Guest Ranch Vacations

Horses for Sale

2012-02-18T18:45:00.000-08:00

This is one of our horses who we sold 3 yrs ago and look how well he is doing.
I purchased Slim from Chilcotin Holidays about three years ago. I just love him to bits and he is so much fun to work with using the natural horsemanship. Kimberley, Canada
If you are interested in purchasing one of our horses, send Kevan Bracewell an e-mail by clicking here

2012-02-15T14:56:00.000-08:00

The sun is shining and the sky is blue on this beautiful winters day in the South Chilcotin Mountains. It is a good day for a ride out in the snow. Why don't you check out our website by clicking here and see what you could be doing this winter at Chilcotin Holidays.

Ice Fishing at Pearson's Pond

2012-02-11T15:06:00.000-08:00

Kevan Bracewell (owner and founder of Chilcotin Holidays) took the staff out to Pearson's Pond to experience Ice Fishing and to catch a fish for their supper. If you too are interested in keeping warm by the fire whilst being out on a frozen lake catching fish then visit our website and send us an e-mail by clicking here.

Teeth floating time!

2012-02-06T20:59:00.000-08:00

All our Horses get their teeth floated twice a year to remove all sharp points and make sure they get the best from their food. Floating a horses teeth involves using a metal bit to open their mouth and a file to remove the sharp points.

Floating their teeth doesn't hurt them as there are no nerves at the surface of the tooth and most of them stand calmly while we work away.

Some of the new staff got the chance to try out their dentistry skills.

(This is Maja checking out Noel's teeth)

Horse Exercise at Chilcotin Holidays!

2012-01-30T08:26:00.000-08:00

It's been snowing the last week, our horses had white fur with little icicles on their belly. Kevan Bracewell (owner of Chilcotin Holidays) believes the snow provides a great source of exercise for the horses in the winter with the best footing being when the ground is covered with a few inches of snow, as long as it isn't icy underneath. Snow provides wonderful exercise for your horse's leg muscles and cardiovascular system, even if it's deep. Do you want to go for a ride? Come and visit the snowy Chilcotin Holidays Guest Ranch! Click here for more information.

It's Icy in Carpenter Mine!

2012-01-27T08:26:00.000-08:00

Some of our staff went to check out the old mine at Carpenter Lake. It looks so magical with huge icicles hanging down. The only thing you can hear is the quite dripping on the ground..... spooky! We can take you there, just give us a call or send us an email and we can start planning your adventure of a lifetime.

Frosty Lashes at Chilcotin Holidays!

2012-01-24T11:32:00.001-08:00

It was really cold here last week with temperatures down to -25 degrees at the Ranch.
Our horses get so exited every day when we feed them hay, they all gallop down trying to be one of the first horses at the hay bale.
The true character of their wildhorse origins are shining through... free... natural ... beautiful and just happy!

Pure Wilderness

2012-01-22T11:32:00.000-08:00

Experience the 5 Stars of Chilcotin Holidays: amazing wildlife, dry climate, fantastic views, sunshine & blue sky ... what else can you ask for?
You're right, for one of our special mountain cayuse ponies. They are calm, stable and reliable in each situation!

Check out our website: www.adventures@chilcotinholidays.com

Hiking in the Chilcotin Mountains

2012-01-18T09:20:00.000-08:00

Bring your friends and get 10% Discount if you are a group of 4 or more and book before 28th February!
Hike with your essentials for the day, whilst your packhorse carries everything else into the alpine. Hike along historic pioneer trails, winding along the mountain tops until you reach mountains with 360 degree views of breathtaking scenery.

Bareback Ride to Pearsons Pond

2012-01-15T08:53:00.000-08:00

We all rode together to Pearsons Pond, some with saddle and some bareback! The horses were really exited to go for a little trip in the snow with us. The pond is completly frozen, so we could see a lot of tracks from coyotes, wolves and lynx who have crossed the lake. On our way back we saw a coyote he was very close to us, just standing there watching us for about 5 minutes. It was so cute!

Health care at the Ranch

2012-01-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

All of our 38 horses have been de-wormed, we need to do it four times a year. Each horse gets a syringe filled with the right amount for their weight and body height. We give it to them by grabbing the tongue from the side and squirting the de-wormer in their mouth at the side where they have no teeth. It doesn't hurt them at all and smells like strawberries ...Yummy!

Morning light at the Ranch

2012-01-10T08:52:00.000-08:00

We had an amazing sunrise today at the ranch!
The Mountains were all rose colored and the snow glittered amazingly in the first daylight. It is a cold morning today, you can see your breath, everything has been covered in ice crystals over the night. As the first sun shafts touch the mountain tops we know it's going to be another wonderful day at the ranch... come and join us!

Merry Cowboy Christmas

2012-01-06T12:43:00.000-08:00

We had a full house at Christmas! Some of our staff had family and friends coming up to the ranch. Together we cooked a big traditional Christmas Dinner, played some music, sat underneath our beautiful Christmas tree at the side of the open fire. How much more Christmassy can it be...
We hope all of you had a cozy Christmas and a good start in the new year 2012!

The Coyotes and the Eclipse at Chilcotin Holidays

2011-12-12T07:50:00.000-08:00

Two nights ago it was clear, cold and a bright full moon reflected off the sparkling snow, lighting up the ranch. As we were closing everything up for the night, we heard a faint howl, our dogs heard it too and became alert, staring into the darkness at the surrounding forest.

We stood silently and listened, it came again, louder, it was coyotes. They howled and barked at the full moon for an hour before the sound got fainter. Later that night came the lunar eclipse which created an eerie yet awesome red glow, the howling started again and we all felt shivers down our spine.

Winter feed delivered

2011-11-22T14:39:00.000-08:00

Hay bails got delivered today. One of our staff member brought them all, one by one, with the skidder up to our back coral where the horses are staying.

We are now all set with good feed to keep our horses strong and healthy all winter until next season!

Ready for the winter

2011-11-15T12:28:00.000-08:00

Our horses started growing their natural winter coat to face the cold and the snow, they look all fluffy and are real soft to touch !

Most of them still had shoes on when they came back to the ranch and our guides had to pull all the shoes off for the winter : over 100 shoes to pull off in one afternoon! Thankfully, the horses were very cooperative which helped get the job done quickly.

They are now all walking « barefoot » in the snow…

Home sweet home

2011-11-12T17:02:00.000-08:00

All our horses are finally back at the ranch after spending a few weeks out in bush, resting and grazing all they could after a busy season . Tatla, Jim, Grey and Mowson thought they could hide a little longer in the bush without being noticed… Three of our guides went looking for them under the snow and chased them back to the ranch. It feels nice to be home !

Alzira (Magnum), Joe (Tyaughton), Izzy (Lorna)

Day 5 - The Riders Return

2011-09-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday our eight riders returned from their 5 day sponsored mountain trek after riding a total of 112km/70miles - generating a grand total of 896km/560 miles towards the On Horse for Horses campaign!!!
During the last two days of their journey they ventured to the highest mountain tops where the steep shale slopes, deep snow and extreme weather makes for some seriously tough riding (and walking!), in true cowboy country.

After a long day in the saddle, our riders and horses made it to the last camping place on the final night of the trek after sunset and had to set up camp in the dark! While the horses went out to graze, the riders enjoyed a quick cup of hot chocolate and soup around the campfire before jumping into their sleeping bags to keep warm. They woke on the final morning before returning to camp to see that they had the perfect vantage point, with a 360 degree view of mountain ranges stretching into the distance, they watched the sunrise over the Coastal and Chilcotin Mountains ranges and sipped their cowboy coffee.

All horses and humans are now back home safe and sound, chewing on hay and relaxing around the ranch, respectively, with lots of stories about their adventure.

To donate to the On Horses for Horses campaign, just click here.

Chilcotin Holidays' Banff Film Festival Entry

2011-07-31T11:41:00.000-07:00

This week Chilcotin Holidays completed and submitted a film to Banff Film Festival. The movie documents the life of Lead Guide Lisa and her brave determination to beat childhood cancer and become a Wilderness Guide against the odds. The inspirational story will be judged against hundreds of other entries at this years film festival, stay tuned to find out what happens yet.

New Heights for our Pack Trips

2011-07-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

One of our pack trips returned from camp yesterday after being the first people of the year to reach the rugged, yet pristine, camp of Eldorado in the high mountain landscape of the Eldorado Basin. Get in touch to book your pack trip adventure.

Wilderness Guide Training

2011-07-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

Our guide school training courses are in full swing with another 2 week wilderness guide students camping out this week. They were lucky enough to see a Grizzly sow with four cubs! We have lots of courses still on our summer schedule so get in touch to book your spot!

Mantracker Special Pack Trip

2011-07-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

Russ Floyd, guide and Mantracker sidekick, will be leading a special pack trip this August. This seven day level III trip is part of our Tried and Tested Series and is open to past guests only. Contact us if you want to experience this once in a life time trip!

Russ watching a grizzly on a pack trip

Join us on a Summer Pack Trip in the Chilcotin Mountains

2011-07-02T09:32:00.000-07:00

We have a busy start to the season with several pack trips heading up into the mountains this week. The summer flowers are beginning to open on the sidehills- We have trips to suit every guest. For more information on joining one of our pack trips check out our website www.chilcotinholidays.com.

Grizzly Viewing Trips

2011-06-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

Prime Grizzly viewing in our sub alpine camps is June 1st through July 15. But most horse pack trips see grizzlies right through to October. Last week our Guide School saw a Sow with 4 cubs- a pretty unusual sight!
We can also do Truck based Grizzly viewing day trips, and have courses in bear defense for those who want to enjoy the wilderness in a responsible way when on their own. Call us for details and to book your opportunity to see these animals in their home. A true Canadian experience unlike any other.

Hike the Chilcotin Mountains

2011-06-09T09:09:00.001-07:00

Join us on one of our Hiking Trips in the Chilcotin Mountains. We offer guided multi-day alpine hiking trips and wilderness trekking tours. Explore secluded alpine basins keep your eye out for abundant wildlife and enjoy open-air lunches with stunning scenery. We have over 150 species of wildflowers which cover the alpine meadows during the summer months.

Chilcotin Holidays Guest Ranch Vacation Packages

2011-05-31T17:29:00.000-07:00

Choose between staying in our western family guest ranch house or one of our wilderness chalets on the ranch property on a Chilcotin Holidays ranch based trip.We have lots of activities to choose from including grizzly viewing, hiking, trailriding, targetshooting, goldpanning...and more

How about taking a mini guide school with your family this summer and get an introduction to horse shoeing, packing and even float some horses teeth!

Flowers, Flowers Flowers

2011-04-24T08:32:00.001-07:00

From May to September the South Chilcotin Mountains are alive with flora and fauna. Horse riding, wildlife viewing and flowering alpine meadows is the best all-round combination for a wilderness vacation.
Do you want to see a Grizzly Bear lying on his stomach pulling himself through a field of wild flowers with bouquets of flowers sticking out the side of his mouth?

The yellow flowers of the Spruce Lake side hills will be a bumper crop in May and June 2011. Balsa Root is what these colourful flowers are called. The name does not match their grandeur. Because of the good snow pack this Winter, the mountains side will be painted yellow for 6-8km in length and 1 km deep. the flower heads are over 4 inches in diameter. There will be clusters of 10 to 20 flower heads in each plant and they will stand over 24 inches tall, belly deep to the horses. To witness this display of nature at it's peak is a rare experience of the Chilcotin Mountains not had by many.

2011-04-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

Mantracker, Terry Grant, rides the horse trails of the Chilcotin Mountains

Tune in April 17th 2011 9pm ET/PT to OLN for the premiere episode of Season 6 featuring our guide Russ Floyd

Shane Doan, Team Canada, hockey player and Phoenix Coyotes captain and his brother Brook are the hunted on the premiere episode of Mantracker, Season 6. Russ Floyd acts as Mantracker's right hand man and Chilcotin Mountain guide. Russ and Mantracker, Terry Grant, rode our mountain horses in the pursuit of Shane and Brook- the hunted in the premiere show, April 17th 2011.

How did Russ get a chance to ride with Mantracker on the international reality TV show? When Russ was 18 he took the Wilderness Horse Pack Guide Training Program with Chilcotin Holidays. He learnt all the skills to be guide, then he taught the guide training programs at Chilcotin Holidays. Russ guides year round doing Mountain Horse Pack Trips, Grizzly Viewing Trips, Horse Logging and Horse Shoeing.

The Horse Back Guide Training first program is full - the second program runs May 16th - 28th - we say that if you want to work as a Horse Back Guide, take the the first schools of the year and you're ready to work for this season. We do schools until mid-September so if earlier ones don't fit your schedule, you will be ready next season.

Russ guides guests in the same mountains the two episodes of Mantracker were filmed. Guests can request to ride the same horse and ride the same trails that Mantracker rode when he hunted Shane Doan and his brother in the premiere episode.

2011-04-11T10:34:00.000-07:00

Helicopter Trips at Chilcotin Holidays

For those who want to add a bit of luxury to their Chilcotin Holidays wilderness adventure, arrive in style in an executive helicopter. Fly directly from Vancouver Airport to our Ranch and enjoy a bird's eye view of the ranges of south-western British Columbia. Enjoy a sightseeing helicopter tour from the ranch and see the South Chilcotin Mountains looming up between the Coast Mountains and the Chilcotin Plateau.

Contribute to Wildlife Stewardship

Get in on a helicopter working trip, taking supplies into a mountain camp, doing a wildlife survey for mountain goat, Big Horn sheep, Canadian moose or grizzly bear, or go on a filming flight - the adventure opportunities by helicopter are unique and customized.

I heard about this place in the Mountains

2011-04-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

I heard about this place in the Mountains

My name is Kayla, I'm 12 and I live in a big city called Vancouver B.C. but I've heard about another place in British Columbia. One of my friends had mentioned to me several years ago about a place in Gold Bridge B.C. Up there is a Ranch, a place where there are many different things to discover. It's a quiet place, that has animals such as horses, cougars, rabbits, squirrels, mice and more. I actually recently went to the ranch in late January, with my friend Hilary and it was an adventure of a lifetime!

The first day I was up and ready to see the horses. I was excited for the horseback ride and as I would be learning, it would be a time to also conquer one of my biggest fears: Heights. When we got to the top of the mountain,we also had to go back down, on a horse! I was terrified. Sometimes you just have to put your faith in your horse and the person who is leading the way. It was definitely a moment to remember.

We decided to also go on the snow mobiles which was actually a really fun experience! Hilary and I fell off almost 5 times! Because the snow was so deep, when you would get off the snow mobile, you would absolutely sink! We both had a lot of good laughs about it. I am so blessed that I got this experience and I just can't wait until the next time!

Horse Pack Trips

2011-03-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

Our Horse pack trips run from May to October out of our sub-alpine meadows camp where wildflowers and wildlife are abundant. Come and see for yourself the amazing variety of wildflowers, Indian Paint Brush, Lupine and Balsa Root. Our 4 - 7 Day pack trips have you out in the mountains at camps where you can explore a new area everyday and view wildlife in its natural habitat. Black and Grizzly Bear, Mountain Goat, Wolf and Deer are just a few of the animals you can expect to run in to. Here is an example of our 4 Day Horse Pack Trip Itinerary

Day 1

The first day of your 4-Day Horse Pack Trip sees you leaving the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver in the morning, departing at 7am. Travel the historic highways with opportunities to spot wildlife as the road winds itself along famous rivers and pristine lakes. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of mountains and canyons as you leave the driving up to us on our Chilcotin Express. After the spectacular 5-hour drive, arrive at our Guest Ranch at noon in time to hear the lunch bell ring. Sit down for a homemade lunch of fresh vegetables and salads, hearty homemade soup, freshly prepared sandwiches and oven baked biscuits. When you have taken your fill, your guides will take you through a map orientation of our 6,000sqkm guide operating territory including the unique terrain and the camp(s) you will be staying at during your pack trip. We then take you through a thorough Horse Orientation to prepare for your days riding the mountains. We begin by matching you to your horse and getting a good fit with your saddle. Our horses are Mountain Cayuse ponies that live and work in the mountains. These unique horses come from the wild herds of the Cariboo-Chilcotin, a mixture of breeds developed over generations. They have a stamina, toughness, energy, intelligence and spirit required to take riders safely into the mountains. Whatever your age or experience, we have just the horse for you.The Orientation will give you a complete introduction to Western Mountain riding. You can get involved in bridling, saddling and learning how to tie the bowline knot. You will learn how to control your horse by practicing horse sports in the gymkhana. Once all the "kinks" have been worked out, we take you along the rushing river on our afternoon "River Ride. After having worked up your appetite from the afternoon's adventure, enjoy our Western far of our famous Ranch suppers. In the evening, we make preparations for the next 2 days in camp by repacking your personal gear into duffel bags. Then, overnight comfortably at the Ranch, ready for next day's adventure.

Day 2

We get an early start to today. After a hot and filling breakfast, head out to the barn, and you'll get to learn how to pack, throw the Diamond Hitch and learn some new wrangler skills! Once packed, saddled and mounted, the adventure starts. Setting out like pioneer explorers, we make our way to camp. In nomadic style, travel by horseback through mountain-top passes,experience wide U-shaped valleys with their mosaic of wildflowers, wild hay meadows and biggame mineral licks and encounter the wildlife that greets you along the way. After a day's ride, we arrive at camp. Relax after a well-deserved meal, or get involved taking the horses out to the meadows at night to stake and hobble. Enjoy a campfire under star-studded skies and be lulled into restful sleep, listening to the gentle jingle of the horse bells. Photo opportunities are plentiful!

Day 3

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the last day at camp. We pack up camp and saddle up for your morning ride. As the sun reaches high overhead, take lunch alfresco-style, perhaps at the foot of a mountain or linger awhile at the mouth of a glacial fed river, before riding the trail that takes us back to the Ranch. Return to the Ranch and share your amazing experience over a hearty dinner. Then, spend the evening enjoying our library, swimming at a nearby lake, or playing a board game before enjoying the camaraderie of the evening campfire. Or, make the most of your adventure with our Activity Options, from guided fishing, gold panning, "hands-on" horse logging demonstrations, shoeing/packing, gymkhana horse sports, Archery and Stargazing. Rest at the Guest Ranch on your last night.

Day 4

On your last day of your 4 Day Horse Pack Trip, just when everyone thinks they have done it all we introduce some new adventure! We then take off the saddle for some bareback lessons. And, for something a bit different, test your aim with some biathlon target shooting. After practicing your marksmanship, enjoy a farewell lunch before departing at 1pm. Reflect on your adventure on the 5-hour drive back to Vancouver. You arrive in Vancouver in the early evening.

More days in the Alpine Mountains are available on all trips over 4 days, 3 nights. Each day added is another day spent riding the mountain tops.

Life as a Wilderness Guide

2011-03-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Ed; I’m 52 years old and live in St Albert Alberta. I’ve been coming out to the Chilcotin Holidays Ranch for the last four years now. I’ve attended the Wilderness Guide and Outfitter courses and have been guiding guests and working around the ranch doing whatever needs to get done.

I grew up a city slicker but worked summers with my uncle who was a horseman with the
harness racing circuit in Manitoba. I loved the horses and atmosphere around the barns and helping to get the horses ready for the season was great fun.

I left home from Winnipeg when I was 17 years old and joined the Canadian Army. Travelling extensively and conducting operations around the world and Canada, at 47 years old I realized it was time to change my combat boots for cowboy boots. I since have been working full time for the Alberta Government as an Emergency Management Officer.

I have come out to the ranch every year as my working holiday and for some life balance. At first I was concerned about my age but now find, although not quite as fast as the 25 year olds,my stamina for the long days has not failed me and I truly feel rejuvenated by the experience each and every summer. I find working with younger people has an infectious spirit that provides for well- being beyond explanation.

My wife kids me saying “you’re are a sucker for hard work”, wilderness guiding is just that, however it is very rewarding hard work and at the end of each and every pack trip it gives me a the sense of satisfaction upon completing another journey that feeds me throughout the remainder of the year in that job back in Edmonton that provides me to eat regular.

Life on the ranch is filed with spectacular views, fresh mornings, and eagerness of physical and mental well-being. Great food for healthy eating, beautiful ranch accommodations for guests and clean well managed camps for the mountain trips are second to none.

There is a true infectious enthusiasm from everyone; guides, ranch hands and staff that the guests cannot help but absorb to give them a great experience. There is more than plenty of wide openness that Chilcotin country provides for, to all who venture into her. Whether a summer trip or a winters frolic, no one could help but feel invigorated! If I were only 25 all over again, mountain life may have become a full time venture for me, que sera sera… life may have turned out a little different but it is still pretty darn good with my “life balance” trips every year ha ha!

I have had many experiences in life and as a paratrooper, however I continue to realize each season at the ranch that my individual growth never ends, life just keeps providing excitement,and I’m a sucker for it all-as my wife says.

Take care all and we’ll see you on the trail in the very near future at Chilcotin

Why People Come From Around The World To Chilcotin Holidays

2011-03-14T16:20:00.000-07:00

Over the last three years the number of foreign visitors, interns and students to our ranch has increased to the level were we can almost say we have had a United Nations from every country, including Indonesia, Switzerland, Germany, France, Philippines, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Spain, USA, Mexico, New Zealand, Australia, England and Iran.

Everyone comes for the same reason - to experience Canadian culture, to experience nature, to be around horses, to develop new skills and to have a once in a lifetime adventure!

Natalie's Story - A Guide From Down Under

2010-12-22T12:08:00.000-08:00

Coming to Chilcotin as a young 22 year old from New Zealand I don't believe I really knew what I was getting myself into. A Chef at a Ski Resort is one thing, but coming to the ranch not knowing how to ride a horse was quite another, talk about leaping from the pan to the fire but hey it wouldn't be the first time.

I always wanted to work with horses and and loved the concept of being outdoors on a ranch, however as a child my mother would not allow me to ride horses citing look at Christopher Reeve, do you want to end up like him. So when I came to Canada two years ago I looked into working on a ranch, only the timing was wrong. Before I came to Canada in December I had a look over the net and Chilcotin Holidays and contacted them.

As someone who doesn't like to do things by halves, I sat my PAL (Gun License) and an Advanced Wilderness First Aid Course. So the 26th April came round and I started a two week Guide School, with Russ and Steph as the guides who were fantastic. The Guide School for someone who barely new which way to sit on a horse was a great way to be introduced to these creatures and to this area. The Guide School was a challenge as it was for the most part completely new.

Working in an environment such as this it is imperative that you get along with everybody as much as possible, as living and breathing each other can get very tedious at times. However the staff at Chilcotin Holidays are amazing and it has been great living with these people, living and working in such close quarters you form bonds and friendships that in a normal existence can take a lifetime to become what they do here in such a short time. To be able to rely on each other is very important as you are dealing with life and death on a daily basis.

Perhaps my closest brush with nature was walking out of the outhouse at Spruce Lake one morning to almost stumble over a Grizzly Bear cub. I'm not going to lie it was probably the single most nerve racking minute in my life! While shaking somewhat I loaded up a bear banger, all while looking to see where the mother Grizzly was and becoming increasingly more perturbed as I could now see three cubs. Eventually I spotted the mother in the clearing in front of me with a fourth cub, she paid very little attention so I endeavored to get some photos, a little hard when ones hands are shaking so much.

But surviving these experiences is what makes the experience so great, these are things you can look back on and tell your children, be it the crossing of raging rivers to chasing bears out of camp to the Bobcat falling out of the tree, leaving the kittens there watching you.

I always new that I had a strong nature, I knew that from the first time I came to Canada by myself. Being out in the wilderness I found myself doing things that were totally new to me and we didn't always know how things would turn out. So it was situations like these that you found yourself in where you literally just had to suck it up and do it, after wards it gave you a new level of confidence.

The question one must ask themselves is do they wish to be safe and take the well traveled path or do you want to live a little and take the less traveled path? For me coming to Chilcotin Holidays was certainly taking the less traveled!

Thanksgiving in the Chilcotin Mountains

2010-09-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

Why not spend this Thanksgiving in one of our beautiful cabins? Imagine it now...seeing your family around the table, the sound of laughter in the air and the smell of a turkey in the oven. As you look out the window to the mountainous landscape you see chipmunks playing on the handmade wooden fences and horses grazing in the meadow. Its then that you are happy with your choice to spend thanksgiving at the Chilcotin Ranch.

Crawling into a grizzly bear den

2010-09-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

"It's located at the base of a fir tree, up a steep embank on a side of a hill. This hidden opening is rather smaller than I imagined to house a bear. As you squirm inside, backwards, it's dark, there's no smell, and there's not a lot of room. It's hard to image a bear lives the winter here. Not many can say they've ever seen a bear den, let alone crawl into one. It was an incredible day on horseback in the pristine wilderness of the South Chilcotins Mountains. Thank you for the once in a lifetime adventure!"
- Helen, Langley, BC

Summer's perfect alpine picnic spot

2010-09-21T13:18:00.000-07:00

Whether you like hiking - or prefer to leave the walking to a horse - we know all the picture perfect locations for a lunch in the South Chilcotin Mountains. Head out from either one of our many alpine camps or a day ride from the ranch.

Relax surrounded by the last of the alpine flowers during the first week of September. Our horses are quite content to graze in the meadow eating the range grass and flowers - thistles preferred - while you take a break for a picnic lunch and admire the scenery.

Can you imagine anything more serene? Without all the stress, deadlines and loud noises surrounding our daily lives. A break that brings you closer to nature is what we all need at least once a year. Come refresh and rejuvenate next summer on either a ranch or pack trip holiday. Book now to reserve your dates and preferred accommodation. Ask about our winter holidays.

Mantracker Films two new Episodes at Chilcotin Holidays

2010-08-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

Two sets of prey, two routes, and a variety of terrain in the South Chilcotin Mountains to cover over 16 days kept Mantracker’s Terry Grant and his professional guide sidekick Russell Floyd scouring the wilderness in pursuit of human prey on horseback. Floyd, one of Chilcotin Holidays’ advanced wilderness guides and graduate/instructor of Chilcotin Holidays’ Canadian Wilderness Tourism Training Centre, was a perfect fit to accompany Grant on his pursuit.

Owner and licensed guide outfitter Kevan Bracewell had sent a proposal and video to Bonterra Productions showcasing extreme horse riding and the five star guided wilderness adventures he has developed over the last twenty years in his exclusive 5,000 square km operating area of the South Chilcotin Mountains. After a few phone calls between Bracewell and producer Ihor Macijiwsky, as well as a scout to check out the terrain ahead of time, the small crew of seven arrived at Chilcotin Holidays on July 22.

Given the run of the place along with home-cooked meals, accommodation, transportation into the mountains, sure-footed Cayuse mountain horses, and the right amount of different terrain for prey and horse made the South Chilcotins easily accessible for filming Mantracker.

For the cameramen, the field work is intense on all Mantracker locations. Camouflaged and camera in hand they run to keep up with the prey or tracker, giving 110% on each episode, and doing everything necessary to ensure the outdoor reality show as real as possible.

For the first time in six years, Macijiwsky’s family joined him on the set of Mantracker. Although in the field filming, Macijiwsky could spend some quality time in the evenings and early mornings while his family was western mountain riding into the rainbow-coloured mountains of the South Chilcotins to photograph the spectacular panorama views of the Coast Range Mountains and flower-blanketed alpine meadows. A welcome break and wilderness adventure getaway from Toronto.

Lawrence Foster, adventure racer and prey cameramen, enjoyed Chilcotin Holidays for it provided an opportunity to see part of the country not commercialized. This is what he and the other cameramen love to do. Explore. They don’t like being in one place for long.

Having Mantracker’s base at Chilcotin Holidays’ ranch house, the crew intermingled with staff, wranglers, pack trip guests, as well as volunteers and wilderness guide interns from around the world. Shifty, one of the cameramen, laughs and says, “Chilcotin Holidays is as close as it comes to having fun while shooting. In terms of hospitality, the people and the environment at the guest ranch have been phenomenal.”
To find out if Terry Grant Mantracker catches his prey in British Columbia’s South Chilcotin Mountains – you’ll have to wait till season six which airs September 2011. In the meantime, get more information on having your own outdoor adventure of a lifetime on a customized horse, foot, or bike wilderness trip through the trails which natives, explorers, pioneers, and now Mantracker have traversed by visiting Chilcotin Holidays’ website at: www.chilcotinholidays.com

For more insight into the production of Mantracker, visit Bonterra Productions website at: www.mantracker.ca

Grizzly Viewing

2010-04-09T16:10:00.000-07:00

Grizzly viewing Included in guest ranch stay

Take a 4 HR Grizzly Viewing Adventure by 4 Wheel drive
off road truck with your 4 Day Guest Ranch Stay - May, June and September

This Grizzly viewing package can be taken on a midweek or weekend stay.
4 Day - 3 Night Package

Grizzly Viewing opportunities on each Horse Pack Trip

Grizzly Viewing is a possibility on all regular 7 day pack trips.
Over 50% of our guests encounter Grizzly's in June, July and September. So if you want to have a good chance to view Grizzly's on horseback, this Horse Pack Trip is the one to book!
7 Day - 6 Night Pack Horse Trip

Hike the Chilcotin Mountains

2010-04-09T16:00:00.000-07:00

$500.00 per person 7 day/6 Night Hike Trips in the Chilcotin Mountains

There are 10 camps to choose from. This is a self guided, self catered trip. We supply the equipped camp, pack horse and guide to get you in to the camp and to the trail head drop off and pick up point.
At your own interests you can explore the wild flower meadows, the mountain goat and big horn sheep and soak up the breathtaking 360 views.

Easter at the Ranch

2010-04-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

We are celebrating Easter with friends, family and new additions to the Chilcotin Holidays team. The kids had a great time painting eggs and then having an Easter Egg hunt, all around the ranch!

Mother nature provides birch tree syrup and with the spring time warming of the weather, the sap begins to run! We tapped some of our birch trees and are boiling down the sweet water into some delicious Birch Tree syrup.

Canadian Biathlon Coach former Chilcotin Holidays Wilderness Guide

2010-02-08T23:23:00.000-08:00

His dream was to live in Canada. Peter Zidek, a Canadian biathlon coach and mentor, embodies the Olympic sport in work and life and has inspired his children, and a generation of Canadian athletes, to do the same.

A forester by profession, Peter, his wife, two children, and the family dog escaped Czechoslovakia in 1982 to settle in Canmore, Alberta. In his forties, with a young family to support, Peter worked a number of jobs and devoted hundreds of hours setting cross-country courses and training young Canadian biathletes.

Raised in the mountains, Peter sought work in British Columbia guiding clients for outfitters. At Chilcotin Holidays Wilderness Guest Ranch, in Gold Bridge, BC, Peter found a variety of employment suited to his education in flora, fauna, and land-use management – in a setting which easily rivals the mountains of Europe.

At this year-round resort, where wilderness adventures are just one of the many activities, Peter worked as an instructor in Chilcotin Holidays’ Canadian Wilderness Tourism Training Centre training students to be horse-based wilderness guides. He also guided guests on foot and horseback into the pristine mountain ranges of the South Chilcotins. During one season, Peter’s son accompanied him to teach students how to log with a team of horses in the ranch woodlot.

Both Peter’s son and daughter made the Junior National Biathlon Team and went on to compete in the World Champions, together. Kate won gold and silver in Canadian championships before retiring and Tom is an assistant coach for the Canadian Biathlon Team.

When the 2010 Winter Games have concluded in Vancouver, Peter will be returning to Chilcotin Holidays. This time he brings with him a few biathlon champions from Norway and Sweden who share in Peter’s passion for the sport and nature. These visitors want to have a closer look at some of British Columbia’s incredible wildlife and scenery before returning home.

Chilcotin Holidays Armature Video Selection Grows

2010-02-08T22:44:00.000-08:00

The latest video “Gambling at the Line Cabin” acted, directed and edited by Chilcotin Holidays Lead Guide, Russell Floyd, is available on YouTube. Russ was inspired after attending the Banff Film Festival last fall. Check out Russ’ videos on YouTube.

Family Pack Horse Trips become mini Guide School for all Participants

2010-02-08T21:47:00.000-08:00

When novice riders are involved in fitting all the equipment to the horse then confidence grows with their skill. All our guests are invited to saddle and bridle their own horse and also to go out with the guide to wrangle the horses in the meadows – staking, hobbling and belling. Tying up the pack saddle, trimming horses’ hooves, and even helping with shoeing are all possibilities during our pack trips. Adventure participation and education are a great combination for a once in a life time experience.

Congratulations Elvie

2010-02-08T14:53:00.000-08:00

We celebrate Elvie! Elvie worked at Chilcotin Holidays in the accounting department for four years. She has combined her business savvy with her Indonesian culture to establish a unique, international, high end coffee business. She’s a real entrepreneur. Check it out here.

The Golden Triangle of the Chilcotin Region

2010-02-08T14:36:00.000-08:00

Three unique geographic experiences – the best of the mountains, river canyons and plateaus and three magnificent vacation locations:

Chilcotin Holidays Guest Ranch - Horse riding in the Chilcotin Mountains, miles of sub-alpine meadows covered in 150 species of wildflowers, grizzly viewing, 50 million year old fossils

Echo Valley Ranch – exploring the Fraser River Canyon with its unique geographic features, wildlife and grassland vegetation

Chaunigan Lake Lodge in the Chilcotin Plateau – In the triangle home of wild horses herds, big native rainbow trout, native rodeos and wilderness

Book a stay at all 3 lodges the same year and get 10% off of list prices

Keeping the Tradition Alive - The Girl Guides visit Chilcotin Holidays

2010-02-08T14:09:00.000-08:00

A few summers ago, Linda Rainbow took part in a pack trip with her fellow Girl Guides. It was an experience that changed her life. Later on, Linda returned to the ranch and took part in our 2-Week Wilderness Guide Training Course and became a licensed Wilderness Guide. Last summer, Linda's second season of guiding, she guided another group of Girl Guides through the mountains. It sounds like this experience had a large impact on the girls again. One of the Girl Guides wrote about her trip. Here is Kendra's story:

"The glacier brook bubbled down the side of the mountain. It gurgled over rocks and carved its way down the stream bed. Indian Paintbrushes, purple daisies, and a variety of other wildflowers bent over the brook. The water rolled down and became a deep, glossy pool that reflected the cobalt blue of the sky. I stood in that nearly frozen brook for nearly six minutes. Sure it was mid-August, but the chilly mountain stream didn't know that.

The sun was quickly disappearing behind the mountain-side, and the trail guides were heading off to hobble the horses. I wandered back up to the camp, wishing the rest of the group good-night and headed off to bed. After a full day of riding I sleep like a baby in my sleeping bag!

The next morning I awoke to a knocking on the front of the canvas tent. Brenda, the Girl Guide leader, called “Come on girls, it’s time to get up”. A pair of birds called in the distance and the neigh of a horse finally brought me to the surface of my sleeping bag. Pulling on my jeans, t-shirt and bandana I trooped out towards the kitchen, in search of breakfast.

The camp was comfortable and straight out if a story book. A fire pit had long benches around it, a long picnic table, and a kitchen made around a group of trees shaped the Eldorado Camp. The brook gurgled away below us as we ate a hot breakfast and discussed today's ride. We decided on a trail that took us up into the mountain tops. After a long trail ride through flowering meadows we made it to the top. The view was amazing with mountain tops as far as I could see in every direction. Wind gusted around me, and I held onto my camera and saddle to steady myself. The Cayuse Mountain horse I was riding lowered her head as another gust of wind swirled around us.

One of our guides, Linda, pointed out dark patches on the side of the mountain where the rocks had tumbled away. I listened as she told us that it was mostly dark jade and later I joined in with the group searching for the roundest, purest pieces of jade as we rode back down into the valley. The silence of the mountain made me want to yell “echo” to see if I would receive an answer.

Back at camp I sat on a large boulder, rolled my jeans up to my knees and soaked my feet in the refreshing water, just as I had the night before. I thought about the past week. Tomorrow was the last day of this amazing experience. I found myself wondering if I would come back to the Chilcotin Mountains, riding horses through the flowering alpine valleys. I truly hope so."

K. Pederson, BC, 2009

Wolf Calling before Dawn

2010-02-08T13:35:00.000-08:00

February is prime time for wolf calling. This experience is very exciting and one of a kind. Here is what our guest, Anna, wrote about what she experienced here at the ranch:

“The guide let out a long, drawn out, mournful howl. There was a minute of silence, and then we heard a responding howl coming from the pack’s alpha male. His howl echoed between the mountain peaks. The guide copied the lead wolf’s howl, and again after a minute of silence we got an answer. This time the whole pack opened up with different pitches and tones. “The choir is ready”, said the guide and he imitated the lead wolf again and the pack stroke up in unison. They sang longer than the last time and each successive exchange is more vocal and lasts longer. The guide was really getting them going! “Now it's your turn”, the guide said. I had heard the exchanges for about half and hour but I didn't think I could do the call or get them to respond. “Go ahead”, the guide urged me. I gave it a go.

My call came out more high pitched and didn't last as long as what I had been hearing. I was sure they wouldn’t respond, but in less than a minute, their response came back as strong as before. The whole choir was present over the next half hour. I perfected my tone and timing and was feeling like part of the pack myself.
As daylight broke the wolf pack got less responsive and then finally quit all together. We had been exchanging calls for over an hour. The amazing thing is we were standing less than 100 meters from the ranch house! The snow was falling and I was so entranced by the howl of the wolves. I completely forgot where I was! What an experience!”

Anna
January 31, 2010, Chilcotin Holidays Guest Ranch

My first Cougar

2010-02-08T13:20:00.000-08:00

One of our staff members accompanied one of our cougar viewing excursions this winter and wrote a short story about his experience. Read on to hear what Bernhard wrote:
“This was my first time seeing a mountain lion. The guide said that they are all over BC but you rarely see them because they are usually only active at night time. This one I was watching we had just tracked on the freshly fallen snow from the night before. It was sitting on a leaning tree about 15 feet off the ground where it felt safe and let us get close enough for pictures. It was a young one maybe 30 pounds and it was a male, the guide told us. It was fluffy, a tan colour with black spots and looked cuddly.
The guide told us it will change colour after it turns about a year old. The second mountain lion tracks were from a big old tom and when we were finally able to track it down. It took refuge in a big old Douglas fir tree in some rock bluffs. But it was only about 15 feet above the ground and we had lots of opportunities to take pictures of it as it leaned across the big branches in a relaxed pose.
This big mountain lion didn't look threatening at all, at first. Then it opened it’s mouth and showed that it’s wide enough to fit your head! It’s two inch fangs sparkled in the light and the meat slicing molars all the way to the back of its mouth looked like a meat grinder and the weird thing is when it snarled no noise come out. The guide said this big tom weights about 160 pounds and they get up to about 200 pounds. A female will weight around 110 pounds. We were told that this lion could eat a mule deer, mountain sheep or mountain goat once a week. That’s a big appetite! I was just happy that I had my guide with me so that I wouldn’t become the cougar’s next meal!!!”
Bernhard, Germany, 2010

Fresh start to the new decade!

2010-02-08T13:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all! We hope you have all had a great start to 2010! It's a new season at the ranch with many new adventures to look forward to. Some unique experiences our guests and staff have had so far included cougar viewing, deep snow horse riding, snowmobiling, moose viewing, wolf calling, enjoying a (really) white Christmas and ice skating on the frozen pond. The winter season lasts until the end of March so we are expecting many more adventures to come. You are invited to share the experience. Have a good winter and we look forward to seeing you in the mountains this summer.

Spruce Lake Park Backpacker's Lodge a Success!

2009-09-30T20:24:00.000-07:00

The first season ran very smoothly as the lodge. Our guide, Anders, from Denmark, spent the majority of his summer there taking care of guests, renting out canoes and fishing gear, and cooking for guests. We also filmed a few videos there that you will be able to watch on YouTube shortly.
Jarmo, one of our guests at Spruce Lake this summer, moved from Norway to Canada and has been living near Algonquin Park in Ontario for a while now. He is a true outdoorsman and adventurer who attempted to travel the trans-Canadian trail on horseback. Unfortunately his horse bacame injured before he was able to reach the west coast, but all the same, he's a true rider through and through. We had the pleasure of welcoming him to Spruce Lake for a fishing and riding holiday, and even he was impressed by the beautiful landscapes and vistas offered here in the south Chilcotin Mountains.
If you are interested in receiving more information about the services offered at the lodge, check out our website or contact us today!

Are you Spontaneous?

2009-09-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

This is a question not to be taken lightly here at Chilcotin Holidays. Although we do allow for relaxing "Holidays", some guests are actually seeking a vacation at a ranch who's name should sound something more like "Chilcotin Adventures". Usually we can spot these individuals from a mile away, and like to surprise them with opportunities they will never forget.

This summer we welcomed Nicole to the ranch. Travelling from Germany to learn a bit about the tourism industry and to relax for a few days at the ranch, this lady got more than she bargained for! Here is what she wrote:

" Kevan asked me: “Are you spontaneous?” This was the question initiating my incomparable journey through the Chilcotin Mountains. Originally I intended to stay in the Honeymoon Cabin to find some quiet and rest, while possibly adding a day of riding or hiking to spice up the vacation a little. I didn’t expect it to get that spicy at all!

"Just shortly after arriving at the ranch I accidentally stumbled into the horse education and joined it just for fun. At that time I didn’t have a clue how essential those instructions would become for me. The next morning before breakfast Kevan, the owner, visited me at the cabin and asked with an indefinable smile: “Nicole, are you spontaneous?” And spontaneously I answered: “Yes, I am!”

"From this moment on the events came thick and fast - within 30 minutes my horse was saddled, my duffle packed and my supplies tucked to the saddle backs. I was going on a 7 days back pack trip into the Chilcotin Mountains.

"I joined a lovely group consisting of two Canadian women, an English couple and our guide Joel. From the first moment on the chemistry between us was excellent. All of us appreciated the peace and quiet of the mountains, cherished the wonderful nature and we loved horses!

"Furthermore we were very lucky having a fantastic guide like Joel ‘shooing’ us up steep hills, scree slopes and along Mountain crests. We rode to places nobody ever thought a horse would go – neither would a sane human being. We did. And it brought all of us to our limits. The horses were just incredible climbing up the hills like Mountain goats giving us at any time the secure feeling that they knew exactly what they were doing. We agreed that we will always be grateful for those incredible experiences and views.

"We saw a herd of 40 Mountain goats sun bathing at 2700 m, we swam in crystal clear mountain lakes and were spoiled with delicious dinners after 10 to 12 hours of riding. Nature presented us awesome glacier views, blue skies and blooming meadows.
This enriching once of a lifetime experience filled up my sole with joy and energy. So, it definitely pays off being spontaneous! Thank you Chilcotin Holidays for providing me an adventure like this!"

Nicole H.

Staff Member turns into ambitious Entrepreneur

2009-08-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

Alison has been working for Chilcotin Holidays since February, 2008. During her employment at the ranch, her responsibilities ranged from customer service, office administration, form and template development, writing detailed procedures, working with spreadsheets, data analysis, staff scheduling, and marketing. Recently she has taken the first steps in starting her own business. With a science degree in International Horticulture Management from a university in Germany and experience in Project Management and Process Optimization under her belt, Alison is planning on working as a virtual assistant and consultant for her company Birkenhead Business Solutions. Her home based business will give her the flexibility of offering services to companies virtually anywhere via online correspondence and telecommunications. For more information on the types of services offered by Alison, check out her website.

Mountain Cayuse Horses - Getting Fat & Sassy at their Summer Retreat

2009-08-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

Our horses have had it pretty good this summer. Enjoying the sun’s rays, plentiful grass and great views at Brett Camp one might ask whether our guests are on vacation or the horses! The grazing at Brett Camp has resulted in a herd of plump and happy horses, who only reluctantly come back to the ranch to get back to “work”, leading guests through the mountains. But they all get their chance to go on “vacation”, and I wonder how many of the city horses can claim the same???

The hot Summer drives Wildlife onto the Glaciers

2009-08-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

Wildlife viewing this year has been a quite rewarding experience. Our guides and guests have spotted large groups of Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat and Mule Deer bedded down on the glaciers throughout the Chilcotin Mountain Range. Although the wildlife population is quite large in the region, the weather conditions have made it even easier to view these animals in our territory. With the hot weather forcing the population to concentrate themselves in smaller, high-alpine areas, we’ve had extremely high sighting success rates, and the use of our spotting scopes and binoculars make it easy to view these groups of animals from a distance while they relax on the cooling ice and snow. If you are interested in taking advantage of these favorable conditions, contact us today for last-minute deals.

Bomb-proof Mountain Cayuse Horses for Sale

2009-08-21T14:57:00.000-07:00

With a large variety of different horses at different stages in their development, we always have a few of our bombproof horses available for sale. These horses have been exposed to almost every situation possible in the mountains: wildlife encounters, uneven terrain, crossing rivers, steep slopes, long hours… and they are known for their sure-footedness and calm demeanor. If you are interested in which horses are currently for sale, send us an email (adventures(at)chilcotinholidays.com) or call us (250-238-2274) for more detailed information and pictures. We also have testimonials from out past buyers which we can share with you. Once we know what kind of horse you are looking for, we will be able to match you to the perfect horse for your needs.

A Successful Trip for both Generations

2009-08-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

We sure have had a lot of guests this summer. From honeymooners, to families, to groups of eager girl-guides, we've had the pleasure of welcoming guests from around the world to experience the beauty of the South Chilcotin Mountains with us. One guest from Vancouver had this to say about her trip:

"When planning our family vacation this year, I had several items on my wish-list. I wanted something:
• centered around the outdoors (without involving camping)
• offering a range of activities for different generations/activity levels
• reasonably close to Vancouver
• self-contained, including a kitchen
• large enough to accommodate the kids’ friends
Chilcotin Holidays offered all of this and much more. We arrived after an easy 4 hour drive and settled into the Ranch House. While not fancy, it was extremely comfortable and spacious. Not only could all 11 of us sleep, we could also sit in the living room or eat at the table at one time. It also had the best equipped kitchen I have ever rented.
After settling in, we set off to explore. Once again, our expectations were exceeded. The preparation for our ride was exceptionally thorough – a great comfort to one of our party who had had a frightening experience in the past. The scenery was beautiful and the staff could not have been more gracious.
Throughout our visit, everyone was able to find an activity which suited them. Some spent their time fishing while others chose to relax with a book. We did a strenuous hike and were rewarded with a breath-taking view. We did a pleasant and sedate ride one day and the more adventurous among us did a more challenging ride the next. We had planned to do more but never quite managed to fit everything in. By the time we left, we were already talking about our next visit. I wouldn’t have changed a thing and I’m sure we’ll be back.
My sincere thanks to everyone at Chilcotin Holidays for a great stay!"
L. Duncan
Vancouver

Chilcotin Holidays' Guests enjoy a surprisingly fresh Landscape, despite the forest fires in the surrounding Region

2009-08-15T20:11:00.000-07:00

Although this summer has plagued southern BC with numerous forest fires, we have been fortunate at our location in the South Chilcotin Mountains. Our horse pack and wildlife viewing trips, as well as the ranch based trips all continued throughout June and July, and August has been very successful so far. The forest fires in the hot, dry country around Lillooet have aggravated local town folk and visitors alike. We had one group of guests at the ranch who were literally "stranded", due to road closures on both routes leading to Gold Bridge. However, we used the funds they had paid for the shuttle bus and chartered them their own float plane to assure they made it to their next destination on time.
The sub-alpine and alpine meadows of the Chilcotin Mountains provide a very contrasting landscape to the arid lands of the BC interior. The alpine meadows are heavy with dew each day until well into the morning and host over 150 different species of wildflowers. And even despite the heat wave we've had this summer, don't let the hot afternoons fool you. The mountains will cool down at night, offering relief from the sun's heat, so don't forget to bring your cozy sweater and a pair of warm socks!

“This was one of our best vacations, Dad.”

2009-08-15T19:55:00.000-07:00

We recently had the pleasure of welcoming the Donaldsons on a family vacation at the ranch. Read on to hear what they had to say about their trip. As well, check out some of the BEAUTIFUL photographs Kirk took during their stay. Kirk is a talented professional photographer and you can view the shots on Kirk's website. To see the pictures, go to GALLERY, then RECENT, and then click on the Chilcotin Ranch Horsepacking - Slide Show.
Here is Kirk's testimonial:

Chilcotin Holiday’s Horse Pack Trip
“This was one of our best vacations dad.” Words spoken from my 17 yr old who has done and seen a lot of the world. My 13 yr old was a bit timid, but by the end of the first day, he was relaxed in the saddle. My family had a brilliant time on our week with the staff and horses of Chilcotin Holidays

We all felt the family warmth at the Ranch as soon as we arrived. The place was real; not touristy or staged. I was impressed with how much liberty we had to help out or just hang out. I was also surprised by the mountain terrain we were taken over. The Chilcotin range has a truly unique beauty. The mountains are a blend of colors and forms of South West high desert. They are surrounded by classic rocky mountain alpine peaks and beautiful sub-alpine forests, crisp glacial streams, lakes and lots of wild flowers. We got to see so much more of it on horseback than we ever could have done backpacking.

The horses were fabulous over scree (rocky slopes), up steep sandy trails and through tight switchbacks. When two grizzly cubs pranced toward us across a meadow followed by momma sow, we were very happy to be on horses. The sow stood up, looked across at us and directed her youngsters away at an angle. It was a real treat and a thrill to see these great creatures so close. The guides carry spray and “bear bangers” if things get tricky. We never felt at risk.

Our campsites were located on a mountain stream and a lake. The platform tents had comfortable sleeping mats and plenty of space. The ranch cooks had whole food meals that kept the omnivores and vegetarian very happy. Lunches were packed lunches enjoyed out on the mountain meadows while the horses rested and grazed.

After getting back to the ranch, we had another treat. We all loved going bareback riding. It was so much more comfortable than I expected at a walk, trot or canter. It was a surprise highlight for us all. The staff did a great job coaching us and making it very fun.

I love the memories I have from our family trips. Our week on horseback was one that every family member thoroughly enjoyed, thanks to everyone at Chilcotin Holidays. It will be a treasured time, and one that may just get repeated. I hear the spring flowers are fantastic!

Thanks to the whole gang at Chilcotin Holidays."

Kirk Donaldson

Chester: Carrying a Different Type of Client These Days

2009-07-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

Chester’s second career takes him far away from the Chilcotin Mountains to his new home on Vancouver Island where he’s part of his new partner’s therapy sessions. You could say, he’s like a therapeutic teacher.

Michelle – an outreach worker by profession and animal lover – works with clients suffering from development disabilities, mental health issues, and addiction problems. One of her treatment methods is to take her patients outdoors and bring them close to horses; she calls this extreme outreach and equine therapy. Already having a high maintenance thoroughbred, Michelle sought a calm, stable, and reliable horse that any client could safely interact with. She found this in Chester.

Sight unseen, until the day he slowly backed out of the trailer, Michelle learned of Chilcotin Holidays’ horses through a ferrier. After many emails back and forth, Michelle chose Chester. She wanted a gelding and got exactly what she needed. As Michelle says, “He’s one easy going guy. A nice, solid rugged horse.”

Chester’s still transporting clients, but instead of to the mountaintops of the South Chilcotin Mountains, he’s on flat trail and doing what comes second nature – being calm, reliable, and almost spook-proof. As for Michelle’s clients, they’re each forming a strong bond with him.

As for Chester, he’s learning to like the herd of two that he’s in, compared to being one of 60. Wearing boots rather than shoes, and getting used to Michelle putting garlic and various homeopathic remedies in his feed, is just part of the course these days. According to Michelle “Chester is one happy boy, and a great horse.”

Grizzly Viewing Trip Guest Testimonial

2009-07-12T13:30:00.000-07:00

“The scenic drive from Vancouver to the Chilcotin Holidays ranch boded well, with tantalizing glimpses of mountain glaciers, vast green forests and ice blue lakes.

“We rode straight out to the camp at Spruce Lake, an idyllic setting that was exactly how I’d pictured the Canadian wilderness – a log cabin with snow capped mountains in the background, and fir trees down to the lake in front.

“I was privileged to have one of Chilcotin’s most experienced grizzly viewing guides for my trip, and Russell found us bears on the first ride out – a mother with two cubs. We watched as they grazed up and down the alpine meadow, little troubled by our presence. In fact they browsed so close we had to remind them we were there! Seeing this Grizzly family was magical, a moving experience – and we were lucky enough to view them again the next day, for another peaceful grazing and photo opportunity.

“The Grizzly highlight came in the last viewing evening of my trip, on the night we stayed at an outer camp. We’d been for yet another fantastic ride with stunning alpine views, crossing shale mountain slopes and snow packs, and tracking the prints of a good sized bear up the valley and back. Close to camp on our return we suddenly came across the bear as he rubbed on a tree, making the branches sway violently. At that moment I learned what it means to have your eyes pop out of your head!

“We were able to follow him as he moved from tree to tree to rub, and he did this three or four times before disappearing into the trees. On horseback, the bear was about the same height as us on all fours – an unforgettable sight!

“The Chilcotin horses were fabulous, they were unperturbed by the closeness of the bears and would go anywhere with confidence. They were fit and energetic yet careful and good natured. My own riding confidence increased dramatically in the short time I was there, and riders of any ability would have a great trip. The trail rides alone are a worthwhile experience if it’s not grizzly viewing season! There is so much wildlife to admire in this area; we also saw mule deer, a black bear, mountain goats, wolf tracks, several bald eagles, and the charismatic loon.

“In addition to the incredible wildlife and scenery, my trip was made so memorable by the extensive knowledge, hard work and great company of guide Russell and assistant guide, Nicole. I was woken early to hot tea and a saddled horse, we’d then ride out and return mid-morning for a cooked breakfast, perhaps followed by an afternoon nap or swim in the lake, before early dinner and out for the evening ride. On return it was time for the campfire and marshmallow toasting – a pretty good life!

“This was an amazing experience, and I can’t thank Russell and Nicole enough. I’ve come away from Chilcotin Holidays with good friends and some incredible memories.”
J. Ritchie, New Zealand.

Heavy Rains bring welcome Assistance for Fire Crews

2009-06-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

It's early at the ranch. The day started at 6 am and the quiet ranch begins to come to life. Guides are beginning to tack up and get the horses ready for trip out to Spruce Lake. You can feel the calmness though. It rained heavily over night and the colder temperatures are welcome after the long heat wave. This is exactly what the fire crews needed to win that final battle with the distant fire. The sky is now clear with only a few wisps of cloud - perfect for a day in the saddle.
The horses graze in the meadows and amongst them you can see three does with their fawns having breakfast with the horses. A cow bird is riding the back of "Blue", perched and ready to scurry around the horse's feet to catch any bugs that might have been stirred up.
Early summer is one of the best times to visit the South Chilcotin Mountains. With wildlife to be found around every corner, outdoor enthusiasts better have their cameras ready! The robins are busy pulling worms for their 4 hungry babies in the nest all getting ready to fly.
The Spruce Lake crew has finished saddling horses and are ready to head up and join the rest of the staff and guide school students who are already at Spruce Lake. They'll be busy riding the mountains in the day and mingling around the campfire in the evening.
With all the main roads from Lillooet and Gold Bridge officially re-opened it appears the firefighters have got the situation under control, which will facilitate the arrival of more guests and staff. A celebration is in order to congratulate the hard work of firefighters, and to thank Mother Nature for her help in putting out the fires!

Ranch Update

2009-06-09T22:23:00.000-07:00

As the sun rose over Gun Creek Road near Gold Bridge, the sound of horse bells tinkles through the cool clean morning mountain air. The staff are all hustling about with purpose, tacking up horses for a pack trip up to spruce lake side hills where the flowers area nearing their peak. The Balsam Root is amazing in this area and seeing them in the height of their bloom is a sought after experience.

As the pack trip heads down the trail - a helicopter whirls overhead to monitor a distant forest fire that is cleaning up the forest floor providing valuable wildlife habitat next season.

Next week the wilderness guide school starts!

Interns are quickly learning the ropes, grizzly sightings are happening daily, and guest ranch clients are learning new horse skills. The alpine camps are not yet free of snow but soon the summer sun will melt the last patches of snow, making way for a summer of alpine wildflower blossoms!

Wildfire Update June 6th

2009-06-09T22:14:00.000-07:00

The day began at 5 am. We awoke to a thick smoke from the wildfire that had settled in the valley overnight. Two groups of eight guests and staff loaded into two vehicles and headed up the slim valley to our Leckie camp for a day ride to the spruce lake side hill meadows. The goal was to capture the beautiful alpine meadows filled with Balsam Root blossoms as well as to bring the horses home to prepare for the busy week ahead. By noon, just as the smoke was clearing, the gang reached the alpine. In the end it was a hot summer day. Under clear skies, we rode amidst the blooming alpine flowers. The four bears and the mountain goat spotted was the cherry topping to an already perfect day. Back at the ranch, a light rain was settling the dusty roads, calming the fire, and providing the necessary moisture for new growth in the small burned area.

Careless Campfire Will Benefit Forest Floor Health

2009-06-03T22:42:00.000-07:00

1 June 2009
Gold Bridge, BC
As the forest fire, started by a careless campfire on May 29 in the Lillooet/Squamish forest district burns itself out, Chilcotin Holidays staff only see a small plume of smoke on the horizon amidst the snow-capped mountains. Thanks to the tireless efforts of BC firefighters on ground and in the air, the fire is self-contained and in the process of burning itself out having left nearby communities with the inconvenience of power and phone outages where power lines were damaged.

As owner, and outfitter, Kevan Bracewell of Chilcotin Holidays explains, “Fires naturally occur in almost all ecosystems and can be used as a land management tool.” The carelessness of handling campfires is a threat to people and wildlife each year. Without the immediate response of fire fighters, it could have been a different story in Gold Bridge. As Bracewell explains, “The cycle of nature will soon see revegetation and result in better mule deer wintering ranges in the areas scorched around Mowson and Pearson ponds.”

Once hydro crews get the power back on the grid, Chilcotin Holidays is prepared and looking forward to a busy season with guests arriving locally and internationally for the unique wilderness vacations they provide in BC’s South Chilcotin Mountains.

To book your next wilderness experience, or for more information, contact:
Chilcotin Holidays
Tel: 250 238 2274
Fax: 250-238-2241
Email: adventures@chilcotinholidays.com
Or visit: www.chilcotinholidays.com

Whitecap – Quiet and Willing to do Anything

2009-06-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

Seven years after a car accident cracked her back, Amber is happy to be in the saddle again. Having picked Whitecap from Chilcotin Holidays’ herd of Cayuse mountain horses for sale – those having paid their dues in packing riders and gear to the tops of the South Chilcotin Mountains – Amber has found a calm and trustworthy companion while she gains her balance and core strength back.

Her ferrier loves her. She trailers awesome, making it easy for Amber to take Whitecap anywhere. And she’s responsive to leg and anything you ask of her. Amber points out, “Whitecap just does what she asks of her and is quiet about it.”

Amber’s thankful for the fantastic job Chilcotin Holidays did in training their horses. Often away weeks at a time, she returns to ride Whitecap in the same disposition that she left her horse – calm, stable, and reliable. No surprises – which is just what she wants.

27 May 2009
A. Knickle, Prince George, BC

One Log at a Time

2009-05-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

A handcrafted log cabin will last for generations. Building it yourself is an exciting adventure, but, when reality sets in, it often becomes a frustrating venture if you’re neither familiar with all the steps nor have the time to explore your options. We do more than build log cabins. Chilcotin Holidays incorporates your personal touches from start to finish and we create your dream cabin from the ground up. Having over forty years of experience harvesting logs and building log structures, building your dream home is accomplished in four easy steps. We simply:
1. Design a log cabin to your specifications
2. Build it
3. Transport it to your site
4. Set it up for you
We can create your Canadian log cabin using one of these log species: Engelman Spruce; Lodge Pole Pine; and Douglas Fir. Pre-built log packages are available on-site at our ranch in Gold Bridge, BC. Call or email us today.

SLPBL Opening Soon

2009-05-10T18:06:00.000-07:00

Spruce Lake Park Backpackers Lodge is equipped with everything you need to enjoy an exciting wilderness holiday. Our historic cabin is located on the north end of Spruce Lake with accommodation facilities set amongst the pines. It includes eight 10’x12’ walk about tent cabins with flooring, wood heaters and two single beds each, and a sleeping loft in our lodge cabin. The camp is equipped with two campfire areas, picnic tables, a shower house with hot water, and a corral and tack area to service horses.
During the days you can head out on your own to hike or bike around the area. Or you can just kick-back and enjoy the beauty of the lake. Chilcotin Holidays offers services for those, who would like to have their own gear brought into camp via packhorse. Contact us for more details about our full guiding services.

Gone Fishin'

2009-05-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

One of our guides, Guido, went down to test the waters last week. This is what he had to say about his fishing experience: “We caught the first brook trout of the season down at Pearson Pond last week. The ice on the lake has melted and you could tell the fish were hungry after the long winter. In less than 15 minutes we caught our first big brook trout! As we checked it’s stomach, it was packed full with flies. Later on we saw trout rising to the surface all across the lake. They almost jumped into our boat! It’s too bad we didn’t take any fly fishing gear with us. I’m sure we would have caught a few more “Brookies”! After the ice melts in spring you really get to do some “big time fishing”! They’re hungry and they’ll almost take everything they can get. So it’s a good time to go fishing, as even beginners are guaranteed to be successful. After May we fish the lakes in higher elevations, like Spruce Lake. The ice melts later there, so we will have the same great fishing up there well into summer. At Spruce Lake you can catch huge wild rainbows and bull trout!”. Fishing enthusiasts will be eager to check out Spruce Lake Park Backpackers Lodge! Keep an eye out for the website next month for more details.

Alpine Hiking Season Approaching

2009-05-10T17:58:00.000-07:00

The countdown is on for the opening of the alpine hiking season. We’re eagerly following the receding snowline and already getting anxious to get up those mountains. Our staff will be starting to set up camp in the next few weeks, as the blossoming of the alpine wildflowers in June is just around the corner. We’ll have everything ready to go for you so all you need to do is let the adventure begin. You might want to start wearing in your hiking boots, which is sure to get you in the hiking mood. Keep an eye out for our hiking trip specials and take a moment to review the self-guided hiking trip options available this year.

Spring Bear Viewing

2009-05-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

The bears are back! Ranch staff have spotted quite a few bears already this season. They’ve come out of their wintering dens and are looking for food! The fresh green grass and sprouting shrubs are just what they’re looking for. Ranch staff went wildlife viewing on 1 May, and spotted 31 mule deer, one coyote, six grouse, twelve Californian Big Horn sheep, and four bears (two cubs, a sow and a four year old male). Spring is a great time to see the wildlife! Check out our website for details on our four-day wildlife viewing trips, there are a few spots still available in May.

Easter at the Ranch

2009-05-10T17:52:00.001-07:00

The Easter bunny certainly didn’t forget to visit us as the ranch this year! While there may still have been a bit of snow on the ground, our Easter egg hunt was very successful. We also had fun painting and colouring some very impressive eggs of our own. Our guests from Germany enjoyed some trail riding and we even had one of our past staff, Thuy, join us for the weekend of festivities.

New Season

2009-05-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

Although the horses are hesitant to get back to work after months of R&R, with “Tent City” set up and the first guide school of the season underway, the familiar hustle and bustle around the ranch indicates a new season has begun. Trimming hooves, shoeing, packing, long reining, clearing trail, heading to camp - the long-standing tradition of passing down knowledge about the industry to new, eager wilderness guides is a highlight around the Ranch. Whether you’re taking part in the training or witnessing it during your guest ranch stay, one thing is certain – you’ll experience the magic of the mountains and the wilderness like never before. The horses at the Ranch are eagerly awaiting May 15th. This is their favourite day of the year, because after eating dry hay for 6½ months, they are released up onto the range with abundant fresh grass and the freedom to roam the mountains.

Calm, Stable & Reliable Wins Out at the Wild and Woolly Show

2009-05-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

Magnum’s sturdy build, solid footing, and calm disposition stood out amongst the rather nervous and flighty horses at the Wild and Woolly Show hosted by the Rusty Spurs 4H Horse Club last Saturday. Placing first in Road Hack and Trail – Linda maneuvered Magnum with the utmost of ease in the arenas.
On his first outing from the stable, and into the spotlight of the ring, Magnum easily followed Linda’s queues – both hand and leg signals. With braided mane and tail, he looked the part and went on to place third in Showmanship, fifth in English Equitation, and third in English Pleasure.
According to Linda, Magnum is a fast learner and eager to please. Although jumping seven foot fences at the ranch with ease, his calmness around water, walking over wooden bridges or platforms, over logs, or just about anything else – which is just an ordinary day on our wilderness trails – makes us think he’s a perfect candidate for cross country.
For more information on purchasing Magnum, contact Chilcotin Holidays at (250) 238 2274 or adventures@chilcotinholidays.com.

We miss you, Vera!

2009-03-29T16:53:00.000-07:00

Vera began her stay at Chilcotin Holidays in September, 2007. She started out as a WWOOFer – Willing Workers on Organic Farms and quickly settled in as a core staff member at the ranch. Although she has a college degree in business under her belt, Vera was eager to experience everything that the wilderness lifestyle had to offer.
She made our guests happy cooking up delicious meals and managing the ranch kitchens and then started to work in our office, keeping everyone on their toes! Last spring she took part in our 2-Week Wilderness Guide Training Course and quickly learned the ropes of being a guide. She learned the names and personalities of all of our horses, and guided numerous pack trips throughout the summer. Vera has now taken some time off to do some traveling and we wish her all the best on her future endeavors. Who knows, she might even be back to do some guiding this summer! We’ll keep our fingers crossed!

Trips for Seasoned Hikers and Past Guests

2009-03-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

Over the years at Chilcotin Holidays we’ve had the pleasure of making acquaintance with many people from around the world. We’d like to welcome our past guests back to enjoy the experience again. We have more options to choose from, from the all-inclusive, guided variation you’ve been accustomed to, to a more independent “do-it-yourself” type of trip. With this option you can still take advantage of the services we offer, such as horseback aided transportation of your gear to camp. If you’ve got a group of experienced hikers, you can head out on the trails on your own at your own pace. Our new pricing system for camp rentals and guide services makes this all possible. If you’re interested in finding out more about these options, check out our website. We’d love to go over the options with you in more detail.

Spruce Lake Park Backpackers Lodge

2009-03-29T16:17:00.000-07:00

Spruce Lake Backpacker’s Lodge will be opening May 20th for the summer. Situated right on Spruce Lake, these facilities offer you everything you need to compliment your next “do-it-yourself” hiking, biking or fishing backcountry vacation. Whether you fly in by floatplane, hike, or ride in on horseback with one of our guides, we’ll have everything there for you that you will need to make your trip a success. With a mere 2.5-hour drive from Whistler, this is a popular destination for many outdoor enthusiasts.
Complete with tent-cabin accommodation, food & drinks, a selection of items in our store, trail maps, fishing gear, and boat rentals, Spruce Lake Park Backpacker’s Lodge is open all summer so that you and your friends can enjoy yourselves, without having to worry about bringing out all your gear. This not only saves you money, but also saves you the hassle of packing your own heavy camping equipment, and food that will only weigh you down. Let us do the work so you can play. Contact us for more information! 250-238-2274

Amazing Photos of Wildlife

2009-03-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

We’ve had a few guests here this season for winter predator viewing adventures. Here is one of our favourite shots taken during their trips!
Have some great wildlife viewing photos of your own from one of your trips with us? We’d love to see them! We’ll post some of the best shots next month in our blog. Make sure to send the photo credits along with the pictures! You can email your photos to this address.

2010 Olympic Games Add-Ons

2009-03-29T15:23:00.000-07:00

Staying in a small rustic guest ranch located deep in the wilderness, living close to nature and listening to the call of the timber wolf, riding horses in the snow, snowmobiling through spruce forests to mountain top lookouts, travelling on a wooden sleigh pulled by a team of draft horses through the snow, or cross-country skiing is something you don't want to miss next winter.
Most people can’t imagine how vast their wilderness experience options can be on a ranch holiday at Chilcotin Holidays Wilderness Guest Ranch. We encourage “city folk” to step out of their comfort zone and explore all the activities this environment has to offer. Your winter adventure can range from 4 to 7 days or longer all inclusive of accommodation, food and activities.

Come stay in a wilderness alpine cabin in the mountains so you can experience what it’s like to live in harmony with nature. Leave civilization behind — no noise, interruptions, stress, or pollution. In BC’s untouched wilderness you can cut your own fire wood, or watch while your guide takes care of this, cook over a woodstove, gather water from a glacier-fed stream, and — when the chores are all done — go snowshoe or ski in the surrounding alpine meadows.

Itinerary
Day 1 – Vancouver to Chilcotin Holidays Guest Ranch
The first day of your Guest Ranch Adventure sees you leaving the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver in the early morning, departing at 7am. Travel the historic highways with opportunities to spot wildlife as the road winds itself along famous rivers and pristine lakes. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of mountains and canyons as you leave the driving up to us. After the spectacular 5-hour drive, arrive at our Guest Ranch at noon in time to hear the dinner bell ring. Sit down for a homemade lunch of fresh vegetables and salads, hearty homemade soup, freshly prepared sandwiches and oven baked biscuits.
When you have taken your fill, your guides will take you through a thorough Horse Orientation. We begin by matching you to your horse and getting a good fit with your saddle. Our horses are Mountain Cayuse horses that live and work in the mountains. These unique horses come from the wild herds of the Cariboo-Chilcotin, a mixture of breeds developed over generations. They have a stamina, toughness, energy, intelligence and spirit required to take riders safely into the mountains. Whatever your age or experience, we have just the horse for you.
The Orientation will give you a complete introduction to Western Mountain riding. You can get involved in bridling, saddling and learning how to tie the bowline knot. You will learn how to control your horse by practicing horse sports in the gymkhana, and once all the “kinks” have been worked out, we take you along the forested trails.
After getting your first taste of Western mountain riding, return back to the Ranch in time for dinner, and enjoy the friendly conversations over the dinner table. In the evening, relax in our sunroom or a indulge in a quiet moment on the Ranch deck which faces the rugged Coast mountains, before resting comfortably at the Ranch, ready for the next day’s adventure.

Day 2 to 6 – Ranch Program Options
Western wilderness themed adventure multi-sport is unique to Chilcotin Holidays. Here is the only place where a person can participate in unique cultural and historical western wilderness activities. Choose one or more of the following options:

Learn the art of mountain riding, Trimming horses hooves, Learn to shoe a horse, Floating a horse’s teeth, Ride in the snowHorse sleigh rides for one hour take you back in time
Shooting a Rifle on our target practice range
Snowshoeing the way the pioneers did it, tramping through the old growth forest trail.
Cross country skiing around the ranch trails
Snowmobiling in the Canadian wilderness along forested trails gets you right out there in to the wilderness
Viewing golden eagles or bald eagles as they scavenge for food during the winter is a great way to view these majestic birds up close
Predator viewing safari, stalk one of the most elusive predators in North America
Mountain Lion – Search the fresh-fallen snow for tracks that can lead to rocky viewpoints Here stealth matters when searching out the lairs of the most elusive of our wildlife
Timber Wolf – Sit on the edge of a frozen lake in the early morning and call to a wolf pack When they respond it will send chills down your spine with the excitement of connecting
Enjoy a Canadian First Nation cultural experience at our wilderness guest ranch while sleeping under the stars in a traditional winter house called a kikwilly. Here (similar to the summer tipi), the sleeping areas are around the perimeter walls with a fire in the center serving as a place for cooking and socializing. Come along as we stalk wildlife, just like the native Indians did for thousands of years. We will show you how to identify animal tracks and how to cook over a campfire. Imagine sitting around the campfire at night sharing stories of the wilderness - the mountain lion, the timber wolf, and the traditions of the native people. Play a game of Lahal, a native Indian game for division of assets practiced to this day at native celebrations.

Day 7 – Chilcotin Holidays to Vancouver

On your last day, just when everyone thinks they have done it all we introduce some new adventure! We then take off the saddle for some bareback lessons. And, for something a bit different, test your aim with some biathlon target shooting.

After practicing your marksmanship, enjoy a farewell lunch before departing at 1pm. Reflect on your adventure on the 5-hour drive back to Vancouver and arrive in Vancouver in the early evening.

Photos of Magnum

2009-03-29T15:09:00.000-07:00

We've received such interest in Magnum's progress, that we thought we would post another photos of him and Linda down in Vancouver

Linda's Spring Break Review

2009-03-29T15:00:00.001-07:00

Chilcotin Holidays Guest Ranch is a place of endless opportunities to challenge one’s self. Standing in the snow-covered field with snowmobiles rumbling beside me, I had to convince myself to step out of my comfort shell and try something new. Ripping around the fields on a snowmobile got my adrenaline rushing. I could not get enough of the exhilarating ride on the "Enticer". I surprised myself a second time by driving the monster logging skidder, the first vehicle I have ever driven. I even learned how to use a chainsaw! Being in the mountains full of beautiful, snowy scenery and riding my favourite horses in the company of great friends, rounded out my spring ranch experience. I arrived home and excitedly claimed that I had the most amazing spring break ever, despite doing school homework and ranch chores!
Linda, BC

Update on our Friend Warner

2009-03-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Our friend Warner met his new family last summer and has settled in nicely on Vancouver Island. His new owner, Kimberly, updated us in December: “He continues to be a star as is currently known as ‘Warner the Wonder Horse’! We are having a barn addition built and his stall faces the new construction. He is closely supervising each board going up and I am sure he has picked out his new stall in the addition”.

We just recently asked Kimberly how he was doing and she wrote: “Warner is the best investment I ever made in a horse. He is so rock solid on the trails that I never have a worry with him. His personality in the barn is a delight and he greets me each morning with a whinny...yes, I know he is just looking for food but he also dips his head over the stall wall and waits for his kiss on the nose before he goes to eat.
“He is bottom of the pack here which can be a concern but he has made it all work. He is respectful of the other horses and is slowly ingratiating himself to them and has no issue being out with the herd.
“I am so happy with Warner, I have recommended Chilcotin to two other people that I have come across in the last week that are looking for well trained trail horses. I wouldn't hesitate to take another one of your horses, in fact, I would love to!
I hope to get out for a ride this week and I can get a picture of Warner in his new (used) Wintec Aussie saddle. I managed to find one with the adjustable system to accommodate his high withers.
“As for the barn, we landed up being delayed to snow in mid December. We have our new training area and stalls mostly done but we are waiting for the lumber for the stall walls. I am so happy with the space. It is 40' by 70' and is 16' tall so we will have no issue with ground work with our foals. We made it high enough to ride in although that was not the primary purpose. As well as a training area, it can serve as a great spot for the horses to get out of the rain in the winter.”

We’d love to hear how some of our other horses are dong at their new homes. Please send your updates and any photos you have of our old friends and we’ll be sure to post them next month on our blog.

Good 'Ol Tom

2009-03-29T11:35:00.000-07:00

Tom, a solid built mountain cayuse horse, has seen it all. He’s a little over 15 hands, weighs around 1200 lbs, and has a calm, stable and reliable disposition. He’s a true all-rounder by any definition. Tom’s been eye-to-eye with grizzlies and has never wavered. He’s had a rider on his back running a chainsaw to clear the trail and he didn’t even blink an eye. We’ve trusted him to bring beginner and advanced riders across the mountain peaks following goat trails and never missed a step. This horse is as solid as a rock.
He’s one of the most valuable horses of the herd at Chilcotin. But it’s time for Tom to semi-retire and let the others carry the lead, so he’s ready to turn over a new leaf and take on a new role. He would be the perfect horse for anyone looking for a horse to learn to ride on and would make a great companion for a rider wanting to learn from the best. He will carry you safely over the trails so you can build your confidence as a rider and it won’t take you long to recognize that his patience and unwavering steadiness makes him worth his weight in gold. Tom is now accepting resumes, so please forward to Chilcotin Holidays.
For more information on our other horses for sale, contact us at 250-238-2274.

Ranch Special Events and Promotions

2009-02-26T19:14:00.000-08:00

Chilcotin Holidays is always trying to give you more. Check out our special events and promotions taking place here at the ranch this year. Here's a taste of what's to come:

Spring Break Family Package
Offers the perfect setting to spend some quality time with the kids. There will be something for everyone, including horseback riding, horseback competitions, cowboy / wrangler activities, natural arts and crafts for the kids, and more. Children staying in their parents' room stay for free when booking a week package.
Available: March 8-21, 2009

Easter Weekend Special
A fun and exciting holiday this spring. Leave the stress and hassle of preparing an elaborate Easter dinner at home and let us spoil you with traditional Easter festivities here at the ranch. Package includes: A classic Easter egg hunt, egg painting, "find the lucky egg" for chances to win prizes, horseback riding, horseback competitions, cowboy / wrangler activities, and a traditional Easter turkey dinner with all the fixings.
Available: April 10-13, 2009

Snowmobiling Adventures

2009-02-26T18:11:00.000-08:00

We came to Chilcotin to have a wilderness experience at the end of our holiday in Canada. As well as horseback riding we wanted to do some snowmobiling – having had a taste of it four years previously in New Hampshire.
“You are going to get an experience like no other – and there aren’t many people who have done what you’re going to do tomorrow” said Kevan at dinner, the night before the trip.
Looking out over the snow covered alpine meadow at 6500 feet altitude after an exciting, if challenging trip up the Chilcotin Mountains on skidoos, we realized just what he meant. The scenery was… I can’t find the superlative that does justice to what it was like up there. Snow, fine and powdery, completely untouched since it fell, a clear, bright blue sky, the sun beating down and the vista of the Coastal Range Mountains in front of us– Kevan was right.
Albeit a challenging (well, for me anyway) the trip up, the privilege of being in such a beautiful place was worth it. Thanks to the patience and skill of our guides, Kevan and Guido, we had the experience of a lifetime. Would we do it again? You bet!
Jane and John, England

Finishing School – An Update on Magnum by Linda

2009-02-26T17:57:00.000-08:00

With a personal trainer and maid service, daily grooming, massage, and work out, along with free cleaning service, unlimited supply of food at necks reach, oh and don’t forget the carrot on the pillow - Magnum is eating up all the attention. Finishing school is not so bad and life in the city could not be better!
Magnum’s daily training schedule keeps getting better. Cantering circles was a whole new concept to Magnum when he first arrived but he is now able to canter them with ease and has mastered the art of simple changes. As we ride down the long sides of the ring he learns the shoulder in and haunches in. Magnum moves with easy and comfort. He is lovely to ride.
While we know Magnum can jump those fences at the ranch, jumping in the ring is a little different. Style and ease is what we are looking for. Each week he seems to improve over the jumps, coming in easy, and jumping up and over with good form. We started off small but as he is getting better the jumps are going higher. He is a powerful jumper.
As Magnum’s training continues he is willing to learn and improve. He may have his own thoughts on certain matters, as he is very smart, but convincing him is not too hard especially since he knows he gets his warm bowl of oats after a good work out! I have been really happy with his progress and he seems to love the routine of work and pamper. Magnum and I look forward to updating you again soon!
Sincerely,
Magnum's Personal Trainer and Maid,
Linda

It’s almost Time to dust-off the Hiking Boots!

2009-02-26T16:31:00.001-08:00

Feeling the itch? Dying to polish up and waterproof those boots that have been waiting in the closet for you since last season? Daydreaming about being back in the alpine, breathing the fresh air and taking in those mountain views? So are we! The Chilcotin Holidays crew can’t wait to be back out there guiding you along our alpine trails on your next hiking vacation. Our vast selection of possible camps offers you a wide variety of different holiday scenarios. Whether you are looking for a hard-core, level III trekking experience or would prefer to tone in down a notch and take some time to take in the views, we’ve got something for everyone.

My first Bear Viewing Experience

2009-02-26T15:56:00.000-08:00

“SSSsssshhhhh – quiet! There he is!” Said my guide in a whisper. As we approached the bear on horseback he was so busy eating that it appeared he hadn’t noticed us. We rode up over the ridge and could see the bear in a clearing just ahead of us. Our horses remained calm and unalarmed at the sight of this majestic bear, but I was secretly scared out of my wits on the inside. I was actually pretty close to a real bear, a wild, untamed bear in his own territory. We weren’t in a zoo anymore – this was the real thing! And how amazing the feeling was. I knew my guide was trained and had a riffle with him, just in case.
My heart was racing, I could feel my pulse and in the midst of all the excitement I almost forgot to get my camera out! With an empty 2-GB chip in my camera I was ready to take the pictures I had been waiting to be able to take since childhood. Now that the big moment had finally arrived, I was ready to catch everything “on film”, so to speak. We spent over an hour watching the bear eat, relax, and sun himself, before we had to head back to camp for dinner, but it went by in a flash! I couldn’t wait until the next morning to head out again! I think I might have become a wildlife-viewing addict during this trip! I’ll be back again next year for sure!”
Alison, ON, Canada

Ranch Staff anticipate an early Spring

2009-02-26T15:51:00.000-08:00

Lucky for us here at the ranch our woodpiles are holding out a little longer than in other years. It’s been relatively mild here and we are anticipating an early spring, contrary to the official outcome of this year’s Groundhog Day. That’s good news for you! The abundant variety of wildflowers in the alpine meadows here in the Chilcotin Mountains might even be available for your enjoyment by late May this year. This is a beautiful time of year to book your next pack trip holiday.

Weddings, Family Reunions and other Functions

2009-02-26T15:41:00.000-08:00

Looking for a perfect setting for your next family get-together? Chilcotin Holidays Guest Ranch offers a variety of different options for accommodation, activities and can host beautiful ceremonies, such as a natural outdoor wedding.
If you’re interested in renewing your vows and want a quiet, intimate location to celebrate with your close family and friends, we offer customized packages and can accommodate a variety of different scenarios. Our tastefully decorated rooms and cozy cabins offer a friendly ambiance and authentic western charm. The ranch is situated in the heart of the breathtaking South Chilcotin Mountains and will certainly offer a wonderful, memorable setting for your next family celebration.

Chester to help People in Rehabilitation

2009-02-26T15:35:00.000-08:00

It’s always nice to know that our loyal, hardworking horses have found a wonderful new home to spend the rest of their “retirement” years. Our friend Chester, a slim chestnut gelding, will be remaining in BC, working with Michelle to help her clients on their path of rehabilitation.
Michelle, who already has a horse and works with individuals with physical and mental disabilities, as well as with clients recovering from addictions, said she noticed her clients got really excited about the possibility of going out for a horse ride. So the next step was to find a bombproof horse, who would be patient and remain calm with her clients as they learn the basics of riding.
With years of experience as a gentle, reliable and trustworthy trail riding horse, Chester seemed like a perfect match. We are proud to be sending him off to offer his assistance and wish both Chester and Michelle the best of luck.
For more information on our other horses for sale, email us or call us at 250-238-2274.

The Dude Ranch Trip

2009-02-05T12:34:00.000-08:00

This package allows two or more people to stay in one of our fully equipped, rustic wilderness chalets at the ranch. Included in this package is solely accommodation to allow for maximum flexibility during your wilderness vacation. The accommodation in each of our chalets includes a fully equipped kitchen, washroom, as well as linens and bedding. All you need to bring is your personal affects and you’re ready to go. As far as meals go, you have two options – you can bring your own groceries and do your own cooking in the chalet, or you can dine in the main lodge house for an additional fee. Just let us know and we can make any necessary arrangements.
This package is especially appealing for those who wish to explore the surrounding area on their own. Surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the south Chilcotin Mountains, you can venture out into the middle of the wilderness at your own pace, or if you arrive with your own vehicle you can take a drive to any of the many natural attractions in the area, including the historic mining town of Bralorne, or drive down to Mowson’s Pond for a refreshing dip in the lake. If you wish, you can also participate in ranch activities on an à la cart basis. Our long list of possible add-on activities will give you an idea of all the possibilities available to you during your stay.

The City Slicker Ranch Trip

2009-02-05T12:11:00.001-08:00

Here’s an option for those interested in experiencing a western guest ranch environment and the wilderness lifestyle, without having a set of pre-booked activities, but the flexibility of picking and choosing as many or as few activities as they go. This package includes all meals and accommodation in a room in the main ranch house.
We recommend this package for individuals who want to be able to experience a variety of different activities à-la-cart, as opposed to booking strictly a riding, fishing, hiking, or any other single-activity package. Feel like taking a day off to relax and enjoy the mountain views from the ranch terrace? Or decide that you’d rather go fishing tomorrow than riding? That’s all no problem!
It’s a great way to get a taste of the different wilderness experiences we have to offer or for families whose members have different interests. Our surrounding 5000 km2 operating area has many hidden treasures waiting for you!

The Cowboy Ranch Trip Package

2009-02-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

This is a full, all-inclusive package, which offers guests a real western ranch experience, without having to worry about the hassle of extra costs or charges. You can rest assured that everything is taken care of upon your arrival, so you can just relax and let your guest ranch vacation begin.
Your package will include all meals, which are served in the dining area of our main ranch house, and accommodation in one of our tastefully decorated rooms. As well, you can take part in ranch-based horseback riding along our historic trails, or go on a guided hike through the pristine wilderness. We have plenty of trails to choose from so you have the option of doing half-day or whole-day trips.
Other fun activities included in your package are: bareback riding in one of our pastures, target shooting with a biathlon rifle, and lariat throwing, a skill every cowboy needs, so you can experience as much or as little of the wilderness lifestyle you wish. You will be surprised at how good you can get at these traditional western skills after a couple of lessons with one of our experienced guides. Guests who desire to take part in any of the many ranch activities not included in this package can easily do so. Just take a look at the abundant list of add-on activity options and “pay-as-you-go”.

Guest Testimonial

2009-01-21T15:58:00.000-08:00

“I wanted to share with you my admiration for your team at Chilcotin Holidays. From the first contact with Alison to the last with Frank I was made to feel welcome and enjoyed being in the company of so many people so clearly dedicated to their work and to the support of each other.
Alison was not only accommodating in helping make the arrangements for the holiday I was looking for and unable to find with any other tour operator, but also very professional and efficient allowing me to meet the tight deadlines I was having to work to.
Your two guides that accompanied my group, Josh and Matty were brilliant. Two guys who looked after the needs of the group and who made every effort to get to know each of us. Evenings at the camp were always filled with laughter and helped make the whole experience that bit more memorable.” Edward Palmer, UK

Excellent Ice Fishing

2009-01-21T15:53:00.000-08:00

One of our guides had his father out to visit just before Christmas. The two of them had a fantastic time on the lake down the road, drilling a hole through the ice and setting up their lines for an afternoon of ice fishing together. Their catch was plentiful and we were able to cook up the trout for all the staff and guests that night! Ice fishing is still available for the next few weeks either as a trip of its own or as an add-on to your ranch stay.

Early Bird Booking Discount

2009-01-21T15:44:00.000-08:00

We have a special for those early birds who would like to book a Multi-Day Ranch Based Trip for the month of May or June 2009. This offer is valid for 15% off the price for a party of 2 or more on any ranch based booking of at least 2 nights during May or June. Offer lasts until February 28th, 2009.

Winter Predator and Eagle Viewing

2009-01-21T15:36:00.001-08:00

“What an experience! I’ve never been so close to these animals before!” says Peter, from Germany. During his stay this December he got to witness the flight of soaring eagles and a pack of timber wolves as they scurried across the frozen lake looking for their next meal. We also had opportunities to track the trails of Cougar and Bobcat, which was a real highlight for Peter, who was looking to get a real taste of the Canadian backcountry.

Guest Ranch Vacations

Horses for Sale

Ice Fishing at Pearson's Pond

Teeth floating time!

Horse Exercise at Chilcotin Holidays!

It's Icy in Carpenter Mine!

Frosty Lashes at Chilcotin Holidays!

Pure Wilderness

Hiking in the Chilcotin Mountains

Bareback Ride to Pearsons Pond

Health care at the Ranch

Morning light at the Ranch

Merry Cowboy Christmas

The Coyotes and the Eclipse at Chilcotin Holidays

Winter feed delivered

Ready for the winter

Home sweet home

Day 5 - The Riders Return

Sponsored Ride Day 2 - The Rain Begins!

Sponsored Ride in the Chilcotin Mountains

Chilcotin Holidays' Banff Film Festival Entry

New Heights for our Pack Trips

Wilderness Guide Training

Mantracker Special Pack Trip

Join us on a Summer Pack Trip in the Chilcotin Mountains

Grizzly Viewing Trips

Hike the Chilcotin Mountains

Chilcotin Holidays Guest Ranch Vacation Packages

Flowers, Flowers Flowers

I heard about this place in the Mountains

Horse Pack Trips

Life as a Wilderness Guide

Why People Come From Around The World To Chilcotin Holidays

Natalie's Story - A Guide From Down Under

Thanksgiving in the Chilcotin Mountains

Crawling into a grizzly bear den

Summer's perfect alpine picnic spot

Mantracker Films two new Episodes at Chilcotin Holidays

Grizzly Viewing

Hike the Chilcotin Mountains

Easter at the Ranch

Canadian Biathlon Coach former Chilcotin Holidays Wilderness Guide

Chilcotin Holidays Armature Video Selection Grows

Family Pack Horse Trips become mini Guide School for all Participants

Congratulations Elvie

The Golden Triangle of the Chilcotin Region

Keeping the Tradition Alive - The Girl Guides visit Chilcotin Holidays

Wolf Calling before Dawn

My first Cougar

Fresh start to the new decade!

Spruce Lake Park Backpacker's Lodge a Success!

Are you Spontaneous?

Staff Member turns into ambitious Entrepreneur

Mountain Cayuse Horses - Getting Fat & Sassy at their Summer Retreat

The hot Summer drives Wildlife onto the Glaciers

Bomb-proof Mountain Cayuse Horses for Sale

A Successful Trip for both Generations

Chilcotin Holidays' Guests enjoy a surprisingly fresh Landscape, despite the forest fires in the surrounding Region

“This was one of our best vacations, Dad.”

Chester: Carrying a Different Type of Client These Days

Grizzly Viewing Trip Guest Testimonial

Heavy Rains bring welcome Assistance for Fire Crews

Ranch Update

Wildfire Update June 6th

Careless Campfire Will Benefit Forest Floor Health

Whitecap – Quiet and Willing to do Anything

One Log at a Time

SLPBL Opening Soon

Gone Fishin'

Alpine Hiking Season Approaching

Spring Bear Viewing

Easter at the Ranch

New Season

Calm, Stable & Reliable Wins Out at the Wild and Woolly Show

We miss you, Vera!

Trips for Seasoned Hikers and Past Guests

Spruce Lake Park Backpackers Lodge

Amazing Photos of Wildlife

2010 Olympic Games Add-Ons

Photos of Magnum