Its a true alpine paradise

When I was looking for the perfect place to build an alpine chalet in the high mountains of the British Columbia interior I had ski-mountaineering and summer mountaineering in my mind. It was my absolute focus to find the very best area with the largest variety of high-alpine terrain to live my deep passion for the mountains. I found what interested me most: an area of incredible peaks, huge glacier systems with wild broken ice-falls and the most amazing terrain for recreation. Luck was on my side and the Government granted me a permit to build the Durrand Glacier Chalet in the summer of 1985.

Already during the first summer at Durrand Glacier, I learned that this 80 square kilometer area is not just a playground for skiers to dance in the deep powder of the northern Selkirks or for climbers to enjoy the challenge and exposure of a fantastic alpine climb. This area is a true paradise for hikers of all abilities. When I think about it today, it all makes sense. That extremely large winter snow-pack, melting during the spring and early summer weeks forms the perfect water-reservoir in the ground, bringing to life a large variety of wild flowers, far beyond any hiker's expectation.

The remoteness of this unique area is the single reason why you will encounter no one other than the guests staying at the Durrand Glacier Chalet. You can truly say, "find your own world". Endless fields of blooming alpine meadows, with the many colours of well over 100 different species of distinct wild-flowers.

The high glaciers frame the entire area with the surrounding towering peaks. Many wild running creeks bring the cold melt-water down to the deep-forested valleys. Huge waterfalls challenge the run of the water as it falls with roaring noise over high and steep rock-cliffs. In many places the water collects to form peaceful jade mountain-lakes that mirror the reflection of this special alpine area.

Wildlife watching at Durrand Glacier is part of the experience as you visit the serenity of this remote area. Marmots, mountain goats and a large variety of birds including the golden eagle and the peregrine falcon find their home in these mountains. In addition, you can occasionally see the great grizzly bear.

Our extensive trail-network of well over 75 kilometers of maintained and marked trails makes it easy to visit every corner of this alpine paradise. There area total of seven main destinations and several smaller "side-routes" that lead you to the most incredible secrets of this wonderful mountain world. Each trail has its own character and the scenery changes continuously as you hike.

I visit many different alpine areas around the world every year and as much as I always experience an absolute high on my different travels, there is only one area that truly found a spot in my adventurous heart... the Durrand Glacier. For all these reasons we have opened up this area for you to visit. Stay at the beautiful Swiss style Durrand Glacier Chalet and let us share with you an adventure, an alpine serenity and a relaxing few days in an alpine paradise that you will remember forever.

With regards,

Ruedi Beglinger
with Nicoline, Charlotte and Florina