Kokanee

Another ACC hut, but this one is quite the operation in many ways. Strange design, but quite comfortable. You can obviously tell it was built by committee as things just don’t always add up, but you will be warm, dry and comfy. Located above 1900m next to some spectacular lakes.

Lodge ***

Terrain ****

Snow *****

Strengths

• Lots of comfort in the lodge with power and couches and a big easy to use kitchen. Lots of indoor drying space.

• Super fun, diverse terrain for the week. Some great summits up Kokanee glacier area, with long descents, cool tours, fun tree line romps, safe skiing in sketchy times.

• Reliable and high quality snow. This group of high peaks has a big glacier here for a reason - it snows a lot!

• Slightly cheaper as an ACC hut with self guided groups able to book spaces! I still recommend hiring a guide!

Weaknesses

• The lodge misses the mark in so many ways. Hot running water, but no hot shower tap? You have to fill a bag? Tons of space, yet no private rooms, bunks and dorm style boarding? Internet for the hut keeper but none for the guests, when you are self guided you can’t even get the weather and snow info on your own.

• Lottery to book it…which means its really hard to plan a trip here.

When and why to ski at Kokanee? December through March. I feel like its too low/too far south for good spring skiing, as the steep north faces are limited.