After being acquired by new management in 2007 and taking on investors that include the likes of Tanner Hall and Seth Morrison, Retallack Lodge underwent a full transformation into a freeskier’s paradise and is now regarded as a top-tier cat skiing operation by skiers everywhere.

Retallack is now regularly featured in the pages of the world’s leading ski magazines and big-hit ski films. Retallack: The Movie (2011), produced by Inspired Media and Red Bull Media House, stands out as a highlight. Furthermore, in 2009 and 2010, Retallack played host to the famed Red Bull Cold Rush, a new kind of competiton where skiers pushed the limits of what’s possible in a backcountry setting. And in the spring of 2014, Retallack opened its doors to the no-rules-apply Orage Masters, a rather bold move and yet another sign of the operation’s commitment to the sport we all know and love.

Hosting events of this magnitude certainly earns the operation major kudos, but this shouldn’t overshadow the basic principle that has solidified Retallack as a leader in the space: 100-percent dedication to its clients, both in the lodge and out in its vast, challenging and beautiful terrain.

Situated one hour north of Nelson, BC, the 11,000-square-foot luxury lodge sits in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains. While there are a handful of airports within close range, it’s recommended that guests utilize the two nearest international airports in Kelowna, BC, and Spokane, WA. From Spokane it’s four hours to the north, and from Kelowna you’re looking at a five-hour journey. Hardly a challenge when you consider the goods awaiting at the finish line.

Perhaps best known for its burly steeps, Retallack boasts everything from expansive, open bowls to mind-blowing glades and mouthwatering pillow lines. The majority of terrain caters to advanced skiers. They’ll tell you it breaks down as such: 20 percent moderate-gentle slopes, 45 percent “fun” steeps between 20 and 35 degrees, and the remaining 35 percent beyond 35 degrees and classified as very steep.

The operating area spans 10,000 acres across three main mountain peaks, Reco, Wishful and Texas. Typical drop- off points are perched between 7,000 and 8,500 feet. From there, you’ll enjoy consistent fall-line skiing, with some runs providing as much as 4,200 feet of vert, though the average run checks in at approximately 1,800 feet. The snow is never in shortage, and one can expect anywhere from eight to 15 pow-filled runs in a day.

While in the alpine, you’ll soak up tips and knowledge from the highly experienced guides that accompany you. Retallack operates two cats for 24 guests, and each group has its own lead guide, tail guide and driver.

When your legs can’t take it anymore, it’s back down to the lodge where après bevies and hors d’oeuvres await. Then kick back in the living room, keep the stoke alive in the game room or take advantage of the hot tub, sauna or the resident massage therapist prior to your gourmet dinner. And we mean gourmet. These guys are not messing around in the kitchen. When the day’s done, grab a brew (or a tray full of Lemon Drops) in the bar room.

Whether you’re looking for a rugged experience or a lavish one, Retallack will deliver. The incredibly kind, hard-working and animated staff will provide you the best care, and rest assured, they’re all true mountain folk, just like you.

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