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Trip Overview

  • Level: Moderate
  • Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
  • Location: Central Coast Mountains, British Columbia
  • Depart: Nimpo Lake
  • Price: US$4,600.00 Per Person
  • Season: July, August & September

Explore British Columbia’s Remote Coast Mountain Wilderness on a private hiking adventure. Float Plane to Ape Lake, Alpine Hike, Camp and explore the heart of Canada’s wilderness. 

Embark on a private wilderness adventure where your connection to nature begins the moment you step into the alpine. This all-inclusive experience offers a truly Canadian escape into one of British Columbia’s most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes—deep within the seldom-explored Central Coast Mountains.

Adventure Tours BC invites you to hike through pristine backcountry on a guided alpine journey led by your own dedicated wilderness guides. Each day is tailored to your pace and interests, creating a personalized exploration of Ape Lake—an untouched gem nestled near Bella Coola in the heart of the Coast Mountains. Here, dramatic peaks, ancient glaciers, and absolute solitude await.

Arrive by floatplane, soaring above the spectacular Monarch Icefield and cascading Hunlen Falls—Canada’s third-highest waterfall—before landing at a serene glacier-fed alpine lake that will serve as your wilderness basecamp.

Spend your days traversing glaciated terrain, crystal-clear lakes, and panoramic ridgelines. As evening falls, unwind by the bonfire beneath a canopy of stars, fully immersed in the wild magic of British Columbia’s alpine frontier. This is wilderness at its finest—raw, real, and unforgettable. 

Access this remote wilderness by float plane, flying over the majestic Monarch Ice Fields and Hunlen Falls, Canada’s third-highest waterfall, to a remote glacier lake in the alpine, where you’ll base from.

Each day, explore glaciated peaks, glacial-carved lakes, and summit breathtaking vistas. Enjoy bonfires under clear night skies, and be surrounded by Wilderness at its finest.

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Trip Highlights

Trip Itinerary

Arrivals Nimpo Lake | Float Plane Back Country Chilcotin Wilderness | Afternoon Hike

Your private BC wilderness Adventure begins by flying into a small West Chilcotin town called Anahim Lake. Flying from Vancouver to Anahim Lake, where your private guides awaits you. Your guides will pick you up and transfer you down the road to the float plane base in Nimpo Lake, in the heart of the West Chilcotin wilderness. You'll load up the Float planes and fly over the Coast Mountains to the remote wilds of the alpine just below the Monarch Icefields. Upon arrival, settle into your camp for the late afternoon and enjoy a light hike to a fabulous viewpoint.

Accommodation: Ape Lake , Wilderness Camp

Wilderness Alpine Hiking – Coast Mountains

Rising in the middle of paradise, to the smell of quality coffe and wonderful views, you'll be ready for some exploration! Spend the day exploring the alpine environment with a superb hike to glaciers, pristine lakes, and possibly summiting a nearby peak. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Coast Mountains and ice fields. Weather can play a role here, so your guide will decide which hike is best suited for the day.

Accommodation: Ape Lake, Wilderness Camp

British Columbia Alpine Hiking | Coast Mountain Wilderness

Good morning Canadian Alpine wilds! Rising to freshly brewed coffee and stunning views over the Monarch Ice fields, you'll be ready to start the day with a lovely hike to explore more expansive backcountry including mountain summits and ridge line explorations. An all time favourite upthis way is to hike to a series of beautiful alpine lakes called The Azur Lakes. Stunning turquoise waters that look unreal. Each day offers different vantage points and new areas to explore.

Enjoy stars and bonfires as we retell the days adventures!

Accommodation: Ape Lake , Wilderness Camp.

Morning Wilderness Hike| Scenic Float Plane Flight Over Monarch Ice Fields & Coast Mountains

Our last morning in the wilderness, you can enjoy a l to a nearby ridge. Great wildlife viewing here, we've even spotted a Wolverine out this way. Your guide will ensure to make the most of your days up here, so you can enjoy the alpine at your pace and comfort. You may even opt for just relaxing if your legs need a rest by now. This afternoon we will be picked up by our trustee Beaver Float Plane and flown back to semi civilization to the lodge at Nimpo Lake for a treat of rustic luxury in some very cool log cabins.
Great fishing on this lake, you can take a little boat out and try your hand at catching some delicious cut-throat trout. Dinner will be prepped by the lodge and warm showers await!

Accommodation: Lodge, Nimpo Lake

Departure Day

Final morning together, as we gather for a delicious breakfast at the lodge. Perhaps an early morning fish as you try to beat the Ospreys diving into the lake! You'll savour a wonderful appreciation of just how wild yo have gone and connected together amongst the true wilderness of British Columbia's Coast mountains.

This early afternoon your guide will transfer you to the local airport for your afternoon flight back to Vancouver.

The Details

Experience a true Canadian wilderness adventure in one of the most remote and untouched alpine regions of British Columbia’s Central Coast. Nestled deep within the dramatic Coast Mountains, this exclusive hiking tour offers floatplane access to a breathtaking alpine environment rarely visited by others. Surrounded by towering peaks, glacial lakes, and sweeping vistas, each day invites you to explore scenic trails that bring you face-to-face with ancient icefields and pristine backcountry.

This all-inclusive private tour includes return floatplane flights, cozy alpine tents with comfortable sleeping mats at our remote wilderness camp, as well as all meals and snacks prepared in the heart of nature. Immerse yourself in unforgettable day hikes, breathtaking glacier views, and scenic mountain perspectives. With expert local guides offering rich cultural context and deep knowledge of the region, this is more than just a hiking trip—it’s an immersive journey into the soul of British Columbia’s alpine wilds..

Inclusions

  • 3 Nights Wilderness Camp at Ape Lake
  • 1 Night Lodge / private cabins
  • 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners + Snacks Daily
  • 1 x 40 Minute Scenic Float Plane Flight Over Monarch Icefields
  • 1 x 25 Minute Float Plane Flight Access/Out of Wilderness
  • Wilderness Guiding Services
  • 2 x Private Guides
  • Fishing equipment & Boat Hire
  • transport to and from local airports described in the itinerary

Exclusions

  • Domestic Airfare to and from Tour Start/End Locations with Pacific Coastal Airlines (Average Cost: CAD 199.00-250.00 per person one way)
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Guide Gratuities
  • Pre and post tour accommodations

What's the Accommodation Like?

During your 5-day Private Wilderness Alpine Hiking Adventure, you'll stay in a fly in camp, set up iwth good quality alpine tents for 3 nights. We then include 1 nights accommodation in a beautiful lodge with private log cabins set right on a lake at our float plane base. The cabins provide a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after days of adventure, equipped with modern amenities. The fly in camp offesr a more rustic experience, with shared 2 - 3 person tents depending if you are a family of couples/ singles. The campsite is utterly beautiful, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the remote wilderness. Enjoy hearty meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and unwind in sone of Canada's most ultimate wilderness settings that blend rustic charm with contemporary comfort.

What's the Weather Like?

Expect warm late summers ranging from 17°C to -5°C. As the tour is based at a higher elevation (1700M), it gets very cool at night and warm during the day. Weather changes quickly in the Coast Mountains, so be prepared for four seasons in one day.

How Fit Do I Need To Be?

Our hiking tours are not suitable for beginner hikers and suit intermediate to strong hikers. Hikers should have good cardio fitness, be comfortable with uphill walking, and able to hike up to 5-7 hours and 7 km daily with varied terrain. Day packs are required for day hikes from the cabin base. Private tours will be catered to the groups ability and fitness.

What's The Terrain Like?

Wilderness hiking with a mix of alpine meadows, rocky scree slopes, stream crossings, and steep ascents/descents. Trails are unmarked, requiring sure-footedness and good balance. The trails are routes and more of a true wilderness setting, so proper hiking boots with ankle support are required. Examples of this wil be sent upon booking confirmation along with a detailed gear list.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What level of fitness is required?

Moderate to high fitness is required for hiking and other activities.

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What type of accommodation can I expect?

Comfortable lodge and backcountry cabin accommodations with shared sleeping quarters.

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What kind of food can we expect?

All meals and snacks are provided, featuring healthy and homemade dishes with local ingredients.

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Can I bring wine?

Yes, you can bring your own wine.

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What should I wear and bring?

Outdoor wear for temperatures between 17°C and -5°C. Include rain gear, layers, and sturdy hiking boots.

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How do I prepare for the hike?

Ensure you have a moderate to high level of fitness and bring appropriate gear.

Discover What Our Travellers Say

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David B profile picture
David B
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Wilderness trip is a lifetime Seamless booking process after organising a private tour which doesn’t necessarily run this time of year. Our guide Ben was a perfect blend experience, expertise and fun whilst being relaxed and catering to our every need. We were able to push our limits whilst feeling safe and secure. A trip of a lifetime in the real wilds of Canada.
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Abby profile picture
Abby
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Chilcotin Coast Get Away This was my second trip guided by Ben and Cristina - and it was one of the best weeks I have spent in the wilderness. This trip had it all - mountains, lakes, glaciers, bears (several!) moose, marmots, float planes, comfortable accommodation and excellent meals, whether we were in a cabin or next to the glacier. Expert guides who made us all comfortable with our surroundings - and a great bunch of fellow travellers I highly recommend this, or any other trips with Ben and Cristina.
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SanDiegoMom44 profile picture
SanDiegoMom44
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Trip of a lifetime I highly recommend any tour with Ben and Cristina. My husband and I first joined a New Zealand tour years ago which was our first guided trip. We were unsure of what to expect or how we would enjoy an all inclusive, guided tour as we had in the past organized our own "adventure" trips. Well, we were so amazed and overwhelmed by the New Zealand experience that we have just recently completed the Great Bear Rain forest tour with YOHO Adventures. Ben and Cristina immediately made us feel comfortable and handle all the logistics so that we could just enjoy the amazing scenery and experience this rugged country without having to worry about anything. The sites were so unique and the food and company so amazing we hope to plan another trip with them soon. The trip was an amazing experience, we could have never organized on our own and gave us a better understanding of life in BC, the history, and an appreciated for the beautiful country. Ben and Cristina are very knowledgeable (Cristina included a pack list which was extremely helpful) and made us feel safe in our endeavors such as the bear river float trip. Wow!! I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience the Great Bear Rainforest with two amazing guides.
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Duncan162 profile picture
Duncan162
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World Class Experience! My recent wilderness trip to Canada with Yoho Adventures was by far the best I have ever experienced in over 30 years of adventure travel. Ben and Christina ensure that every detail is taken care of and make every day special. They look after each group member's needs and ensure that everyone gets the best out of their trip. For me, being able to fish in a glacial lake in complete isolation armed with a radio and bear spray was something I'll never forget! Our bear float trip was outstanding!! We saw 10 bears and had the most amaxing experience. To put it quite simply: World Class!
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Kris W profile picture
Kris W
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Best Walking Trip Ever If you like remote, spectacular scenery, unique (but rustic) places to stay, challenging walking, good company and great food, yoho adventures is the company for you. 5 other women and I had an incredible time with Cristina and Ben in New Zealand's Mackenzie High Country early this month. The country we walked through was stunning and the night spent in a tiny hut perched in the middle of the mountains was a highlight for all of us. Cristina cooked us beautiful meals every night and both she and Ben were heaps of fun and great to be with. I came home after a 4 night trip feeling like I'd been away for weeks. Can't recommend these guys any more highly.
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valleriemarkopoulos
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Wonderful 5 day hike in B.C., Canada I had the absolute privilege to experience my first big time hike with Ben & Cristina this past month. I’m 22 years old and this trip was a birthday gift to myself, yoho adventures did not disappoint! Despite the forest fires in the area, Ben and Cristina managed to arrange a plan B which was absolutely wonderful, challenging both mentally and physically, enlightening and extremely empowering for me! We hiked and witnessed beautiful Canadian scenery, ate wonderfully (as per Cristina and Ben’s impressive cooking skills), and slept under the stars, and in a couple of lodges. As a beginner (such as myself) or an experienced hiker, I highly recommend yoho adventures to everyone and anyone! This was a life changing experience on my part, I am forever grateful to the two of you!
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HotBuns31
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Unique New Zealand Back Country Escape This was a girls' trekking adventure especially designed by wonderful local guides Ben and Christina. We went off-trail through rarely accessed areas of the Mackenzie Basin. It was a fantastic physical challenge and we were rewarded with the most amazing scenery and views. We learned about the local flora and fauna, weather patterns and some history of the area from our very knowledgeable guides. Ben and Christina looked after us so well - we ate beautiful food and stayed in comfortable, rustic accommodation that suited the style of trek we were on. Being an all-girls trek, I was curious about whether it would change the vibe having Ben around, but there were no issues at all - he was such a polite and easy-going bloke, very easy to talk to and he discreetly looked away or disappeared at all the right times. Plus he led the way for most of the trekking, and set a cracking pace, and I think the whole group appreciated the physical exertion as it was very satisfying and I felt a real sense of achievement at the end of the experience. In addition to that, Christina's organisation skills were brilliant - I appreciated so much the fact that I could just turn up for this adventure and not have to make a single decision - everything had been planned so perfectly. Yet there was still enough flexibility in the schedule for our guides to shuffle the itinerary to allow for adverse weather, without us missing out on anything. I will finish up by saying that if you are thinking about going on an adventure with Ben and Christina, take the plunge because you will not be disappointed. They absolutely love what they do - it is not work for them - it is all about sharing their passion for the outdoors and making it easy for others to enjoy and appreciate the wilderness the way they clearly do.
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Jelitank
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An amazing opportunity to hike in the Canadian wilderness When I told my friends that I was going hiking in the Canadian wilderness with a group of people I had never met before, they thought I was bonkers. But it was a brilliant experience. From the boat plane ride to our cabin, great hiking, time in lovely Bella Coola and bear sighting it was non stop fun and adventure. Cristina and Ben were great hosts and really looked after the group, with good food and great local knowledge. I would really recommend this trip as a great way to get off the tourist path and into the wilderness. You do need to be an experienced and fit hiker thought if you want to get the most out of the trip.
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infotraker
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British Columbia coastal high mountain hiking adventure The week I and 3 other fun loving people spent with our guides Ben and Christine was a trip of a life time. The cabin was perfect for the environment on a Glacier fed lake. The hikes took us to breathtaking heights among the glaciers. Later we had a adventurous grizzly bear viewing float boat trip. This is a fabulous trip for anyone loving the outdoors.
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Duplo86
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Trip of a lifetime...just do it! A girlfriend and I did this trip and had such a great time. The scenery is unreal! Ben and Cristina do such a great job with this trip, everything was really well done and they are so fun to spend time with, just great people. The food was amazing. The float plane flights were awesome. You have no idea how expansive those mountains and glaciers are until you see them from the sky! And seeing grizzly bears and their cubs up close on the float trip was the icing on the cake. I would definitely recommend this trip, you're in good hands with Ben and Cristina. I hope to get to do it again one day.

Meet Our Guides

Ben

Ben

Founder & Guide

Ben

As kiwi as it gets, hails from a long history of guiding throughout New Zealand and overseas. From The Milford Track, driving jet boats on the Hollyford track, or multi day hiking tours and enduro mountain bike expeditions, he is a man of many talents! Filled with a rich and passionate knowledge of geology and history, and wild places. Ben is the co founder of Tekapo Adventures and enjoys sharing his passion with people from around the globe. On his down time you can find him riding bikes with the kids, hunting and tramping and fixing vehicles!

Cristina

Cristina

Founder & Guide

Cristina

A Can- Iwi as we call her, shes born in Canada and lives in New Zealand alongside Ben and their little two monkeys. You’ll enjoy her local knowledge and passion for nature and wild places, alongside her rich experience in guiding throughout the southern alps by hiking and Mountain biking for over 16+years. She looks after alot of the admin and marketing and sales and you can also find her behind the driver’s seat too! On her down time you can find her exploring nature with the kids, or doing yoga.

Why Choose Adventure Tours BC

Choosing Adventure Tours BC means opting for an unparalleled wilderness experience in the heart of British Columbia. Our family-run venture, built on world-famous Kiwi hospitality and local knowledge, ensures a warm and personalized wilderness experience. We offer a diverse range of experiences, from serene wilderness tours to challenging alpine hikes, catering to all adventure spirits. Each journey is educational, with rich narratives about local ecology, geology, and history. With access to remote areas, expert guides, and a commitment to sustainability, your adventure will be both unique and conscientious.

FAMILY HERITAGE

Join our family. Experience the warmth and personalized service that can only come from a family-run venture who have spent years hiking and exploring  wonderful remote areas of BC, Canada

DIVERSE EXPERIENCES

Whether it’s a peaceful sightseeing tour or a multi day private Alpine hike, our diverse offerings cater to all adventure spirits. We create custom and very unique wilderness adventures to a variety of tastes. Our exclsuive access to remote wilderness areas offers a one of a kind adventure experience. 

EDUCATIONAL JOURNEYS

Expand your horizons. Our trips are infused with insightful narratives about the local ecology, geology, and history.

Comfort and Convenience

Enjoy seamless travel with carefully planned logistics, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable adventure. Our accommodations are carefully selected by our many years of working with wonderful partners in beautiful locations.

EXPERT GUIDES

Learn from the best. Our guides are not only wilderness experts but also storytellers of the land.  Enjoy stories and adventures from years of experience travelling through some of BC's most remote and wild areas. Share the passion with us!

SUSTAINABLE ADVENTURES

Journey with a clear conscience. Our eco-friendly approach ensures the preservation of these landscapes for years to come. We partner with top the line local operators who are giving back to the remote areas they operate in.