Doing Stuff Outdoors-43

On this special edition of Doing Stuff Outdoors Gary goes to Purcell Mountain Lodge in British Columbia. It's a slice of heaven nestled in an alpine meadow surrounded by towering summits and tumbling glaciers. This luxurious, wilderness alpine retreat is accessible only by helicopter. It's a magical place, completely off the grid with its own water treatment plant and power generation from a nearby stream. Only a limited number of visitors are permitted each year. They come for hiking in the summer and the champaign powder in the winter. Guests can choose from backcountry touring with skis or snowboards, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or even tobogganing. It's a winter wonderland.

Gary joined five others for a four day telemark backcountry adventure. There were plenty of fresh tracks through knee deep powder every day. They experienced 2000-foot descents through treed glades and in alpine bowls. And there were some surprises thrown in as well. Gary recorded an audio diary every day with all the skiers, the two guides and lodge staff. You'll hear about all the experiences, all the stories and adventures... it's like being at Purcell Mountain Lodge yourself. Enjoy.

Next week Gary wraps up his BC skiing adventure with a visit to Panorama Mountain Village. Call in your comments, suggestions and outdoor adventures to the comments line at 206-600-4557. Email Gary at [e-mail] and subscribe to DSO in iTunes.