2025 UPDATE BELOW.
To sum it up in one word, spectacular! From the minute I got off the helicopter I was in awe of the surrounding views and the work that went into creating the chalet that was the base for my 4 day stay. There is literally absolutley nothing to complain about. The staff is amazing. Nicoline just never stops whether it be cooking amazing meals to ensuring that everyone is comfortable or planning the incredible amount of logistics required to operate a chalet of this quality that is supplied strictly by helicopter. The guides were equally amazing. They planned hikes that met the skill and endurance of all of the guests and allowed for groups of equal ability to go their own way with a guide. They are all very knowledgeable about the area, the wild flowers, wild life and the history of the chalet and its founders. They also provided tips that taught me (Inexperienced hiker) how to conserve my energy for the elevation changes and distance. The rooms are very comfortable , the bedding warm and welcoming and having a shower in the chalet with hot and cold running water at the end of a long day of hiking was the icing on the cake. All of the food including the snacks and lunches that were provided were fantastic. Do your self a favour and book a stay at the chalet you will not be disappointed, it is one of those life experiences that will stick with you forever. Thanks to everyone at the Selkirk Mountain Experience it was incredible! See you again next year.
2025 UPDATE.
We were fortune enough to spend another 4 days at the chalet this year. We had amazing weather, no rain and a very comfortable temperature for alpine hiking. Carl cooked up a storm. (The food is amazing!) We were treated to a great late season display of wild flowers and several visits from the always curious goats. The chalet is as warm and welcoming as always and is so well cared for. All of the staff were amazing and the guides are everything you would ever want in a guide. Once again, thanks for having us. A truly spectacular place run by...
Read moreThe company's name "Selkirk Mountain Experience" was well chosen. You will have an incredible experience in the mountains surrounding this lodge.
I have only hiked at SME and have done so 6 times over the past 26 years. My most recent trip included 13 family members over 3 generations. Priceless family memories were created.
I have been to several other backcountry lodges, but SME is still my favourite for many reasons, including: The lodge is family owned & operated and that makes a big difference. Ruedi and Nicoline have created a paradise in these mountains. The lodge can only be accessed by helicopter and the maximum lodge capacity is about 20 like-minded guests. No day-trippers. The 80 km of trails were well designed and offer hikes for all levels of ability. The qualified hiking guides are knowledgeable, friendly and maintain regular communications with the lodge to help ensure guest safety. The food is outstanding. The scenery is amazing - mountains, glaciers, rivers, waterfalls, wildflowers, wildlife and sunsets.
Words cannot describe SME. Photos come closer, but still fall short. You really need to experience Selkirk...
Read moreHad an absolutely epic week at SME!! We did the Classic Program and they delivered everything that was promised and more… big days of touring, fresh lines of powder, world class guides who were safety conscious, knowledgeable world class professionals and also tons of fun to be with. Thank you Florina, Shep and Tyler! And bonus that we saw a wolverine and got to explore the ice cave. Back at the lodge, the hospitality and food were incredible. Never would I have expected such a high level of culinary excellence in the backcountry. Every meal and after-ski snack was just mind blowing. Karl is a magician in that little kitchen and sent me home inspired to up my cooking game.
SME Classic Program is 100% FOR YOU if you’re super fit, can ski any line and want to put in long, hard days. That’s what I came for. That’s what I got. I would NOT recommend this for amateurs looking for their first backcountry touring experience. Given the group dynamic and level of general participant, there is a high expectation for ability and willingness to put in long days. Stats for the week were 6.5 days, 45 hours on skis, 35.5k gain, 64...
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