Guest Ranch Vacations

Spruce Lake Park Backpacker's Lodge a Success!

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 03:24:00 +0000

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?

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 01:51:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 22:46:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 22:11:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 03:21:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 21:57:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 21:18:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 03:11:00 +0000

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.”

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 02:55:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:36:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 20:30:00 +0000

“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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 16:35:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 05:23:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 05:14:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 05:42:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 03:04:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Mon, 11 May 2009 01:09:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Mon, 11 May 2009 01:06:00 +0000

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'

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Mon, 11 May 2009 01:03:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Mon, 11 May 2009 00:58:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Mon, 11 May 2009 00:55:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Mon, 11 May 2009 00:52:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Mon, 11 May 2009 00:46:00 +0000

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

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Sun, 10 May 2009 19:43:00 +0000

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!

adventures@chilcotinholidays.com (Chilcotin Holidays) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 23:53:00 +0000

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!