Latest News

May 18, 2023: Forest Fires in Western BC

While Mistaya and the Wildcat Valley are still under a blanket of snow we are looking forward to a great start to summer hiking season.

Due to a drier than average winter season forest fires have been reported in Western Canada.  Mistaya, is located at high elevation in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The Wildcat valley benefits from natural features such as rocky terrain, glaciers, and bodies of water, which help to reduce the potential impact of fires.  We have always had a fire suppression plan to ensure the safety of all visitors and staff.

Although smoke may travel long distances and weather conditions can change rapidly, Mistaya will continue to operate trips throughout the season, with adaptations made as necessary to account for changing conditions. Historically being at higher elevation gives us clearer sky’s than valley bottom.

May 18, 2023: Kicking Horse Canyon road construction continues find the latest news.

Guests traveling to Mistaya Lodge from the East should be aware of road closures on Hwy 1 due to major construction in the Kicking Horse Canyon.

More information about closure dates and times and alternative routes can be found here:

https://www.kickinghorsecanyon.ca/calendar

If Hwy 1 is closed, you will be traveling to Golden via Hwy 93 and Hwy 95.

November 29, 2022: Winter 2023 is opening soon!

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

Here are some notes about this coming winter.

This summer Mistaya Lodge and Alpine Helicopters had to continue with our full Covid Protocol, including mandatory mask wearing in the helicopters and indoors where we can not distance.  This was due to Covid outbreaks still popping up with out these protocols.  (Believe us we tried!)  We understand that everyone is done with masking and are willing to take the risk.  Unfortunately our staff work for multiple trips in a row, if they get sick then we must shut the lodge down which means it not only wrecks your vacation but it wrecks the vacations of the next few groups.  This will be reassessed often, thank you so much for your patience.

Road construction is continuing:

Guests traveling to Mistaya Lodge from the East should be aware of road closures on Hwy 1 due to major construction in the Kicking Horse Canyon.

More information about closure dates and times and alternative routes can be found here:

https://www.kickinghorsecanyon.ca/calendar

If Hwy 1 is closed, you will be traveling to Golden via Hwy 93 and Hwy 95.

September 29, 2022: Fantastic hiking comes to an end for Summer 2022

Wow, we had a fantastic summer of hiking with clear sky’s, fun guests and tons of flowers.

Thank you to everyone that joined us and to all our staff for making this summer one to remember!

If you are looking to join us next summer things are filling up fast so hit that Book Now button and reserve your space!

This summer Mistaya Lodge and Alpine Helicopters had to continue with our full Covid Protocol, including mandatory mask wearing in the helicopters and indoors where we can not distance.  This was due to Covid outbreaks still popping up with out these protocols.  (Believe us we tried!)  This will be reassessed often.

The BC Health Minister is still encouraging mask wearing in all indoor areas where distancing is not possible.  We air on the side of caution.

Road construction is continuing:

Guests traveling to Mistaya Lodge from the East should be aware of road closures on Hwy 1 due to major construction in the Kicking Horse Canyon.

More information about closure dates and times and alternative routes can be found here:

https://www.kickinghorsecanyon.ca/calendar

If Hwy 1 is closed, you will be traveling to Golden via Hwy 93 and Hwy 95.

May 31, 2022: COVID-19 Updates and Road construction

It has been cool spring here in BC, the snow is very slowly melting.  

The BC Health Minister is still encouraging mask wearing in all indoor areas where distancing is not possible.  We air on the side of caution.

Mistaya Lodge and Alpine Helicopters will continue with our full Covid Protocol including mandatory mask wearing in the helicopters and indoors where we can not distance.  This will be reassessed often.

Road construction is continuing:

Guests traveling to Mistaya Lodge from the East should be aware of road closures on Hwy 1 due to major construction in the Kicking Horse Canyon.

More information about closure dates and times and alternative routes can be found here:

https://www.kickinghorsecanyon.ca/calendar

If Hwy 1 is closed, you will be traveling to Golden via Hwy 93 and Hwy 95.

Mar 16, 2022: COVID-19 Updates

Mistaya Lodge is open and we are having fun in all the snow! There have been changes to the BC government mandates around Covid in the last couple of weeks including taking away the mandatory mask wearing indoors.   The BC Health Minister is still encouraging mask wearing in all indoor areas where distancing is not possible.  

Mistaya Lodge will continue with our full Covid Protocol including mandatory mask wearing in the helicopters and indoors where we can not distance.

The “New Normal” of lodge life. We will keep these rules firm for a while yet!

• All guests and staff are required to be vaccinated and be able to show proof at the helicopter hangar.
• Masks will be mandatory when physical distancing can not be maintained. 
• Meals will be plated
• Lunches will be made for guests.
• Guests will be encouraged to respect physical distancing at all times.
• Singles will have private rooms (additional costs apply, limited availability)
• Private double or family rooms for couples, families, or others in your social bubble

Cleaning Procedures

Mistaya Lodge staff will be increasing the frequency of all cleaning,

• Frequently touched surfaces: handrails, doors, washrooms, sinks, light switches
• Dining areas, lounge area and hallways
• Outhouses and Shower building
• Guests’ rooms will only be cleaned at the end of current guests’ stay and before new guests’ arrival.

Helicopter Travel

• Guests will be required to bring and wear an appropriate, well fitting cotton or disposable mask in the helicopter.   
• Check in at Alpine Helicopters will be handled with new procedures.
• Guests will not be permitted to travel to Mistaya if they are experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms.
• Please stay home if you have a cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19 less than 5 days prior to your trip.
• You will be asked to complete the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment tool prior to your trip and each day of your vacation.

We will need help from all our guests

• Please respect physical distancing with all other guests and staff.
• Please be diligent with hand washing, personal hygiene, wear a mask over your mouth and nose and avoid touching your face.
• Let our lodge staff know if you are feeling sick. We will have a room and outhouse designated for individuals who begin showing Covid-19 symptoms so we can isolate them from others. NO judgments anyone can get sick, we just want to keep everyone as healthy as possible!
• We are all in this together, traveling anywhere at this time everyone must accept the risk that catching covid 19 is a possibility.  

Once we are outside, physical distancing comes naturally along the trail.

Waiver

All guests on a backcountry holiday with Mistaya Lodge are required to sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Assumption of Risk Agreement. This document must be signed by you and witnessed by one of our employees prior to leaving the staging location. By signing this document, you waive certain legal rights including the right to sue should you become involved in an accident. Please read and understand the waiver before you arrive, if you have any questions about the waiver please contact your lawyer or our office before the start of your vacation. Please do not print this waiver – there will be a copy for each guest to sign at the hangar. Mistaya Waivers

Terms of Service – updated with new Covid details

1. All payments are non refundable
2. To confirm your reservation a 25% non refundable deposit must be made.  Final payments are due before May 1 before departure date (summer reservations) November 1 before departure date (winter reservation)
3. If you must cancel your vacation and you or Mistaya are able to find a replacement, we are able to change the name on a reservation with a $100 admin fee.  This is subject to Mistaya approving new guest(s) and their details.
4. Your vacation plans involve helicopters and a stay in a remote area.  Mistaya will not be responsible for delays due to bad weather, snow conditions, wildfires, guest travel delays or government restrictions.  Any additional or unscheduled helicopter flights needed by guests will be at their own expense.  We highly encourage you to purchase Trip interruption, medical and evacuation insurance Uniglobe Travel Link
5. Mistaya Lodge Ltd. reserves the right to cancel any or part of a tour. If we do, all payments will be refunded in full.  Trip delays or cancellations due to events uncontrollable by Mistaya Lodge (Weather, Wildfires, Outbreaks, extra) our terms of service will hold.  Payment in part or in full is taken as agreement of the above terms.
6. IF you develop cold, flu, or COVID symptoms prior to your trip we want you to stay home. In this specific circumstance Mistaya Lodge will refund you 50% of the trip cost. This also applies to guests arriving at the helicopter hangar with symptoms or answering yes to any of the questions on the covid declaration. You will not be accepted to travel to Mistaya.
7. All guests on a backcountry holiday with Mistaya Lodge are required to sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Assumption of Risk Agreement. Mistaya Waivers

Be Kind, Calm and Safe,

David and Cindy

Mistaya Lodge 

Jan 4, 2022: COVID-19 Updates

Let’s play in the snow!  It has been a great snow year so far. Mistaya Lodge is open and will be following guidelines set out by the PHO.  We have updated all aspects of our operation using current COVID-19 information, tools from health experts and government authorities, and Best Practices developed by the Backcountry Lodges of BC Association.

The “New Normal” of lodge life. We will keep these rules firm for a while yet!

• All guests and staff are required to be vaccinated and be able to show proof at the helicopter hangar.
• Masks will be mandatory when physical distancing can not be maintained. 
• Meals will be plated
• Lunches will be made for guests.
• Guests will be encouraged to respect physical distancing at all times.
• Sauna will be closed but the shower stalls open for use.
• Singles will have private rooms (additional costs apply, limited availability)
• Private double or family rooms for couples, families, or others in your social bubble
• Physically distanced dining 

Cleaning Procedures

Mistaya Lodge staff will be increasing the frequency of all cleaning,

• Frequently touched surfaces: handrails, doors, washrooms, sinks, light switches
• Dining areas, lounge area and hallways
• Outhouses and Shower building
• Guests’ rooms will only be cleaned at the end of current guests’ stay and before new guests’ arrival.
• Cleaning supplies will be provided for guests to clean their own private areas.

Helicopter Travel

• Guests will be required to bring and wear an appropriate, well fitting cotton or disposable mask in the helicopter.   
• Check in at Alpine Helicopters will be handled with new procedures.
• Guests will not be permitted to travel to Mistaya if they are experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms.
• Please stay home if you have a cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19 less than 14 days prior to your trip.
• You will be asked to complete the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment tool prior to your trip and each day of your vacation.

We will need help from all our guests

• Please respect physical distancing with all other guests and staff.
• Please be diligent with hand washing, personal hygiene, wear a mask over your mouth and nose and avoid touching your face.
• Let our lodge staff know if you are feeling sick. We will have a room and outhouse designated for individuals who begin showing Covid-19 symptoms so we can isolate them from others. NO judgments anyone can get sick, we just want to keep everyone as healthy as possible!
• We are all in this together, traveling anywhere at this time everyone must accept the risk that catching covid 19 is a possibility.  

Hiking and skiing with us

Once we are outside, physical distancing comes naturally along the trail.

Waiver

All guests on a backcountry holiday with Mistaya Lodge are required to sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Assumption of Risk Agreement. This document must be signed by you and witnessed by one of our employees prior to leaving the staging location. By signing this document, you waive certain legal rights including the right to sue should you become involved in an accident. Please read and understand the waiver before you arrive, if you have any questions about the waiver please contact your lawyer or our office before the start of your vacation. Please do not print this waiver – there will be a copy for each guest to sign at the hangar. Mistaya Waivers

Terms of Service – updated with new Covid details

1. All payments are non refundable
2. To confirm your reservation a 25% non refundable deposit must be made.  Final payments are due before May 1 before departure date (summer reservations) November 1 before departure date (winter reservation)
3. If you must cancel your vacation and you or Mistaya are able to find a replacement, we are able to change the name on a reservation with a $100 admin fee.  This is subject to Mistaya approving new guest(s) and their details.
4. Your vacation plans involve helicopters and a stay in a remote area.  Mistaya will not be responsible for delays due to bad weather, snow conditions, wildfires, guest travel delays or government restrictions.  Any additional or unscheduled helicopter flights needed by guests will be at their own expense.  We highly encourage you to purchase Trip interruption, medical and evacuation insurance Uniglobe Travel Link
5. Mistaya Lodge Ltd. reserves the right to cancel any or part of a tour. If we do, all payments will be refunded in full.  Trip delays or cancellations due to events uncontrollable by Mistaya Lodge (Weather, Wildfires, Outbreaks, extra) our terms of service will hold.  Payment in part or in full is taken as agreement of the above terms.
6. IF you develop cold, flu, or COVID symptoms prior to your trip we want you to stay home. In this specific circumstance Mistaya Lodge will refund you 50% of the trip cost. This also applies to guests arriving at the helicopter hangar with symptoms or answering yes to any of the questions on the covid declaration. You will not be accepted to travel to Mistaya.
7. All guests on a backcountry holiday with Mistaya Lodge are required to sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Assumption of Risk Agreement. Mistaya Waivers

Be Kind, Calm and Safe,

David and Cindy

Mistaya Lodge 

Jun 2, 2021: COVID-19 Updates

Wow, what a great winter we had!  Mistaya Lodge opened for a short, sweet winter 2021 season.  It was so wonderful to see our returning guests, meet new guests and get everyone out to play in the snow.  Thank you to all guests and staff of winter 2021 for being kind, patient and following all travel manners.  We look forward to summer!

Summer 2021 and Winter 2022 reservations are now open!

Mistaya Lodge will be following guidelines set out by BC’s Restart Plan.  We have updated all aspects of our operation using current COVID-19 information, tools from health experts and government authorities, and Best Practices developed by the Backcountry Lodges of BC Association.

Mistaya has reduce lodge capacity to 10 guests this summer.  After a successful trial run this past year this reduced capacity gives everyone a little bit more room to distance.

The “New Normal” of lodge life.

Things will be a little different in and around the lodge this winter as to how we can safely host you.  Hiking should remain the same,  including lunch overlooking the Rocky Mountains.

• Masks will be mandatory when physical distancing can not be maintained
• Meals will be plated
• Lunches will be made for guests.
• The lodge will operate at a lower guest occupancy.
• Guests will be encouraged to respect physical distancing at all times.
• Sauna will be closed but the shower stalls open for use.
• Singles will have private rooms (additional costs apply, limited availability)
• Private double or family rooms for couples, families, or others in your social bubble
• Physically distanced dining and lounging with those outside of your social bubble

Cleaning Procedures

Mistaya Lodge staff will be increasing the frequency of all cleaning,

• Frequently touched surfaces: handrails, doors, washrooms, sinks, light switches
• Dining areas, lounge area and hallways
• Outhouses and Shower building
• Guests rooms will only be cleaned at the end of current guests’ stay and before new guests’ arrival.
• Cleaning supplies will be provided for guests to clean their own private areas.

Helicopter Travel

• Guests will be required to bring and wear an appropriate 100% cotton or disposable mask in the helicopter until after they unload the helicopter then ensuring they maintain a 2m space from staff and other guests.
• Check in at Alpine Helicopters will be handled with new procedures.
• Guests will not be permitted to travel in the helicopter if they are experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms.
• Please stay home if you have a cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19 less than 14 days prior to your trip.
• You will be asked to complete the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment tool prior to your trip and each day of your vacation.

We will need help from all our guests

• Please respect physical distancing with all other guests and staff.
• Please be diligent with hand washing, personal hygiene, wear a mask and avoid touching your face.
• Let our lodge staff know if you are feeling sick. We will have a room and outhouse designated for individuals who begin showing Covid-19 symptoms so we can isolate them from others. NO judgments anyone can get sick, we just want to keep everyone as healthy as possible!

Hiking and skiing with us

Once we are outside, physical distancing comes naturally along the trail.

Waiver

All guests on a backcountry holiday with Mistaya Lodge are required to sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Assumption of Risk Agreement. This document must be signed by you and witnessed by one of our employees prior to leaving the staging location. By signing this document, you waive certain legal rights including the right to sue should you become involved in an accident. Please read and understand the waiver before you arrive, if you have any questions about the waiver please contact your lawyer or our office before the start of your vacation. Please do not print this waiver – there will be a copy for each guest to sign at the hangar. Mistaya Waivers

Terms of Service – updated with new Covid details

1. All payments are non refundable
2. To confirm your reservation a 25% non refundable deposit must be made.  Final payments are due before May 1 before departure date (summer reservations) November 1 before departure date (winter reservation)
3. If you must cancel your vacation and you or Mistaya are able to find a replacement, we are able to change the name on a reservation with a $100 admin fee.  This is subject to Mistaya approving new guest(s) and their details.
4. Your vacation plans involve helicopters and a stay in a remote area.  Mistaya will not be responsible for delays due to bad weather, snow conditions, wildfires, guest travel delays or government restrictions.  Any additional or unscheduled helicopter flights needed by guests will be at their own expense.  We highly encourage you to purchase Trip interruption, medical and evacuation insurance Uniglobe Travel Link
5. Mistaya Lodge Ltd. reserves the right to cancel any or part of a tour. If we do, all payments will be refunded in full.  Trip delays or cancellations due to events uncontrollable by Mistaya Lodge (Weather, Wildfires, Outbreaks, extra) our terms of service will hold.  Payment in part or in full is taken as agreement of the above terms.
6. IF you develop cold, flu, or COVID symptoms prior to your trip we want you to stay home. In this specific circumstance Mistaya Lodge will refund you 50% of the trip cost. This also applies to guests arriving at the helicopter hangar with symptoms or answering yes to any of the questions on the covid declaration. You will not be accepted to travel to Mistaya.
7. All guests on a backcountry holiday with Mistaya Lodge are required to sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Assumption of Risk Agreement. Mistaya Waivers

Be Kind, Calm and Safe,

David and Cindy

Mistaya Lodge 

Jun 1, 2021: Travel To Golden | Hwy 1 Closures

Guests traveling to Mistaya Lodge from the East should be aware of road closures on Hwy 1 due to major construction in the Kicking Horse Canyon.

More information about closure dates and times and alternative routes can be found here:

https://www.kickinghorsecanyon.ca/calendar

If Hwy 1 is closed, you will be traveling to Golden via Hwy 93 and Hwy 95.

Dec 14, 2020: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Updates

The health and safety of our staff, guests and local community is our main concern. We all need to do our part to reduce the spread of COVID-19.  Now is not the time to travel but it is a time to plan ahead!

The “New Normal” of lodge life.

Things will be a little different in and around the lodge this winter as to how we can safely host you.  Ski touring should remain the same,  including lunch overlooking the Rocky Mountains.

• Masks will be mandatory when physical distancing can not be maintained
• Meals will be plated
• Lunches will be made for guests.
• The lodge will operate at a lower guest occupancy.
• Guests will be encouraged to respect physical distancing at all times.
• Sauna will be closed but the shower stalls open for use.
• Singles will have private rooms (additional costs apply, limited availability)
• Private double or family rooms for couples, families, or others in your social bubble
• Physically distanced dining and lounging with those outside of your social bubble

Cleaning Procedures

Mistaya Lodge staff will be increasing the frequency of all cleaning,

• Frequently touched surfaces: handrails, doors, washrooms, sinks, light switches
• Dining areas, lounge area and hallways
• Outhouses and Shower building
• Guests rooms will only be cleaned at the end of current guests’ stay and before new guests’ arrival.
• Cleaning supplies will be provided for guests to clean their own private areas.

Helicopter Travel

• Guests will be required to bring and wear an appropriate 100% cotton or disposable mask in the helicopter until after they unload the helicopter then ensuring they maintain a 2m space from staff and other guests.
• Check in at Alpine Helicopters will be handled with new procedures.
• Guests will not be permitted to travel in the helicopter if they are experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms.
• Please stay home if you have a cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19 less than 14 days prior to your trip.
• You will be asked to complete the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment tool prior to your trip and each day of your vacation.

We will need help from all our guests

• Please respect physical distancing with all other guests and staff.
• Please be diligent with hand washing, personal hygiene, wear a mask and avoid touching your face.
• Let our lodge staff know if you are feeling sick. We will have a room and outhouse designated for individuals who begin showing Covid-19 symptoms so we can isolate them from others. NO judgments anyone can get sick, we just want to keep everyone as healthy as possible!

Hiking and skiing with us

Once we are outside, physical distancing comes naturally along the trail.

Waiver

All guests on a backcountry holiday with Mistaya Lodge are required to sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Assumption of Risk Agreement. This document must be signed by you and witnessed by one of our employees prior to leaving the staging location. By signing this document, you waive certain legal rights including the right to sue should you become involved in an accident. Please read and understand the waiver before you arrive, if you have any questions about the waiver please contact your lawyer or our office before the start of your vacation. Please do not print this waiver – there will be a copy for each guest to sign at the hangar. Mistaya Waivers

Terms of Service – updated with new Covid details

1. All payments are non refundable
2. To confirm your reservation a 25% non refundable deposit must be made.  Final payments are due before May 1 before departure date (summer reservations) November 1 before departure date (winter reservation)
3. If you must cancel your vacation and you or Mistaya are able to find a replacement, we are able to change the name on a reservation with a $100 admin fee.  This is subject to Mistaya approving new guest(s) and their details.
4. Your vacation plans involve helicopters and a stay in a remote area.  Mistaya will not be responsible for delays due to bad weather, snow conditions, wildfires, guest travel delays or government restrictions.  Any additional or unscheduled helicopter flights needed by guests will be at their own expense.  We highly encourage you to purchase Trip interruption, medical and evacuation insurance Uniglobe Travel Link
5. Mistaya Lodge Ltd. reserves the right to cancel any or part of a tour. If we do, all payments will be refunded in full.  Trip delays or cancellations due to events uncontrollable by Mistaya Lodge (Weather, Wildfires, Outbreaks, extra) our terms of service will hold.  Payment in part or in full is taken as agreement of the above terms.
6. IF you develop cold, flu, or COVID symptoms prior to your trip we want you to stay home. In this specific circumstance Mistaya Lodge will refund you 50% of the trip cost. This also applies to guests arriving at the helicopter hangar with symptoms or answering yes to any of the questions on the covid declaration. You will not be accepted to travel to Mistaya.
7. All guests on a backcountry holiday with Mistaya Lodge are required to sign a Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims and Assumption of Risk Agreement. Mistaya Waivers

Be Kind, Calm and Safe,

David and Cindy

Mistaya Lodge