GIVE A FAQ
How does the lodge waitlist work?
Our current season’s guests get 2 weeks post their trip, to rebook their same seats for the following year. Because our rebooking rate is so high, we ask all interested parties to submit a waitlist form at the beginning of each season.
The waitlist for each season is posted on December 1st, 9:00 am PST, the year prior. For example, if you would like to try to book for the Dec 27/Mar28 season you will be able to submit a waitlist form on Dec. 1, 2026. When seats become available, we reach out to the waitlist based on a first come first serve basis and who has been waiting the longest. Please note that waitlist entries must be submitted annually and do not carry over from previous years.
It can take a few years of submitting for our waitlist before you receive the invite to book the lodge. We thank you in advance for your patience.
What is Baldface’s cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policies can be found further down on this page
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes. All guests must review and agree to Baldface’s Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement (the “Waiver”) as a condition of participating in any trip with us. If the Waiver is not completed, the individual will not be permitted to participate in the trip. The form of the Waiver can be reviewed here. By signing the Waiver, you waive your legal rights to sue or claim compensation following an accident. READ THE WAIVER CAREFULLY PRIOR TO BOOKING (OR CHOOSING TO PARTICIPATE IN A BOOKED TRIP)!
Please note that if you are booking for others, it is your responsibility to ensure you inform them of this waiver requirement and the terms of the Waiver.
How much snow does Baldface receive annually?
Approximately 500 inches (1,270 centimeters) of snow.
What is the average temperature?
The average daily temperature ranges from -8ºC to -3ºC (in the 18ºs F).
When is Baldface open?
Baldface winter season is open from December to mid-April. High season rates apply from January to mid-March. Some of our biggest snowfalls occur during the shoulder season (early January and late March).
What kind of snowcats do you have?
We have seven Pisten Bulley 400’s.
What mountain range will we be riding?
Baldface is located in the Selkirk range in British Columbia’s West Kootenay area. The highest peak we access tops out at 7,678 feet (2,340 meters).
What elevation does the lodge sit at?
6,750 feet (2,057 meters).
What is the longest run you access?
Nocturnal Mission: 3,100 vertical feet.
What is the total acreage Baldface has access to?
32,000 acres.
What is the average daily vertical I should expect to cover?
12,000-20,000 feet/day.
What certifications do your guides have?
All of our guides are certified with ACMG (Association of Canadian Mountain Guides) or CSGA (Canadian Ski Guide Association), and Wilderness First Responder, CAA (Canadian Avalanche Association).
What does pricing include?
Prices include transportation from Nelson, BC to the lodge, accommodations, medical insurance while at the lodge, all meals, safety equipment, skiing and snowboarding with our certified guides, and professional photos! Not included in the trip cost are: massage, ski rentals, retail purchases, alcoholic beverages, trip insurance. Any additional purchases will be added to your final invoice and paid for upon check-out.
Do I have to pay for the whole trip upon booking?
To confirm your reservation a 25% non-refundable booking fee is required before May 15th, 50% by May 15th and the balance is due on October 1st. Trips booked after October 1st must be paid in full. We accept MasterCard, Visa and American Express.
Are there refunds for cancellations?
If you must cancel less than 120 days prior to your trip, we cannot provide a refund. We recommend guests research travel insurance options before arriving.
Is it customary to leave a tip for our Baldface guides and staff?
If you have been well taken care of on your trip, tipping is customary in this industry and greatly appreciated by our staff. Our policy is to distribute all tips equally among staff unless specified by the guest. Tip envelopes are distributed at the lodge for cash, or you can use your credit card on file.
Does Baldface have a photography program?
Yes, a photographer will join your group in the snowcat one day. Each night a slideshow showcases the shots from the day. All guests receive complimentary shots of their trip via e-mail at the end of their trip.
Do I need to bring my own safety equipment?
We supply every guest with a radio, guest pack with probe and shovel in addition to an avalanche transceiver. If you prefer using your own pack, you can do so, however, you will need to use our transceiver and radio.
Aside from skiing, what do guests do?
Once at the lodge guests spend their days skiing and riding and their evenings enjoying gourmet meals, our full-service bar, massages, a wood-fired sauna and the company of old and new friends.
What time are we on-snow in the morning?
Skiers and snowboarders leave the lodge via twelve-person snowcats at 8:30 every morning. Depending on group abilities, guests should expect six to eight + runs per day covering 12,000 to 20,000 vertical feet. Two certified guides accompany each group.
Where do we stay?
Our timber-frame lodge houses the dining room, bar, massage and lounge areas plus 10 double-occupancy guest rooms with a shared bathroom. Seven timber-frame chalets, a short walk from the lodge, accommodate four guests each. Each chalet has two bedrooms with long twin beds and one bathroom. All beds at Baldface have goose-down comforters and high-quality cotton sheets.
Are meals included? Where do we eat?
All meals are included in the price of your trip. A breakfast buffet and gourmet dinner are served daily in the lodge, as well as hot soup and hearty appetizers when you return from skiing. Sandwiches, snacks, and water are provided in the snowcats. We are happy to accommodate any special dietary requirements.
What ability level do I need to be to ski or snowboard at Baldface?
Skiers and snowboarders should be comfortable on black diamond runs and also have experience in powder and trees.
What do I need to bring?
Your passport if crossing the border. Bring all your own outerwear including goggles, helmet, and winter walking boots. You may also want slippers and a bathing suit for the sauna. Water bottles are provided. Please leave your alcohol at home.
What do I wear on arrival day?
A warm jacket, snow boots, hat and gloves.
Is there a size or weight limit on my bags since we fly in on a helicopter?
Guests are restricted to a 50-pound (22 kg) soft-sided duffle bag so that the helicopter isn’t too heavy and can fly safely to the lodge. Please be sure that all of your clothing and equipment fits into your duffel. Ski and snowboard bags are NOT allowed on the helicopter.
Can I rent skis or snowboards at Baldface?
Fat powder skis are available for $60/day and snowboards are free. We do not rent ski or snowboard boots; please bring your own. Please note that the use of Baldface’s ski or snowboard equipment is subject to the equipment user reviewing and agreeing to our Equipment Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement (the “Equipment Waiver”) as a condition of using the equipment. If the Equipment Waiver is not completed, the guest will not be permitted to use the equipment. The Equipment Waiver can be reviewed here. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY if you intend to use any of our ski or snowboard equipment. If you do not agree with the terms of the Equipment Waiver, please bring your own equipment.
Is there internet or phone service at the lodge?
We have WIFI and intermittent cell service, depending on your service provider. Please respect the vacation vibes.
What is the best way to travel to Nelson?
Guests out of driving range arriving from the United States usually fly to Spokane, Washington and take a shuttle to Nelson. Canadian and European guests find it easier to fly through Cranbrook, BC or Kelowna, BC. A variety of alternative travel options are available in our Getting here page.
What time should I arrive at the Nelson airport?
1:30 p.m. for trips before February 15 and 2:30 p.m. for trips after February 15.
How do I get to Nelson for our helicopter transfer?
Once you have arrived in Nelson and found your way to Front Street, turn north – towards the lake – onto Hall Street then cross the railway tracks and turn left at the first stop sign onto Lakeside Drive. Continue for 1/2 mile and before you cross the bridge, you will see to your right the Norman Stibbs Airport (grey building with red roof). Pull into the parking lot, unload your gear, then park on either side of the road along the long term chain-link fence. Note: If you have extra gear or valuables, you may leave these at our town office for safekeeping.
At the Nelson airport, where do I park?
Once you have dropped off your bags, you may leave your vehicle in the overnight parking along the curved fence on the road just before the airport (Lakeside Dr.). Please note there is a height limit of 7ft for vehicles parked here.
How will I get up to the lodge?
On clear, sunny days, a 10-minute helicopter flight transports guests right to the lodge. If it is stormy, cloudy, or foggy, guests will travel across Kootenay Lake then up to the lodge by ground.
What if I am late?
Passengers who miss their scheduled departure times from Nelson will be charged a $250 late fee without exception. If you are going to be late, call 250-352-0006. In addition to the late fee, late guests may be responsible for an additional helicopter charter to the lodge. The helicopter flight will be scheduled at the earliest convenience of Baldface lodge and High Terrain Helicopters. If you are unexpectedly late, please call the office at 250-352-0006.
When will I be back in Nelson?
Guests will return to Nelson after the final day of skiing. December – February 14: In Nelson by 4:30 p.m. February 15 – April 15: In Nelson by 5:30 p.m- WEATHER DEPENDENT!
Can Baldface help with custom travel plans?
For those who require travel arrangements outside of our regular program please call the office.
250-352-0006
When was Baldface Lodge’s first season?
The idea of Baldface was conceived in 1998, with its 1st exploratory season and media release in 1999-2000. First official season: 2000-2001.
Are there any local ski areas worth checking out while I’m in the area?
Yes! Try Whitewater Mountain Resort (20 minutes) or Red Mountain (1 hour) from Nelson.