It’s not just about the skiing…
Beyond the Slopes: Après-Ski Activities at Great Bear Heliskiing
At Great Bear Heliskiing, the adventure doesn’t end when you leave the mountain. In fact, the après-ski experience is just as essential to your trip as the skiing itself. Perched in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest, our family-run lodge offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unique après-ski activities. Whether you’re unwinding in a cedar hot tub or gearing up for some friendly competition, the time after your ski runs is designed to enhance your experience and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
In this blog, we go beyond the slopes, highlighting the après-ski offerings that make a stay at Great Bear Heliskiing truly unforgettable.
From the Slopes to the Lodge
After a day spent carving through some of the best powder in the world, what better way to unwind than by returning to a lodge designed for comfort and relaxation? At Great Bear Heliskiing, the transition from the slopes to après-ski is seamless and designed to help guests relax and recharge.
As your helicopter touches down at the lodge, the day’s adrenaline starts to fade, and the focus shifts from skiing to unwinding. Guides often check in with guests and give a “one- or two-run warning” before the journey back, signaling that the day’s adventure is nearing its end. The flight back to the lodge is usually a quick and quiet one, as most guests are ready to embrace the warmth and comfort of the lodge after a day of intense skiing.
Once back at the lodge, guests are welcomed with a daily cocktail feature, expertly crafted by the talented bar staff. Whether you’re in the mood for a crisp gin and tonic or something more festive, the cocktails reflect the spirit of the region. Along with your drink, warm après-ski snacks are served to keep the energy up and add a comforting touch after a day in the mountains.
Unwinding in Style
One of the highlights of the après-ski experience at Great Bear Heliskiing is the cedar hot tub, crafted by Forest Cooperage. This expansive hot tub offers the perfect place to soak your muscles while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. The rich, earthy scent of cedar fills the air, adding a natural touch to the experience.
For those who prefer a more traditional relaxation option, the wood-fired cedar sauna is an excellent choice. The heat and quiet serenity of the sauna help relax even the most tense muscles, offering a chance to rejuvenate before the evening activities begin.
For guests seeking a more invigorating experience, the ice plunge is a true test of courage and refreshment. After soaking in the hot tub or sauna, taking a quick dip in the cold plunge is the perfect way to refresh the body and mind. It’s a rejuvenating experience that leaves you feeling invigorated and ready to enjoy the evening ahead.
To top off your relaxation, Great Bear Heliskiing offers 60-minute massage treatments provided by registered massage therapists (RMTs). These expert massages focus on relieving the strain of a day spent skiing, targeting sore muscles and restoring your body to its optimal state. Whether you opt for a deep tissue massage or a gentler approach, this service adds an extra layer of luxury and care to the après-ski experience.
Adventure Beyond Relaxation
For those who want to stay active and explore the area even after skiing, the lodge offers a gym to work out and stay fit. For a more scenic activity, hiking trails around the lodge allow you to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of your surroundings. These trails provide an opportunity to take in the untouched wilderness that surrounds the lodge, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
If you’re looking to add a little friendly competition to your après-ski experience, the lodge offers laser tag and horseshoes. Laser tag is an exciting way to get your adrenaline going once again, with high-energy battles that bring guests together for fun and camaraderie. For a more laid-back activity, horseshoes offer a relaxed but competitive way to enjoy some outdoor fun in the fresh mountain air.
If you’re in the mood for some light-hearted entertainment, the lodge also has a karaoke machine. It’s the perfect way to let loose with friends or fellow guests, belting out your favorite songs and enjoying some laughs after a day on the slopes.
Dining and Drinks
No après-ski experience would be complete without exceptional food and drinks, and Great Bear Heliskiing delivers both in abundance. The lodge’s culinary offerings perfectly complement the rugged beauty of the surroundings, elevating the après-ski experience and ensuring that guests leave feeling fully satisfied.
Our lodge features an impressive wine cellar with more than 1,000 bottles, focusing on some of British Columbia’s best wines. This ever-evolving selection is complemented by a few select international bottles, ensuring guests have access to top-tier wines from around the world. The lodge’s cocktail menu is equally impressive, with mixologists creating imaginative drinks using local ingredients from nearby BC distilleries such as Sherringham and Longtable.
For guests who appreciate a fine spirit, the selection of whiskeys—featuring everything from Canadian classics to rare scotches like Bowmore and Lagavulin—offers something for every palate. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or want to explore unique local creations, the bar at Great Bear is a perfect place to kick back and enjoy a drink after a day on the slopes.
At Great Bear, dining is an integral part of the après-ski experience. The chefs are committed to creating dishes that reflect both the region’s bounty and global flavors. Meals are prepared with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh produce from the Bella Coola Valley and meats from nearby North Vancouver. Guests can expect a menu that blends creativity with the best the region has to offer. From hearty meals to lighter options, the cuisine is designed to satisfy every craving after a day of skiing. Additionally, the lodge’s commitment to excellence ensures that every dining experience is an event, whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner or a more elaborate feast.
A Whole Vibe
The warmth and hospitality of our family-run operation creates an atmosphere where you feel like part of the family. It’s an environment that fosters connection, relaxation, and adventure, making every moment of your stay memorable. So, while the skiing at Great Bear Heliskiing is world-class, it’s the après-ski offerings that truly elevate the experience, ensuring you leave with both cherished memories and a refreshed spirit.