How much terrain does Chatter Creek offer?
Chatter Creek has a lease for 238 square km's of terrain with about 75% being skiable.
What is your ratio of alpine skiing to tree skiing?
About 65% of our skiable terrain is alpine and glacier and the remaining 35% is tree skiing.
What time do we get back to Donald after the trip?
About 2.5 hours after finishing skiing. We leave the lodge between 3 to 5pm depending on the time of the year. Guests can expect to be driving away from Donald no later then 6:30 pm.
What is December skiing like?
Normally, great! We have tracked snow levels and that is why in 2006 we started confidently opening 2 weeks earlier. Although December can be colder, you can be skiing in dry, bottomless powder, which keeps winter chills away!
Why are the December rates cheaper?
The primary reason our December rates are cheaper is due to the shorter daylight hours. Typically in Canada, people tend to ski after Christmas holidays, so rates are more attractive to entice skiers to come! This early season skiing parallels mid season skiing. The reduced price does not mean skiing is poor!
What is skiing like in April?
Sometimes the skiing in April is the best of the winter. We have plenty of north facing skiing in the alpine and the trees. It seems to snow and storm heavily or have long bluebird days. It's the favorite time of many returning guests.
Can I be reached at the lodge in an emergency?
Yes, we have internet access and both an internet and satellite phone. It is best to phone the office in an emergency at 1 877 311 7199. Our office staff will help facilitate the call and they will contact the lodge manager who has radio contact with all the guides.
Why such rigid baggage restrictions?
We travel to the lodge by helicopter. The baggage areas are strange shapes and limited and will not take large hockey type bags or unlimited baggage. The small bag we ask you to bring will hold all anyone needs. Chatter Creek is a relaxed place. Tuxedos are not needed for dinner!
Can I bring my lap top and use it at the lodge?
We would prefer that you leave your computer at home since guests are flown to the lodge by helicopter and space is at a premium. There are four work stations with internet access available to guests. Most of all we want you to forget the outside world and enjoy the Chatter Creek experience! However, we do have wireless internet access throughout the buildings.
Do snowboard bindings have to be removed for the helicopter flights?
No they do not.
What happens if I miss the helicopter flight?
We fly in daylight and are limited with flight times. We can arrange to get you to the lodge for an additional charge of $250 each on snowmobiles. The helicopter can be chartered through Alpine Helicopters the next day at a cost of about $1500 for your one way trip. We recommend that you come to Golden the day before to avoid such an occurrence.
If I would like to leave a tip, what is the best way to do it?
At Chatter Creek, we are grateful when our guests' leave a tip at the end of their stay. We have the ability to accept a tip when settling your bill at the end of your stay by credit card. At Chatter Creek, all tips are divided equally among the staff working at the time of your stay. We feel strongly that all our people contribute equally for you to have a wonderful experience at the lodge.