Thursday, May 30, 2013

Fly Fishing around Fernie B.C.

Fernie B.C. which is just 14 kms from Island Lake Lodge is one of the top “Dry-Fly” Fishing destinations in the world. The Elk River runs right through town and is full of Westslope Cutthroat Trout and Bull Trout. The Elk holds the largest population of Westslope Cutthroat left on the continent and if you know anything about them, you know they love to eat off the surface. Dry Fly Fishing is considered by many to be the pinnacle of sport fishing...kinda like catskiing deep dry powder is the pinnacle of skiing! You can use a drift boat or walk and wade various sections of this spectacular river and its tributaries. The best months are usually July, August and September. Call to inquire about Island Lake's fly fishing packages. Here are a few images from the area to get you excited about your next fly fishing adventure!












www.islandlakelodge.com 

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Hiking in the Rocky Mountains

Hiking is one of those summer sports that is accessible to everyone and gets people into places that can truly inspire.  Dramatic peaks, quaint mountain creeks, wildflowers and big views are some of the essential experience nature has to offer.  Island lake lodge near Fernie B.C. has been building and maintaining a hiking trail network for a good 20 years.  With 7,000 acres of private land and the dramatic Lizard Range as a backyard the hiking is truly great. There is a nice range of ability levels in the area including the lake trail which is rated as easy and can be done in less then an hour.  At the other end of the spectrum is the Mountain Lakes Trail (Heiko's Trail), which is an all day 20 kilometre adventure and ends at Island Lake Lodge.   Here is a quick breakdown:


LAKE TRAIL   (2 km, 1 hr) Rating: Easy   FIR TRAIL Extension (add 3 km & 1 hr) Rating: Easy
RAIL TRAIL   (3 km, elevation gain 50 m)  Rating: Rail Trail:  Easy.
OLD GROWTH TRAIL (4 km, elevation gain 250m)  Rating: Moderate.
SPINEBACK TRAIL  (3.5 km, elevation gain 530 m, 3-4 hours)  Rating: Advanced
MOUNT BALDY LOOP  (10.5 km, elevation gain 620 m, 4-6 hours)  Rating: Advanced
TAMARACK TRAIL  (8 km, elevation gain 640 m, 5 hrs)  VIEWPOINT (4 km,  elevation gain 200 m, 3 hours) Rating: Moderate to Advanced
MOUNTAIN LAKES TRAIL  (HEIKO’S TRAIL) (22 km, elevation gain 4500 m,  8-12 hours)  Rating: Difficult

Island Lake also holds various hiking tenures in the area including in the Steeples and at Fernie alpine Resort.  A great way to explore and learn about the area is with a guide.  You can hire one for half or full days.  Call Island Lake or check the website for details.  1-250-423-0622  www.islandlakelodge.com


Here are a few hiking photos from around Island Lake:













 

Friday, May 10, 2013

Romance in the Mountains

In winter Island lake is perfectly setup for exceptional catskiing experiences.  During the warm months, the lodge, view, cuisine, spa and ambience seem to lend itself to perfect romantic getaways.  Go for a quiet walk around the lake then dine on the patio overlooking the peaks of the 3 Bears.


Experience the Mountain Romance Package
Two relaxing nights in a deluxe lodge, breakfast in bed and gourmet dinners, a bottle of local BC Bubbly and a chocolate & fruit plate awaits your arrival.  Enjoy full use of our lodge facilities, as well as miles of pristine hiking trails in our remote mountain setting. Perfect for anniversaries and special occasions!
Package price with deluxe accommodation $749.00 per couple.