Summer 2015

Summer 2015 - News . Packages . Menus . Hiking . Spa . Fly Fishing

Welcome to another edition of the Island Lake Summer e-magazine. As the past winter dissipates from our minds, we are watching the days grow longer and wild flowers rise from the ground.

Our trail crew has been busy getting our hiking trails ready and working on finishing our new mountain bike trail The Lazy Lizard, which should be for finished this summer. Our hiking guides are ready to show you the property and impart their knowledge of the area. A new scheduled hiking calendar is also ready to go.

Our culinary team has created another set of delectable menus and the views from our patios are as stunning as ever.

Be sure to check out the weekly specials in our Spa.

We hope to see you up at Island Lake this summer.

Photo: Mike McPhee

HikingIsland Lake Lodge, which is located in the Lizard Range of the Rocky Mountains is surrounded by 7,000 acres of prime hiker habitat ranging from old growth Cedar forests to dramatic peaks. From the Lake Trail, an easy 45 minute walk, to Heiko’s Trail, a 22 km all day adventure over mountain passes and through alpine - there is something for all levels of hikers. If you want to learn about the flora and fauna of the area or just want to let someone lead the way, Island Lake also has guides available.

Photo: Mike McPhee

Guided Half Day Hike - $20 per person - Minimum of 2 people. Choice of our half-day trails: Mt Badly, The Fir Trail, The Spineback trail and Tamarack Viewpoint. Must be booked at least 24 hrs in advance.

Guided Route Hike - $99 per person - Minimum of 2 people. Must be booked at least 24 hrs in advance. With an ACMG certified hiking guide.

More info on Guided Hiking

Marked Hiking Trails

* LAKE TRAIL (2 km, 1 hr) Rating: Easy FIR TRAIL Extension (add 3 km & 1 hr) Rating: Easy* RAIL TRAIL (3 km, elevation gain 50 m, 45min - 1.5 hr) Rating: Rail Trail: Easy. * OLD GROWTH TRAIL (4 km, elevation gain 250m, 45min - 1.5 hr) Rating: Moderate. * SPINEBACK TRAIL (3.5 km, elevation gain 530 m, 3-4 hours) Rating: Advanced* MOUNT BALDY LOOP (10.5 km, elevation gain 620 m, 4-6 hours) Rating: Advanced * TAMARACK TRAIL (8 km, elevation gain 640 m, 5 hrs) VIEWPOINT (4 km, elevation gain 200 m, 3 hours) Rating: Moderate to Advanced

www.Islandlakelodge.com 1.888.422.8754

Check out our Guided Hike Calendar!

Hiking Routes of the Cedar ValleyRating for Routes: Difficult

These routes are unmarked with no trails above the tree-line. Significant route finding and navigation skills are required. Hazards include: Steepness, loose rock, becoming lost, encountering wild animals and stream crossings are some of the hazards. A hiking guide is recommended.

* MOUNTAIN LAKES TRAIL (HEIKO’S TRAIL)

(22 km, elevation gain 4500 m, 8-12 hours) Rating: Difficult

* CABIN RIDGE (ROUTE)

* LIZARD LAKE (ROUTE) * BIG WHITE PEAK (ROUTE)

Hiking Tips:* Bring extra clothing and water. The weather in the mountains can change quickly* The wild flowers are at their peak from mid to late July* Heiko’s trail is clear of snow by late July and is spectacular in the fall when the Tamarack needles have turned orange* The Spineback trail has a fascinating fossil bed about halfway up the trail* The Bear Lodge deck is the perfect place for Après Hike

Photo: Mark Gallup

Heiko’s TrailThe Mountain Lakes (Heiko’s) Trail is quickly becoming the signature trail of the Southern Canadian Rockies. The 22 km trek has just about everything you could want to see on a hike - waterfalls, canyons, caves, old growth forest and alpine meadows carpeted with wildflowers. The diversity of this trail is truly unique.

Starting at an elevation of 4,650 feet the trail climbs steadily though lush forest. The first feature encountered is Jumping Waters waterfall. The moss covered rock and tranquil setting are navigated by a series of ladders and steps that are well built. At one spot you can see the top of the waterfall exiting the side of a cliff - seemingly from nowhere.

Several hundred metres up the trail is Bisaro Cave. This geological feature is impressive and worth the hike on its own. The cave is large, goes back a fair ways and looks to be perfect Neanderthal habitat...

After more elevation gain, you come to Bisaro Canyon, with the south face of Bisaro Mountain rising impressively above. This unique waterway is made up of a series of waterfalls and naturally eroded bathtubs.

More climbing leads into the sub-alpine and then alpine tundra. The wild flowers are truly spectacular and are usually at their prime in late July / early August. Paintbrush, Arica, Buttercups, Fleabane and Daisies carpet the ground in a myriad of colour.

Next up is 3 Sisters Pass at an elevation of 7,500 feet and a good spot to have lunch. The trek continues through more alpine wildflowers, a bit of a decent towards Fairy Meadows - then more climbing up to Windy Pass at 7,000 feet. As you come through this last major pass, the dramatic Lizard Range is revealed with views all the way to the Steeples, Dibble Glacier and Fisher Peak near Cranbrook.

From Windy Pass you head to Tamarack Ridge, then down through refreshingly cool old growth forest to Island Lake Lodge. An ice-cold beer and or dinner on the lodge deck may be the most delicious of your life and a great reward after 9 or so hours on the trail.

Photo: Mike McPhee

Photos: Mike McPhee

Spa and Relaxation

We are pleased to offer the following specials for Summer 2015:

* Manic Monday – $50 manicures with your choice of regular OPI Lacquer or OPI Gel Colour. Also, If you book a manicure on a Monday AND a reservation for Date Night in the Ancient Timbers Dining Room, upgrade your mani to OPI Gel colour free of charge.* Treat Yourself Tuesdays – $25 off any of our facial treatments* Wellness Wednesdays – 20% off any body treatment on our menu * Book four guests for treatments and receive a complimentary bottle of bubbly

Reservations required – 250-423-3700 Click here to view the entire Spa Menu

The spa at Island Lake Lodge offers a full menu of services to ensure you feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Massages, body treatments, four kinds of facials, and manicures and pedicures are performed by experienced therapists and estheticians. Island Lake’s spa uses products by French skincare brand, Yon-Ka. Committed to making nature-derived products from sustainably-grown plants, Yon-Ka focuses on phytotherapy and aromatherapy. These therapies are achieved via the essential oils of plants such as fine lavender from Haute-Provence, thyme from Spain and geranium from Egypt. The spa’s atmosphere is peaceful with earth tones and soothing instrumental music. Cozy robes and sandals are available for guest use. Just outside on the spa’s deck is a hot tub and lounge chairs where guests can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Lizard Range mountains.

One of the four facials on the spa menu is the Summer Hydration Facial. This 60 minute treatment is excellent for soothing and re-balancing parched sunkissed skin and begins with an aromatic compress, an essential oil toning mist and a gentle vegetable exfoliation. This is followed by a hydrating mask and a relaxation massage of the face, neck and neckline. Next, a second hydration mask is smoothed onto the skin to quench dehydrated summer skin while the hands are massaged. Finally, an aromatherapy awakening finishes the treatment to leave you feeling revitalized.

Photo: Dave Heath

Photos: Matt Kuhn

Wining and Dining The culinary program at Island Lake is one of the main reasons guests visit the lodge. There are two restaurant on site: the Bear Lodge Bistro for lunch and the Ancient Timbers Dining Room for dinner. Specializing in Western Canadian cuisine with a French inspiration, Island Lake uses locally-sourced ingredients wherever possible. The restaurant’s philosophy is that whole, fresh foods naturally boast vibrant flavours that should be featured and complimented in the cooking style, not masked with overstated seasoning. Eating ‘real food’ prepared in a healthy and conscientious way does not have to mean a sacrifice of flavour. The Ancient Timbers restaurant atmosphere has all the best features of a cozy log cabin, heightened to a fine dining experience with impeccable service, an exquisitely carved fireplace and candlelight. Both of the restaurants possess patios and panoramic views of the Lizard Range, allowing diners to feel surrounded by nature while enjoying the comforts of the lodge. With a focus on sustainability, Executive Chef Keith Farkas can be seen at the local farmers’ market each week purchasing Elk Valley-grown produce from community businesses. For the last ten years, a whole cow has been purchased from the local 4H club, an organization focused on motivating and inspiring youth to be active in their communities. Furthering its commitment to sustainable food, Island Lake is a partner of the Oceanwise program. Oceanwise is a Vancouver Aquarium managed organization that helps food-related businesses purchase seafood without adding to the perils of overfishing, habitat destruction and bycatch.

There are two weekly specials available all summer - Monday Date Night offers two entrées, two glasses of BC bubbly and a shared appetizer or dessert for $79 per couple. Wine Tasting Wednesday features a five course tasting menu with five wines for $89 per person. Reservations are recommended.

More info on our Culinary Program

Summer 2015 Lunch Menu

Summer 2015 Dinner Menu

StartersPacific Crudo $15 albacore tuna, kuterra salmon, queen charlotte scallops, ginger, apple & daikon slaw, fresh citrus, chili coulis

Artichoke Ravioli $16 hand rolled pasta, truffle sunchoke cream, fresh parsley salad, smoked heirloom tomato Grilled Caesar Salad $14baby romaine, parmiggiano regiano, grilled lemon, black garlicciabatta croutons, anchovy vinaigrette, crisp proscuitto

Venison Tartare $18hand cut venison tenderloin, horseradish quail’s ‘egg’, juniper vinaigrette, potato nest, braised conifer shoots

Sub Alpine Pizza $14all day tomato sauce, prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, wild arugula, or truffled thyme cream, wild mushroom duxelle, gruyere

Grilled Salmon Tacos $15blacken spiced Kuterra salmon, citrus slaw, coriander, pico de gallo, corn tortillas, avocado cream

Grilled Caesar Salad $14baby romaine, parmiggiano regiano, grilled lemon, black garlic ciabatta croutons, anchovy vinaigrette, crisp pancetta

Seared Tuna Nicoise $16albacore tuna, organic lettuces, confit tomato, baby potato, french beans, olive tapenade, pesto, Dijon aioli

Lettuce Wrap Platter $17roasted pork shoulder, pickled carrot, cucumber & daikon, fried rice noodles, kimchi puree, ginger scallion, leaf lettuce

Summer Salad $13wild arugula, watermelon, goat’s cheese feta, vincotto originale, extra virgin olive oil, cedar valley garnishes Lodge Burger $18local beef patty, lettuce, red onion pickle, aioli, cheddar, tomato, pancetta, lodge ketchup, baby potatoes and organic greens

Daily Soup & Sandwich $14

Smoked Beet Reuben $14smoked garnet beets, grilled portabella, emmanthal swiss,sauerkraut, island dressing, baby potatoes and organic greens

Grilled Steak Sandwich $19aaa alberta beef, tomato confit, blue cheese crumble, grilled ciabatta, baby potatoes and organic greens

Mains

Desserts

gluten, lactose, allergen free by request

These are sample menus - some items and prices may change

Coriander Crusted Pickerel $32 fennel cream broth, spiced carrot julienne, french beans, lemon scented potato rosti

Vegetables ‘In Textures’ $27roasted summer vegetables, braised fennel, glazed cipoline, pickled mushroom & radish, nasturtium pesto, pistachio puree, farro cake

Free Range Chicken $31 coconut and lime risotto, mint and cashew pesto, grilled pineapple, chili spiced asparagus, crisp plantain

Grilled Kuterra Salmon $29roasted beets, pumpernickel gnocchi, market vegetables, ginger scallion sauce, lemon caper butter

Bison Shortribs $35 slow braised, truffled cheddar polenta, roasted vegetables, cinnamon red wine braising juices

Chop n’ Belly $34grilled pork chop, cedar maple gastrique, slow roasted pork belly, cauliflower & turnip puree, apple braised greens,

Champagne Panna Cotta $9toasted almond roche, wild berry garnish

Seasonal Fruit Galette $8sweet dough crust, goat cheese ice cream, brittle

Maple Semifreddo $8almond jaconde, brown butter pistachio, blueberry citrus compote

Crème Brulée $9evolving and revolving flavours, biscotti

Dark Chocolate Torte $10caramelized white chocolate, dark chocolate macaron, espresso ice cream, sea salt bark, bailey’s anlgaise

Ice Cream and Sorbet $7cycling flavours, toasted pirouline biscuit

Venison Tartare $18hand cut venison tenderloin, horseradish quail’s ‘egg’, juniper vinaigrette, potato nest, braised conifer shoots

Grilled Lamb Pops $16Glazed cipoline onions, fresh thyme jus, mustard sabayon, pomegranate

Market Salad $15 sustainable, foraged & envirowise produce; chef’s conception

Weddings... Island Lake StyleA Wilderness Wedding Weekend

Celebrate your wedding in the pristine mountain setting of Island Lake Lodge. Exchange wedding vows by the lake at our magical “I Dew Point” with the stunning Lizard Range as your backdrop. Let our culinary team create unforgettable meals for you and your guests. Invite friends and family to join you for an inspiring weekend in our 7,000 acre mountain paradise.

Photo: 6:8 Photography

The Lizard Range of The Rocky Mountains makes for a dramatic backdrop

Photo: Yueko Image

Island Lake Lodge is surrounded by numerous trout streams and the Fernie area has become one of the top “dry-fly” fishing destinations in North America. The Elk River, which runs through Fernie, holds the largest population of Westslope Cutthroat left in the world and they love feeding off the surface. Monster Bull Trout also inhabit our local waters. We partner with some of the best guides in the area for the perfect fly fishing adventure.

Fly-Fishing Heaven

Photo: Mike McPhee

Photos: Mike McPhee

Other Activities

White Water Rafting

With so much outdoor recreation at your doorstep, the only problem you will have is choosing which part of the Elk Valley you want to discover today!

In addition to the activities available at Island lake Lodge, the Fernie area offers spectacular fly fishing, hiking, golf, white water rafting and more! Fernie has many amazing activity providers, we would be happy to help you plan your day and add even more adventure to your stay with us.

Elk RiverA classic river run that has it all; exciting rapids, wilderness set deep in a quiet canyon providing outstanding scenery, cliff jumping, big game animals and birds of prey. The intensity of the rapids varies with the change of seasons. May and June bring the spring snowmelt and high water creating the biggest waves and most powerful rapids. Early July is a great time with lots of water still flowing, but warmer weather prevailing. Later in July and August water levels are at their friendliest, a great time for first time rafters and families with children eight years old and older who love water.

Bull RiverThe Bull River is a small volume mountain river running through beautiful mountains and lush forests. Medium to high water trips are run in May and June including exciting class 2/3/4 rapids. The excitement builds progressively with each set of rapids to the climax in the lower canyon. The Lower Bull Canyon is one of the most sustained stretches of class IV water in the area.

The Fernie area has a variety of river experiences available. From scenic floats to full-on white water adventure, there is something for everyone. We deal with 2 great companies - Canyon Raft and Mountain High Adventures, both of whom are safe and professional.

Golf

Mountain Biking

Operating since 1918, Fernie Golf and Country Club has been rated in the top 25 of BC’s golf courses. The 18-hole, par-70, 6,556 yard course has plenty of options to challenge your skills.

Home to the most extensive club-fitting and building program in the Kootenays, a beautiful club house, full pro shop and driving range. CPGA professionals are available for private, semi-private or group lessons should you need to tune up your game.

Fernie has a vibrant and growing mountain bike scene. There is a diverse range of trails all over the valley and you don’t have to go far to find some world class single track. There is even an easy river trail around the town that is chariot and children friendly. Island Lake is currently building an easy trail up to the lodge that parallels the main road. Named Lazy Lizard, this trail should be completed mid summer 2015.

Photo: Mike McPhee

Lodges and Packages

The Mountain Romance PackageIncludes: 2 relaxing nights in a deluxe lodge, breakfast in bed, a bottle of local B.C. Bubbly, 2 spa treatments and a chocolate / fruit plate. Enjoy full use of our lodge facilities, as well as miles of pristine hiking trails in our remote mountain setting. Perfect for anniversaries and special occasions! From $639.00 per couple

Custom Fly-Fishing Packages Island Lake Lodge is surrounded by some of the best fly-fishing rivers in North America. Warm up on our private lake before hitting the nearby waters. Experience our unique mountain lodges and spectacular setting, as well as the world famous Elk River. We will set you up with a professional guide and drift boat, or walk and wade trip. Call and let us customize a package for you.

The Zoomers PackageWere you born in the baby boom generation? Are you reinvigorated and ready for the next phase of life? Well this package might be just what you need. With 7,000 acres of wilderness, trails, streams and scenic lake, Island Lake Lodge is a unique and special place. Pair your hike, with a fine meal and perhaps a sample from our 3,000 bottle wine library. The Package includes: 2 nights in a deluxe lodge, breakfast, a 1/2 day flora and fauna guided hike, a copy of our best selling Island Lake Cookbook, $50 dollar lodge credit, free wifi and canoe rentals. From $419 Based on double occupancy.

Custom Hiking PackagesIsland Lake, the Cedar Valley and surrounding area have a network of well-maintained and spectacular hiking trails. Whether you are interested in an afternoon interpretive walk or an all day adventure - we can customize a package for you. For the adventurous, Heiko’s Trail is the signature trail in the Fernie area. The trail starts up Hartley Lake road and is approximately a 22-kilometer hike over high passes, mountain meadows, caves and waterfalls - ending at Island Lake Lodge.

Here at Island Lake we have 4 lodges. The Bear Lodge is the original lodge and now hosts Lunch and special functions in the summer. The Red Eagle is the second oldest and has 10 rooms, 2 common areas and a hot tub. Our newer lodges - The Tamarack and The Cedar each host 8 deluxe rooms and outdoor hot tubs.

Photo: Matt Kuhn

Booking info

The Tamarack Lodge Photo: Eric Poulin

Photo: Eric PoulinThe Red Eagle Lodge

Photo: Matt Kuhn

Green PhilosophyLast summer Island Lake was proud to be awarded a Gold rating in sustainability from Green Tourism Canada. Originating in the UK with a goal of bringing all various environmental and green certifications under one umbrella, Green Tourism has now become the largest sustainable certification program of its kind. The thorough evaluation studied many facets of lodge operations including: innovation; cultural and social integrity; water, waste and wildlife management; among many other topics. Part of the commitment to maintaining the Gold rating with GTC was for Island Lake to form a Green Team. The uptake from staff was impressive and resulted in a committed group with members covering almost all operational fields. The group’s initial project was to create the first of an annual Sustainability Report. This report includes an in-depth look into operations with short and long term goals for reducing the company’s environmental footprint and will be available for reading on the website. The team looks forward to more initiatives and continuing to engage staff and guests in maintaining the pristine environment that is Island Lake Lodge. Read more about our Green Philosophy

est. 1988

It’s never too early to book your next catski adventureClick here to check availability for winter 2015/16

Photo: Matt Kuhnwww.islandlakecatskiing.com

We hope to see you this summer

Islandlakelodge.com 1.888.422.8754