Explore the Wilds: Running Holiday in British Columbia, Canada

Simply put, if you love adventure in the great outdoors then British Columbia is a must-visit. Our adventure takes place in the Bella Coola Valley, an area of BC as yet undeveloped by mass tourism where true wilderness can still be found. We will run seldom-visited trails, float pristine rivers, spend some time in canoes and floatplanes too, take in awe-inspiring views and relax with great food and genuine local hospitality. Those who join us will be part of a very unique style of trip to this very special area.

The trip price includes pre-trip communication & guidance, a flight from YVR to Bella Coola on arrival day, a flight back to YVR on departure day, 7 nights accommodation, all meals from lunch on the first day until breakfast on the final day, 4x4 transportation, drivers, experienced trip leaders, local logistics team, 7 organized runs and hikes, wildlife viewing on a guided river rafting trip, canoe rental, most camping gear, wilderness permits, floatplane flights in and out of camp and team swag. In short, just about everything is covered from the moment you land until the moment you leave!

The cost does not include your transport to/from Vancouver International Airport, a sleeping bag for the 2 camping nights (please bring your own, as well as an inflatable pillow if you wish), alcohol or tips.

The flight is on a 19 seater propeller style plane. It is run by Pacific Coastal, a commercial airline who are the leading provider of regional flights around coastal BC. The flight lasts just over an hour and - if you get some breaks in the cloud! - affords spectacular views of the Monarch Icefield and surrounding mountain ranges.

These flights arrive/depart from the South Terminal, which is separate from the International Terminal; you should allow a minimum of 3 hours between arriving on an international flight and departing on the group flight (which means arriving in Vancouver one day early for most everyone!). Barring any major weather issues you should have no problem flying home the afternoon or evening of the final day:

Week 1 Group Flight Info:
July 14: Departing YVR 9:30am
July 21: Arriving YVR 12:46pm

Week 2 Group Flight Info:
July 23: Departing YVR 9:30am
July 30: Arriving YVR 12:46pm

All routes are adjustable in terms of distance and plans will be tweaked according to the ability mix of the group. Daily maximums are listed on the itinerary and there is no time or pace pressure, though there will be occasions where we require runners to stay in groups (and sometimes hike rather than run) in the name of wildlife safety. While some hiking is to be expected (and sometimes required), we ask that participants arrive prepared for trail running and rugged terrain.

Keep in mind that many people end up running quite a bit more during our trips than they would at home - when running is your only responsibility for the day, you'll be amazed at how much more you can do!

Most runs will feature a mix of single track trail (usually technical) and jeep track through old growth forests or open high alpine environments. Though we will never be at any significant altitude, a number of the runs include a fair amount of climbing and descending, more than the average runner typically does at home (see itinerary for details). Those who typically run only roads or flat trails may find the terrain challenging, but the scenery more than makes up for it - there is never a reason to rush, and no pressure to go faster than what you’re comfortable with. The point is to enjoy your surroundings! Though we will be on established trails, please be comfortable with and excited about the idea of remote wilderness.

The time of day will vary depending on where we are, where we’re headed and also weather conditions. We mostly plan for mid-morning runs (after breakfast and before lunch), but there is always a chance that weather or other logistical considerations could result in an afternoon run. The key is to just relax and roll with it – it’s not about “getting it in,” but rather about exploring a brand new place each day!

The days are primarily built around lots of time out on the trail, but the adventure also includes a river float with an expert raft guide and biologist, canoe paddling (up to a total of 7 miles on our camping day will get you to/from the run and to/from Hunlen Falls!), two spectacular floatplane flights in and out of camp and plenty of recovery time to enjoy hearty meals, cold beverages & big views from our accommodation or campsite.

Non-runners are discouraged from this trip as we occasionally need to keep participants in groups (primarily in spots where chances of a bear encounter are higher), and there are not many alternate diversions in the area for people who aren’t taking part in trail time. Strong hikers should be fine, but please contact us prior to signing up to discuss whether this trip is a good fit.

The first three nights are spent in a modern local lodge with welcoming hosts, cozy rooms, great gathering spaces, a hot tub, a sauna, gourmet home-cooked meals and spectacular views from the back lawn. We’ve got the whole place to ourselves!

The next two nights are spent camping at an established but remote lakefront campsite. The group will be housed in a mixture of rustic cabins & tents (communal accommodation - guides will assign cabin/tent spots as we deem best given the group mix, so please be adaptable), and all food & supplies will be delivered by float plane. There is a clean long-drop composting toilet and no shower (though a pristine lake is right there for anyone who wants to rinse off!).

The trip finishes with the final two nights spent in cozy, classic log cabins (double occupancy) at a lakeside lodge resort featuring all necessary creature comforts - warm beds, hot showers, home-cooked meals, panoramic views and wonderful local hospitality.

Bella Coola’s inland position means that it is typically drier and warmer than much of coastal British Columbia, and July is typically the driest and warmest of all the months. You can expect highs around 70F/21C and lows around 55F/12C. Rain is always possible and you should pack in anticipation of chilly, wet conditions, but nice sunny days are the norm.

No. For the raft trip you will have a paddle mostly for a bit of active engagement - it’s primarily an easy float, and the guide will handle any steering that needs to be done. For the canoeing, we will be using 2-person canoes on a calm alpine lake. Basic instruction will be given, life jackets will be provided, everyone will paddle in pairs and everyone will get where they’re going... some faster than others!

The Bella Coola Valley is right in the middle of the “Great Bear Rainforest” and is home to both black and grizzly bears. There is a good chance you will see a variety of wildlife on the trip, but we will take a few sensible precautions to ensure minimum likelihood of any negative interaction. Runners will be required to carry a small bell and bear spray (both provided) and will receive instruction from a local wildlife expert on arrival day. The time of year chosen, plus the trails and terrain chosen, plus some sensible choices as a group mean there is a low likelihood of encountering a bear. Safety is a top concern, and if the guides deem any particular trail or area unsafe due to wildlife, weather or general trail conditions they will make necessary adjustments to the plan (ie switching trails, requiring people to run/hike in pairs or small groups, etc. Please be flexible and adaptable in this regard).

The most threatening creature that you're likely to encounter is the mosquito - and all of her friends! Don't forget those pants and long sleeve layers.

Just a sleeping bag, and an inflatable pillow if you wish (though a down jacket works quite well too!). Everything else will be supplied at our wilderness camp, and your gear will be transported to the camp for you by float plane.

For the first three nights, yes! The first three nights are spent in a nice lodge with a limited mix of single, queen & twin rooms available. Please indicate your preference when you register, and we will assign rooms in the order of your registration. Though we hope to accommodate all requests, please note that a single room is not guaranteed, especially if you’re one of the last people to sign up!

Single sleeping arrangements are not available at the campsite (the group will be mixed between rustic cabins and a few tents; arrangements will be at the guides’ discretion) nor at the Nimpo Lake lodge where we spend the final two nights - everyone will be housed in comfortable double occupancy cabins.

Breakfasts at the lodges are fresh, substantial continental-style affairs - eggs, bacon, cereals, yogurt, fruit, pastries, bottomless coffee, etc. Camp breakfast offers plenty of options as well - oatmeal, granola, fresh fruit, egg scrambles, toast and plenty of coffee. Lunches will generally be picnic-style or packed for taking on the trail - expect sandwiches, fruit, nuts and some sort of dessert. Dinners at the first lodge will be multi-course, chef-prepared meals with a focus on gourmet, locally sourced ingredients. Camp dinners will be prepared by our team - think grilled salmon, salads, potatoes and of course some s’mores. Dinners at the second lodge are homestyle and hearty, prepared by the staff there.

Most special diets - vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free - can be accommodated, but if you require a combination of special requirements please check with us before signing up so that we can ensure that this trip is a good fit for you.

We will travel to and from trailheads / accommodation using a mix of 4-passenger 4x4 Jeeps or pickup trucks and 12-passenger vans. The drive distances on this trip aren’t too far, but there are some very rugged roads at times - be ready for some slow, bumpy rides!

Please note that this trip will have less vehicle run support than you may be accustomed to due to lack of road access along many of the trails - you’ll be responsible for carrying your water, extra layers, etc. The guides will of course advise you each evening about what to pack for the following day.

We’ll provide a detailed packing list after you sign up, but do note that trail shoes, a hydration pack with at least 1.5L water storage and room for extra layers/snacks, a waterproof rain jacket and a sleeping bag is required. A smaller capacity hydration pack is okay if you bring along a water filtration method that you can carry on the trail (such as a Steripen or squeeze filter).

Your entire trip will be spent with drivers and guides who will go above and beyond to create an unforgettable experience for everyone. Although tips are never expected, they are always appreciated and completely at your discretion. Any group gratuities will be split evenly amongst the team.