is by no means a mega resort. In fact, its terrain is serviced by only two snow cats, with a capacity of 12 passengers each. This means that Powder Cowboy’s lucky guests get to enjoy uncrowded slopes and lay fresh tracks on virtually every run. Small group size in addition to personalized service and outstanding lodging facilities are just three of the factors that set Powder Cowboy apart from the competition.

Powder Cowboy is also the only BC catskiing resort with a western theme, and its rustic but comfortable accommodations added to the down home hospitality of its friendly staff are simply unparalleled. The main lodge is both spacious and inviting. It is the perfect place to enjoy a gourmet meal, expertly prepared by the resort’s talented kitchen staff, which is made up of qualified red seal chefs.

But what truly draws world class athletes and amateurs alike to Powder Cowboy is the prospect of skiing fresh dry Champagne powder, while surrounded by some of the most awe inspiring natural scenery on the planet. As the resort’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Darryn Shewchuk, is quick to point out, Powder Cowboy is primarily known for tree skiing. Its tenure is filled with an abundance of glades and steep tree lines that go right up to the ridge tops themselves. These make for a variety of tree runs that start at the very tops of the ridges and lead directly down into the valley bottoms and meadows below.

Tree spacing is also ideal, providing just enough room for skiers maneuver as they make their way through the glades and while there are some open bowls to ski here is as well, tree skiing is what Powder Cowboy is most famous for. The terrain is divided into several different areas. The Cabin Zone features open slopes and spacious tree glades that are perfect for warm-up runs. The Backside of the cruisers on the other hand is home to some really steep chutes and bowls. The Lizard Zone is the place to be for tree skiing and is home to some impressive old-growth forest made up mostly of spruce and fir.

Powder Cowboy has an abundance of long ridges and peaks with lines dropping in virtually every heli ski direction. This makes it easy for the snowcats to access the drop zones. Nevertheless, for the more adventurous, there are also some other spots, which require a little boot hiking and provide access to some incredible and otherwise inaccessible lines, such as those found on Yeti Backside, Snakes and Ladders and 3G.

ABOUT:

Powder Cowboy Snowcat skiing near Fernie B.C. boasts 6000 acres of big bowls, steep chutes and is famous for world class gladed tree skiing. The white gold on the Western Rockies is legendary for quality and quantity, with over 10 meters (over 30 feet!) of dry champagne powder falling every season.

The main message from our guest comment cards was that Island Lake Resort Group (Mica Heli, Powder Cowboy and Island Lake) have the best staff in the industry offering great guiding, fantastic food and top shelf service.

We are happy to report that the pricing for Catski and Classic Heliski tours has not increased for 2010 however the value continues to improve on our tour packages. US guests have the added bonus of 20% on current exchange rates!

Another positive note is that bookings are already stong for 2010. Our Catskiing deposits have been lowered for 2010 and early booking specials are in effect.

Mica Heli Guides has added a new Premium tour so guests now have the option of skiing in one, two or three groups of four per helicopter.

There are still some prime seats available so give us a call toll free, send us an email or visit our websites to reserve your spot for 2010.

From all the staff here “thank you for skiing or boarding with us!” We welcome you back for some more deep dry powder next season.

Now Booking 2010

US residents save 20% with current exchange rates!

Catsking 1-888-4CATSKI (422-8754) info@islandlakeresorts.com
Helisking 1-(877 or 250)-837-6191 info@micaheli.com

Mica Heliskiing is 100% small group heliskiing – operating three “semi-private” groups of four guests in one A-Star helicopter and one “private” group of four in a second Bell 407 helicopter. Only 16 people and a quarter million acres of terrain on the western slope of the BC Rockies. “When skiing, riding or touring in small groups of four, guest can access a much wider variety of terrain, tailored to what their individual group desires, intermediate to expert. No waiting, no jockeying for first tracks, we take you to the goods!” says Darryn Shewchuk, Mica Heli Guides Director of Marketing.

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 near Fernie B.C. For more information on small group heliskiing contact Darryn Shewchuk at 1.877.837.6191 x2002.

Mother Nature was kind to the competitors and provided 40-50 cm of fresh snow
over the 3-day event. Many of the photographers took advantage of the stormy weather
producing moody, atmospheric images that impressed the judges and crowd. An afterparty
followed each day of hard work, where prizes were awarded and a slideshow of
the photographer’s best shots were displayed. The event has given some
experience and exposure to up and coming photographers in Western Canada.
Island Lake General Manager Steve Kuijt said: “I was very impressed with the
creativity and talent shown by all of this year’s photographers…I thought I knew all the
great photo spots and angles up there, but I guess I was wrong!” Planning for next
year’s event has already begun.

Monday’s winners were:
Best Scenic: Kyle Hamilton
Best Composition: Chris Messervey
Best Athletic Performance: Sam Guther (shot by Aaron Whitfield)
Tuesday’s winners were:
Best Scenic: Mark Gribbon
Best Composition: Mark Gribbon
Best Athletic Performance: Mikel Witlox (shot by Ben van der Valk)
Wednesday’s winners were:
Best Scenic: Kyle Hamilton
Best Composition: Aaron Whitfield
Best Athletic Performance: Martin Gallant (shot by Mark Gribbon)
Best Overall Portfolio ($2,000) went to: Mark Gribbon
Best Overall Team Went to: Aaron Whitfield, Sam Guther, Marni Wilson and Derek Root
Sponsors for the event were: K2 Skis, The North Face, Smith Optics, Spy Optics, Peak
Performance, Hestra Gloves, Solomon and Icebreaker Clothing.

A Slideshow of the submitted images can be found at:
http://www.islandlakeresorts.com/winter/photo_video.html

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!

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.

For additional information on Island Lake Lodge and the Photo Shoot Out contact
Mike McPhee
Director of Sales and Marketing
Island Lake Resort Group
mike@islandlakeresorts.com
P: 250.423.3700 ext 3002
F: 250.423.4055
T: 1.888.422.8754
www.powdercowboy.com
www.islandlakecatskiing.com

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!