YOU ASKED, WE ANSWERED
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Powder Ridge Catskiing?
We are adjacent to Granby Provincial Park in the Monashee Mountain range. Our lodge is a 3-hour drive or 25-minute heli flight from Kelowna, BC. Our lodge is situated at 1800m (6000’).
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes. All guests must agree to our Release of Liability Waiver before booking a trip with us and provide a wet signature on arrival.
What is included in package prices?
Pricing includes skiing and snowboarding with our certified guides, all safety equipment, accommodation, all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, emergency medical and evacuation insurance and round-trip ground transportation to and from Kelowna Airport to our staging area.
What is NOT included in package prices?
Round trip transportation to and from lodge, ski/snowboard rentals, alcohol and retail purchases. Any additional purchases will be added to your final invoice and paid for upon check-out.
What is the booking policy?
To confirm your reservation a 25% deposit is required before May 1st, 50% by May 1st with the balance due on September 15th. Trips booked after September 15th must be paid in full. We accept most major credit cards, EFT and wire payments, and e-transfers. Please read our “booking and cancellation policies” for detailed information
What is the refund and cancellation policy?
Your initial 25% is non-refundable. If we receive a cancellation 120 days prior to your arrival, you will get a full refund minus your 25% booking fee per seat cancelled if we are able to resell your spot. If we are unable to resell your spot you will not receive any refund. Cancellations within 120 days of your trip date are 100% non-refundable. Please read our “booking and cancellation policies” for detailed information.
How much snow does Powder Ridge receive annually?
Approximately 400 inches (1016 cm) of snow.
How do I get there?
Fly or drive to Kelowna International Airport, and we take care of the rest! See getting here.
What time should I arrive at Kelowna Airport?
Our shuttle departs at 1pm sharp from the airport. If you are driving yourself, you MUST be at the staging area no later than 4pm.
Can I drive there?
Not recommended. The road is very rough and a 4×4 vehicle is essential. If you do choose to drive to our staging area, click here for directions.
What if I am late?
Guests who miss their scheduled departure times from Kelowna will be charged a $250 late fee without exception. In addition to the late fee, late guests may be responsible for extra costs incurred to get up to the lodge.
What time will I be back in Kelowna at the end of the trip?
You can expect to be back in Kelowna around 7pm. We advise you to fly out the following day after your trip.
What level of skier or snowboarder do I need to be?
You must be at minimum an intermediate, keen skier or snowboarder who is comfortable in powder, tree skiing and in varied weather conditions. There are no groomed runs. We do our best to match individuals in groups that have similar abilities.
What should I bring?
Bring all your own outerwear including goggles, helmet and winter walking boots and ski clothes that are suitable for all conditions and temperatures. You may want to bring casual clothes and slippers/shoes for the lodge.
Bring your ski/snowboard boots – we recommend that you take them on the airplane with you as carry-on luggage. Powder skis/boards if you own them, otherwise you can rent ours. We provide ski poles with fat baskets for guests who rent skis. Any medications you take or may need. Bring your passport if crossing the border.
Do I need to bring my own safety equipment?
Absolutely not. You must use our gear. We provide beacons, transceivers, backpacks and shovels that are all consistent to ensure the safest experience possible.
Can I rent skis or snowboards?
Yes, we have a variety of powder skis and snowboards for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests can rent skis, poles, or snowboards at the lodge. YOU MUST BRING YOUR OWN BOOTS. Please request your equipment when you book your trip, as sizes and quantities are limited. Ski and snowboard rentals are $50 per day.
How many runs will I ski?
We will ski as many runs as the ability of the group, the weather, and daylight allows! On most days this amounts to seven to twelve runs per day and about 12,000 to 18,000 vertical feet. We try to give our guests a full ski day – about 7 to 8 hours. The ascending ride in the snowcat provides time for you to reflect, relax, and catch your breath. You are more than welcome to sit a run out if you find you need more recovery time.
What are the runs like?
Our runs average 800’ – 3000’ in length. Each run is different, allowing for a variety of styles. Our daily ski program considers group ability, snow and terrain conditions. We offer a variety of tree skiing, mellow open powder zones, and for those who are super keen, we can expand into steep and deep pillows and chutes.
Is there internet or phone service at the lodge?
We provide internet access via Starlink. We do not have cell coverage at the lodge, but you can use Wi-Fi calling or other apps. We encourage guests to leave work behind and indulge in the backcountry, so keep screen time to a minimum when at the lodge.
Currency
All currency is in Canadian dollars (CAD). Once you arrive at Powder Ridge, all expenses at the lodge can be added to your account and charged to your credit card on file (including tipping). If you prefer to tip in cash, Canadian or US currency is accepted. *Note – out of country visitors qualify for a refund on any Goods and Sales Tax (GST) which they paid while in Canada
Is it customary to leave a tip for the guides and staff?
Tipping is customary in this industry and greatly appreciated by our staff.
What is the vibe?
We want to make you feel at home away from home. Guests can expect an intimate setting, with beautiful mountain views, amazing food and great people. We like to have fun, but also ask that we respect all guests when it comes to getting late at night.
What certifications do your guides have?
All our guides are certified with ACMG (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides) or CSGA (Canadian Ski Guide Association), and Wilderness First Responder, CAA (Canadian Avalanche Association).