8 Day Ranch Relax Holiday Package with Photo Tour in British Columbia

Facilities

If you want to get a touch of the gold rush in the 1850s, try your luck gold panning in the creek. You never know what the spring waters have washed your way from the untouched mountains upstream. The avid photographers will have lots to point their cameras at whether just the scenery, the animals around the ranch, or the occasional wildlife, from the inquisitive squirrel to the mighty moose.

If you have the desire to go a bit further, explore the surroundings on one of the mountain bikes. Even indoors, make yourself comfortable in the spacious lounge in front of the fireplace, chill out and get in contact with friends and family using the free wireless internet.

Horses

All horses are just as happy out in front leading as they are at the back following. For the experienced rider, they are all responsive enough to move up and down the line and listen to where you want to go, yet safe enough to quietly drop their head and follow with a novice or less confident rider.

Big Creek Lodge always tries to maintain a good mix in their herd to be able to match the different types of riders. While some of their four-legged team are older with a lot of experience, others are just in their prime and they also have a handful of youngsters who will be just starting their ground training this summer. Feel free to watch and ask questions if you catch them in the round pen.

The horses all get regular schooling in the arena to keep them as soft and willing as possible. In springtime, this allows Big Creek Lodge to bring them back into work slowly and gently after their winter vacation. It also allows the summer staff to get to know their "teammates" and all their characters, making your riding days as enjoyable as possible.

You will have a day trip to a close-by natural attraction (e.g. Nemaiah Valley).

Big Creek Lodge is situated almost at the end of the road in the heart of the Chilcotin, Cariboo region of British Columbia, Canada with nothing but miles of wilderness and ranching country all around you; surrounded by crystal-clear rivers, scenic lakes, open pastures, and pristine forests.

No matter where or by what means of transport you are traveling, the small town of Williams Lake is the ideal starting point. The easiest way to get there is by taking a one-hour (onward) flight from Vancouver (Pacific Coastal Airlines or Central Mountain Air from the South Terminal). Then, only two more hours by rental car or offered transfer service separate you from the riding experience that you have always dreamed of!

The 4-star lodge, including the ranch with about 20-25 horses, is beautifully situated over the Big Creek. All lodge rooms and the suite are cozy and comfortably furnished. Shower/WC, laundry, hairdryer, and underfloor heating are standard; king size, queen size, or twin beds. Most rooms have a balcony/terrace, some have large panoramic windows. Free Wi-Fi is available. Cable TV is in the living area of the lodge. Full board (three meals daily and certain non-alcoholic drinks) included. Cabins with bath and terrace are bookable on request.

The area is best explored on the back of a horse (even for novice riders), while on the horizon, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Coast Mountains! A wide range of alternative activities such as fishing, mountain biking, etc. as well as a cozy fireplace and an outside whirlpool complete the offer.

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All meals are included and will be served buffet-style. Special dietary requests can be met upon prior notice.

All inclusive catering

The all-inclusive home-style country kitchen serves delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. Hearty lunches can also be packed for your fishing expeditions, trail rides, daily excursions, and other activities you take part in.

When do meals get served?

Whenever you book with Big Creek Lodge, their “all-inclusive” package covering all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, and the use of lodge facilities are included.

• 08:30 Breakfast
• 13:00 Lunch
• 18:30 Dinner

You can always grab a bite outside these times as well! Hearty packed lunches will be provided for trail rides.

Can you make special dietary requests?

Absolutely. Big Creek Lodge is able to cater to your dietary requests. Please inform them of your requirements upon booking and they’ll be happy to ensure a tasty menu.

Trail riding - There is no better way: 95 CAD for guests | 120 CAD for out-of-house guests

Situated almost at the end of the road, you are completely surrounded by pristine forests, meadows, and hidden lakes. The trails have something for everyone, whether you are a beginner or experienced rider, and they can tailor your experience to your abilities. While the local terrain is mostly rocky soil keeping you at a slower pace, there are many opportunities to get the heart pumping and lots of beautiful views and photo opportunities.

Amongst many others, they recommend the following 3 trails:

• Water Station (approximately 14 kilometers) - You'll follow the Big Creek on the side of the river and enjoy the views of the Coast Mountains. Before taking a break at the water station, you'll cross a tributary of the Big Creek.
• Dig Maddow (approximately 20 kilometers) - You'll ride to a plateau with great view to the Coast Mountains. On the way, you'll have a break in a rustic cowboy cabin. The most popular trail ride.
• One Million Dollar View (approximately 16 kilometers) - A statement of one of the guests during the break on the top of the hill. You'll cross the Big Creek at the lodge and explore the other side of the river.

They will help you choose a horse from a friendly herd and give a brief instruction in the arena to make sure you two make a good match and become friends. They really want you to feel safe and comfortable so you will have enjoyable trail rides. It’s completely up to you if you want to have your horse waiting for you ready to go or you want to help catch, groom, and saddle it.

Prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars per person including all taxes. Trailrides are about 3 to 5 hours long.

Cattle drives - You can still find real cowboys out here: 190 CAD per day

Ranch life hasn't changed much in the last few hundred years with the cowboy still being the most important person in the place. The cowboy's life revolves around the ranch and livestock and requires long days of work to keep the place running. The job starts early in the morning and doesn't finish till all the work has been done; moving the cattle in June and back again in autumn is an integral part of the work. Maximum of 6 people - please check with Big Creek Lodge for dates.

Day trips - Experience the highlights around: 140 CAD per day

Enjoy for example a lovely drive in the legendary 33-year old Ford F350 Truck to Sherwood Lake, one of the regional natural wonders, and get some views of the mighty Coast Mountains. Or explore the First Nations reserve of Nemaiah Valley. Book one of the day trips and take photos of a lifetime. Prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars per person including lunchbox and all taxes. Minimum of 3 people.

Camp trips - The deep natural experience: 1385 CAD per trip

Join a trip to the remote camp where you can explore further into the untouched wilderness of the Chilcotin area. Duration: 4 nights in total, of which 2 nights are spent out at camp. Minimum of 3 and a maximum of 4 participants. Bookable only on request.

PLEASE NOTICE: A camp trip is also included in the 7-night Adventure Package.

94th Annual Rodeo in Williams Lake - 110 CAD per day per ticket + transfers (Minimum of 2 pax)

Enjoy Canadian Professional Rodeo Association action at the World Famous William Lake Stampede! See some of North America's best cowboys live in authentic shows and competitions. 2020 edition canceled due to the Corona pandemic! 2021 dates follow soon!

Other activities

• Birdwatching
• Cross-country skiing
• Hiking
• Photography

• 1 day trip
• 7 nights accommodation
• Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Any snacks, tea, coffee, and soft drinks
• Use of a hot tub
• Tax

• Alcohol
• Airport transfer (Exact rates are available upon request)
• Additional activities
• Airfare

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• A reservation requires a deposit of 25% of the total price.
• The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
• The rest of the payment should be paid on departure.