Chilko Lake, British Columbia, Canada
Seldom visited and largely untouched, the Chilcotin is like a rare gem.
Few people have discovered it, but once discovered, it is rarely forgotten. There are very few areas in the world as beautiful to explore




It was noon in Arizona, and as I started going through the large stack of mail that arrives daily, I came upon the 150 page color brochure from Hidden Trails. An amazing number of rides and destinations is almost overwhelming. The one trip that stood out was the Chilko Explorer Ride in British Columbia. I found myself captivated by the pictures and words of this magical place in the rugged Canadian Rockies. Is it possible that there could be a place this breathtakingly beautiful?

I called my good friend Donnis Thran and told her that I had found an amazing place where we should go for the getaway we had been promising ourselves for too long. We contacted Hidden Trails and talked at length with Ryan who actually has lived up at Chilko Lake for over 10 years. Four months later, on a gorgeous September day, Donnis and I were at the airport in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, boarding a ten passenger (pressurized) airplane to be transported out of this world and into a world of extraordinary beauty.

The 70 minute flight in and of itself was quite an experience as we flew over the rugged Canadian Coast Mountain landscape, with more lakes and rivers than I had ever seen before. The final decent into the Chilcotin Plateau, past snow-capped mountains and glacier fields, brought us to the final destination of the landing strip at Chilko Lake.

We were met by Bud McLean the man who visited this Lake in 1957 and knew on the spot that his goal was to build a Lodge and offer adventure seeking people the opportunity to experience Chilko Lake. The McLean's have lived and guided at Chilko Lake for forty-three years, and now Bud's children share his pride and in-depth love of this unique piece of Canada. The charm of the lodge is that it is a low-key, intimate atmosphere, and that friendly ambiance began to weave its presence the minute we stepped off the plane.

Donnis and I were taken to the Lodge and our private cabin that would be our home for the next eight days. This week the Lodge was filled with 8 equestrians and 4 fishermen, a diverse group that would bond together over the next days to be friends. Donnis and I were the only Americans in the equestrian group, with the rest of the eight consisting of equine thrill seekers from England, Germany and Austria. It was a fascinating experience to join other equestrians from around the world, to compare and share experiences and knowledge from different ethnic backgrounds. I felt so blessed to have such a wonderful group of new friends to share
this week at Chilko Lake.

Karen McLean announced that we were to all meet at the horse corrals and choose our mounts for the week. I was very impressed with the quality of the horses that were offered - a variety of different breeds - but all fit, sound, and well trained.

"We really are not looking for the novice rider clientele," Karen explained, "Our goal is to become known for providing good, responsive horses for medium to expert riders. Our horses are fit and able to travel over of the trails at a good trot or gallop."

As the week went on, I truly appreciated their vision and their horses. The fact that all of the 8 equestrians were capable trail riders who loved the opportunity to ride the trails with other experienced trail riders really added to the enjoyment of the week.

Within the hour we were all in the saddle and on the trails for a ride that may have been short in length, but it certainly was filled with views that had us all pointing with awe at the lake and the surrounding forest and mountains. We were given the responsibility for our own horse, and I was especially pleased to have as my partner for the week a Morgan cross gelding named Buck. I loved his personality, and his confident and responsive attitude.

The gathering of the guests and staff for meals was a very special time each day. The minute you walk into the Lodge, you feel as though you are in someone's home. Every-one sat around big tables, with the chef and staff preparing the food in the kitchen right next to the dining area. All guests and staff sat around the big tables each morning for a huge breakfast, and each evening for an incredible dinner. Now, I have to tell you, I came with high expectations about the activities, but I
was expecting average meals at an establishment so remote. However, I was delighted to discover that each meal was different and "gourmet", abundant in quality and taste, with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and breads in addition to steaks to Cornish game hens and a lasagna to die for?

Each day the trail riders would meet for breakfast, and Karen and Bud would go over the ride for the day. A stretch of unpredictable cold, wet weather put a crinkle in some of the rides that we were scheduled to experience, but we were still able to head out daily on 4-6 hour brisk rides to different places surrounding the lakes.

Each day we were treated to fabulous trails through the fall colors, with vistas of the mountains and lakes that defy description. My favorite ride was when Bud took us to the very top of the highest peak, and as we dug into the lunch that was prepared for us to enjoy on the trail, all riders were content to just sit in awe of the views below us on the Coast Range and Chilko Lake.

We returned each day in the middle of the afternoon, with time to relax in our cabins, or enjoy the hot tub on the deck, with a good glass of wine, the sunset over the lake, and the memories of the day to share with our equestrian friends. We also enjoyed the opportunity to do some hiking, and canoeing on the lake at day's end was just an amazing experience. There was so much to do!

The Lodge is at the end of the Chilko River which is the beginning of the 50-mile long Chilko Lake. This river and lake remain as one of the premier streams in North America for wild native Rainbow Trout. One of the reasons that I picked this September week was that it was at the height of the final journey for the spawning of the Sockeye salmon. Over one million salmon make the 700 mile trek each year to spawn, and the Lake turnes red with the abundance of these salmon. Although it is
illegal to catch the salmon during their spawning (and since they don't eat during this season, they seldom are caught), the river is filled with plenty of trophy sized Rainbow Trout to keep even the world class fisherman happy.

Donnis and I took a day off from the riding to fulfill our dream of becoming "fly fishermen." Our fishing guide, Matt, was an amazing teacher, as he took two "never done that" girls and turned us into fly fisher(wo)men to be proud. Although we started the session a bit wild in our casting, a patient Matt helped us get the hang of it, and by days end, we had hooked about 18 fish, and landed nine "BIG FISH" to the boat. Of course we had to have our pictures taken with the biggest ones, and then Matt gently removed the hooks and turned them loose since this river and lake is a "catch and release" environment.

With the return of the salmon comes the Eagles, Osprey, Blue Heron, Seagulls, and Coyotes, and yes, the Black bear and Grizzly Bear - all come to feast on the bounty of the river and the abundance of the Sockeye Salmon.

At the beginning, eight days away from the frantic world of work seemed like an eternity- but here I am, waiting for the airplane to arrive at our own version of 'Fantasy Island' to take us back to the "other world. It was a week that was timeless, and yet the time went by too fast. It was a week spent with strangers who had become friends, sharing the passion for good horses on exciting and breathtaking trails, bringing home the truth that no matter where in the world you live . horses can
bring us all together. It was a week that filled up all of my senses with the things that are most dear to my heart - horses, trials, friends, and rugged scenery that can only be described as Gods' Greatest Splendor.

Yes, the water really is that blue, Yes, the surrounding 10,000 foot mountains really are that majestic. Yes, the wildlife really is that abundant. Yes, the Lodge really does feel like home. Yes, the McLean family really are that committed to making each and every guest feel at home and experience all that your heart desires.

There is an exercise in meditation where, in a moment of stress, you are suppose to close your eyes and "go to your special place," bringing into your eyes mind," a place that brings you great joy and peace. So at moments when the work day gets a little crazy, if you see me sitting with my eyes closed and a smile on my face . you can be sure that I have returned to Chilko Lake. . . Buck and I are galloping over the mountain trails, with the wind in my hair, the turquoise blue lake below, and an
eagle and an osprey circling in the blue sky above, and my heart is filled with a peach and joy that comes when we experience God's amazing masterpiece from the back of a horse.

Shared by Susan E. Gibson

This and many other rides can be booked with Hidden Trails in Vancouver.
Call toll free at 1-888-987-2457 or visit their extensive website at www.hiddentrails.com

Chilko Explorer Ride  - British Columbia - " Whether we ride to the top of adjacent peaks or gallop along open meadows,  . . . we all love to ride. " This trip was designed for the intermediate to advanced rider looking for an exciting riding adventure in breathtaking country while enjoying the comforts of a wilderness lodge at night. After an exhilarating day in the outdoors you can play volleyball or horse-shoes, relax in the whirlpool on the front porch overlooking the Chilko Valley; or just relax in front of the large wood-burning fireplace exchanging stories with your fellow riders. Exceptional meals and fine wines are served family style. On one day during the week you will take part in a float trip down Chilko River or sightseeing boat ride up Chilko Lake. 2002  Rates per week: 8 days / 7 nights  incl. all meals, accommodation, 5.5 riding days, 1 day excursion up Chilko Lake or down the river June and September $ 1,295       July and August:       $ 1,595  Single Room + 25% Dates:  June 9-16, 16-23, 30-July 7   July 7-14, 14-21, 21-28 Aug 11-18, 18-25, 25-01 Sept 1-8, 8-15, 15-22, 22-29 Taxes:  subject to 3.5% GST tax  (7% for Canadians) Gratuities: 15% recommended Meeting: Chilko Lake  Closest airport:  Vancouver, BC Transfer to Chilko Lake:  private charter flight included from Vancouver Airport at 8:45 AM Arrival days:  Sunday  Horses: Quarter mix Tack: Western Pace: Moderate with fast rides Level: C+ Note: do not book a return flight before 4:00 PM on Sunday. Also a great combination with our Chilko Whitewater rafting trip ($125 discount for combination) Itinerary Sunday: A 9 a.m. charter flight takes you from Vancouver across the magnificent glaciers of the coastal mountains to Chilko Lake, where Karen McLean will greet you at the private landing strip of the ranch. After lunch and a short introduction you get a chance to test your horse on an afternoon ride. Monday: After breakfast we ride through fir forests to Green Lake. Along the way we stop for a picnic at the lake. In the afternoon there are some wonderful opportunities to canter on soft forest trails.  Tuesday: We ride up the steep trails of Mount Tullin. The ride takes us through magnificent fir forests to the timberline. From the summit it takes a 20-minute hike to reach the top of the mountain. Soak in the panorama of the Coast Mountains and 55 mile long Chilko Lake with its turquoise waters and the breathtaking beauty of  Tsylos Park. Wednesday: Today is set aside for a cruise up Chilko Lake or a float trip down Chilko River. Don't forget to bring your camera !  The scenery is spectacular. Thursday: We enjoy many brisk canters across the Chilcotin plateau and along the Chilko river. Advanced riders will enjoy the "rollercoaster" rides on narrow, windy forest trails. Due to the fast pace of these rides you have to be able to develop a good feeling and communicate well with your horse. It is excellent for stretching your riding abilities and building your confidence. Both the horse and rider find it fun and challenging. But not to worry, the horses are well trained and easily controllable. We stop for a nice picnic by the river with its fast flowing waters. Friday: A long day-ride across the plateau to Choelquoit Lake with the opportunity to take a dip in the cool water. Enjoy a picnic at the sandy beach with awesome views of Niut, Chilko & Tsuniah mountains. Saturday: A brisk ride takes you along the Chilko river to Henry's crossing. Enjoy a well deserved lunch break on the only bridge that spans the river. In September you can watch natives fishing for salmon here. In the afternoon we canter along the east side of the river to Canoe Crossing always with the whole mountain range in clear view. The horses swim across the river and freely gallop home while a boat ride takes you back to the ranch. In the evening a fabulous farewell dinner with barbecue awaits you. Sunday: Return flight after breakfast or start of another wilderness ride.   Itinerary subject to change due to weather etc.

50 mile long Chilko Lake

Grizzly feeding on a Salmon in September

.