The alarm goes off early and honestly, you won't mind. We'll head over to the Alpine Helicopters hangar in Golden at 7:00 am for a safety briefing and baggage check before lifting off over the Purcell Range. The 15-minute flight to the Purcell Mountain Lodge is an experience in itself.

Once we land, everyone will check into their rooms, sit down for breakfast, and then head out with our guides for an orientation hike to get a feel for the terrain and the trails around the lodge. Cocktail hour and appetizers on return, followed by our first three-course dinner together at the lodge.

Note: Prior to boarding the Helicopter, you will be required to sign Purcell Mountain Lodge's liability waiver. Please view their waiver here prior to signing up for the trip.

Coffee on the deck at 6:30, plated breakfast at 8:00, and out the door by 9:30. Our certified mountain guides will split the group based on pace and how much of a challenge you're looking for, so whether you want a big day or a more relaxed one, there's an option for you. We spend the full day out in the mountains...moving through dramatic terrain, taking in sweeping views during lunch, and covering ground that most people will never see in their lifetime. We will be back at the lodge in the late afternoon for cocktail hour and appetizers on the veranda, sauna sessions, a gourmet three-course dinner, and conversation around the cozy fireplace.

Rooms will be vacated by 6:45 am, but not before one last breakfast at the lodge. The first helicopter departs around 8:30 am, six guests at a time. As we lift off, we get one final look at the Purcell Range, the headwaters of the Columbia River, and the town of Golden. All flights are typically complete by 10:00-10:30 am, weather permitting. From Golden, we board our private shuttle back to Calgary together, arriving mid-day. We'll drop everyone at the airport for evening flights home.